Churaumi Aquarium | Okinawa's Popular Spot Wrapped in the Mysteries of the Sea

A world-class experience! Be amazed by the massive tank where whale sharks and manta rays swim. "Churaumi Aquarium" is a gigantic aquarium located within the "Ocean Expo Park" in Motobu Town, northern Okinawa Island 🐋. It features exhibits that faithfully recreate the Okinawan sea, offering visitors the chance to truly experience the "living sea of Okinawa" 🌊. 📍【Location】 424 Ishikawa, Motobu Town, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture (inside Ocean Expo Park) ※ About 2 hours by car from Naha 🚌 (highway buses and tour buses are also available) 🕰【Opening Hours】 Regular season: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM (last admission at 5:30 PM) ※ Extended hours during peak seasons. Open year-round except for New Year's 🎍 🎫【Admission Fees】 Adults: ¥2,180 Middle and high school students: ¥1,440 Elementary school students: ¥710 Children under 6: Free 🐠【Highlights】 🔹 Kuroshio Sea (Main Tank) → Be awed by the sight of whale sharks and reef manta rays swimming gracefully through one of the world's largest acrylic panels…‼️ 🔹 Coral Sea Area → A faithful recreation of Okinawa's beautiful shallow seas, complete with stunning light reflections ✨ 🔹 Tropical fish, deep-sea creatures, and other Okinawa-specific exhibits 🌈 → Discover unique marine life you won't find anywhere else! 🔹 Dolphin Show, Manatee Pavilion & Sea Turtle Pavilion (Free Zones) → Enjoy free facilities within Ocean Expo Park! The dolphin show is especially popular 🐬 ✨【Recommended Itinerary】 1️⃣ Arrive early and relax in front of the main tank 2️⃣ Explore other facilities in the park (like the Tropical Dream Center) in the afternoon 3️⃣ Return to the tank before sunset to enjoy the different lighting atmosphere 💡 🌟【Tips】 ・The aquarium is heavily air-conditioned, so bring a light jacket for comfort ・The café "Ocean Blue" near the tank is extremely popular for its stunning views ☕️ ・On your way back, consider stopping by "Nago Pineapple Park" or "Kouri Island" for a delightful detour 🍍