Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

I’m torn. This was a really great aquarium. Lots of exhibits and information about the animals. I really loved seeing the exhibits of the goblin shark and the great white at the end. Plus all the information in the shark area was really cool. It was so impressive all the research this aquarium is involved in and all their accomplishments. Seeing that this is a bigger tank than the one in Osaka, I was expecting the animals to have more space but it still felt very small for such a large whale shark. Seeing the live tuna was really cool though. Also, the free turtle exhibit felt wrong. So many turtles swimming in a tiny tank with nowhere to rest just going around and around. It was really heartbreaking. The bigger one was pretty packed too. I’m am from Florida and have encountered wild manatees many times and they were always much bigger than the ones in these tanks. That was also concerning. I have mixed feelings about animals in captivity but I think it serves a purpose for conservation in the long run but I think we have the responsibility to make them as comfortable as possible. I did not see the dolphins so I can’t speak to that.

Stunning! We expected our experience to not be the best because of the crowds but despite it being busy it was completely fine. It never felt too crowded and there was plenty of space to see everything. The whale shark and manta rays are definitely the highlight and 100% worth seeing especially for the cheap admission. Make sure you check out the overhead view of the huge tank too. Other than that there is still lots to see! We went in the afternoon and we got to see the sunset at a nearby beach after our visit which I highly recommend if you time it right.

Really magnificent place as there are lots of sea species and the most popular will be the big whale shark which keep swimming in circles. It’s fully shelters and air conditioned, and it’s wheelchair friendly. We spent around 1-1.5 hours in the aquarium. I think our ticket allows us to go visit the dolphin and manatee pool which we didn’t as they were outdoors. Recommended to come before lunch time as it was really crowded when I left around 12ish. There’s quite a lot of parking lots but some are really far away. There’s handicap parking.

World’s largest singular tank enclosure. Lots of active and lively displays and exhibits. Tons to see. Spent about 3 hours there. Ate at the cafe it was good a bit pricey. Gift shop was huge.

Really fascinating place, well worth a visit! It has a rich collection and detailed information about the local sea flora, which is presented in an engaging and entertaining way. The large fish tanks really are impressive! 🐠🦈🐡 Great for adults and kids alike!