Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (Okinawa) – Access, Hours & Fees

This aquarium was built in Ocean Expo Park for the International Maritime Exposition, held in Okinawa in 1975. Here you can experience the powerful presence of the living creatures that live in the beautiful sea of Okinawa.

Be drawn into the world of the whale shark and manta ray

The whale shark must be the most famous thing to see here. Watching the whale shark swim around calmly with manta rays and many other sea creatures makes it look as though a slice of the Okinawa sea has been cut out and brought here. Don’t miss seeing these impressive creatures at meal time! This aquarium is pouring a lot of effort into whale shark breeding. This was actually the first aquarium to breed the manta ray successfully. Be sure to thank the hardworking research staff if you see them!

They grow coral from Okinawa

There are a variety of corals growing here that protect and nurture the sea creatures. You can learn about the beauty and importance of coral reefs in an exhibition area located immediately after the entrance to the aquarium. The coral here spawn and reproduce, just as they would in the sea.

Enter after 4pm for a discount

This famous aquarium is popular with school groups and overseas tourists, so it is often crowded. For those who want to relax and enjoy this aquarium we recommend entering after 4pm. It is a little cheaper than during the day and there are far fewer people. If your flight arrives into Okinawa in the afternoon, you could use the after 4pm ticket to visit here on your first day. You can see the tanks while sitting in the restaurants and cafes, so if it is less crowded this will be even more enjoyable. The evening might be the best time to visit this aquarium.

Getting here

 

Admission Tickets, Price

Fees General After 4:00 p.m. Ticket One-year pass
Adult 1,850 yen 1,290 yen 3,700 yen
High school student 1,230 yen 860 yen 2,460 yen
Primary & middle school student 610 yen 430 yen 1,220 yen
Child under 6 free free

Opening Hours & Calendar

Hours
Oct – Feb 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Last entry 5:30 p.m.
Mar – Sep 8:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Last entry 7:00 p.m.
Days closed
First Wednesday and Thursday in December

※ Please check the official website upon visiting.

Official website

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

FAQs

Nursing Lounge

The aquarium has two nursing rooms for babies. Hot water is available for infant formula.

Coin lockers

Coin-operated lockers are available in the aquarium.

Baby stroller rental service

Baby strollers are available free of charge.

Wheelchair rental service

Wheelchairs are available free of charge.