Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Kyushu-Okinawa Region
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, located within Ocean Expo Park in Okinawa, Japan, is renowned for its impressive exhibits that faithfully reproduce the diverse marine life of the Okinawan sea. It features the Kuroshio Sea Tank, which was the largest aquarium tank worldwide until 2005, offering visitors a mesmerizing view of whale sharks, manta rays, and other large sea creatures. The aquarium's name, chosen by public vote, reflects its mission: "Chura" means beautiful or graceful in Okinawan, and "Umi" means ocean in Japanese. Accredited as a Registered Museum by Japan's Ministry of Education, it is a leader in marine conservation and research, notably pioneering the successful long-term breeding of whale sharks and manta rays. The aquarium opened in 2002, replacing the older Okinawa Ocean Expo Aquarium, and has since become a major tourist attraction with millions of visitors annually. Its exhibits include interactive and educational programs, such as environmental learning with sea turtles, and it continuously updates its displays to showcase rare and bioluminescent species. The aquarium blends cutting-edge technology with Okinawan cultural appreciation, making it a unique destination for marine enthusiasts and families alike.
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Tip: Visit during the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Advance ticket purchase is recommended during peak tourist seasons to ensure entry. The aquarium offers annual passes which provide good value for repeat visitors. Check the official website for current opening hours and special event schedules. Educational programs, especially those involving sea turtles, are popular and may require prior reservation for groups. Note that some facilities like the dolphin studio are currently not in use due to maintenance.
Interesting facts
- •The Kuroshio Sea Tank was the world's largest aquarium tank until 2005.
- •The aquarium was the first in the world to successfully breed two generations of whitetip reef sharks, earning the first Koga Award from JAZA in 1988.
- •A whale shark at the aquarium has lived in captivity for over 29 years, one of the longest records worldwide.
- •The aquarium's name "Churaumi" combines Okinawan and Japanese words meaning "beautiful ocean."
- •It has continuously expanded its collection to over 1,400 species, including rare bioluminescent fish.
- •The aquarium pioneered captivity and breeding of large manta rays starting from the late 1970s.
History
The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium traces its origins to the 1975 Expo '75 held at Ocean Expo Park, where the original Okinawa Ocean Expo Aquarium was established in 1976.
Designed by Fumihiko Maki, it featured the world's largest main tank at that time.
The aquarium was a pioneer in breeding large marine species such as whale sharks and manta rays, with significant milestones including the first successful long-term captivity of a manta ray from 1988 to 2000 and a whale shark living over 29 years in captivity.
Due to facility deterioration and a decline in visitors after the bubble economy collapse, a new aquarium was constructed and opened in 2002, designed by Okinawan architect Yukifusa Kokuba.
Since then, visitor numbers have surged, and the aquarium has continued to expand its educational and research initiatives.
Place Guide
Kuroshio Sea Tank2002
The centerpiece of the aquarium, this massive tank holds 7,500 cubic meters of water and houses whale sharks, manta rays, and many tropical fish, offering a spectacular underwater panorama through its huge acrylic glass panel.
Deep Sea Exploration Room2026 (renovation)
A recently renovated exhibition area showcasing deep-sea creatures and the latest research on deep ocean biodiversity, including bioluminescent species rarely seen by the public.
Sea Turtle Breeding and Environmental Learning CenterSince 2007
An educational facility focusing on the ecology of sea turtles, offering interactive programs for elementary school students and visitors to learn about marine conservation.
Contact
Phone: 0980-48-3748