The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is the island’s most famous attraction and one of the largest aquariums in the world. Its centrepiece, the vast Kuroshio Sea tank, lets visitors stand before whale sharks and giant manta rays gliding through millions of litres of water.

The Kuroshio Sea Tank

Time your visit around the feeding sessions, when staff explain the behaviour of the whale sharks and rays. The acrylic viewing panel is one of the biggest of its kind, and a quieter café behind the tank lets you watch the fish drift by over a drink.

Ocean Expo Park

The aquarium sits inside the much larger Ocean Expo Park, which includes a dolphin show, a tropical botanical garden, a recreated Okinawan village and the lovely Emerald Beach. Budget at least half a day to enjoy the whole complex without rushing.

Getting There

The aquarium is in the north of the main island, roughly two hours from Naha. Renting a car is the most flexible option, but express buses and tour packages run daily from the city if you prefer not to drive.

Churaumi is the highlight of northern Okinawa and pairs naturally with a coastal drive past the island’s famous beaches and viewpoints.

More Okinawa Travel Guides

• Shuri Castle and Old Naha: A Ryukyu Kingdom Walk
• Kokusai-dori: Walking Naha’s International Street
• Okinawa Beaches and Island Day Trips

See our Okinawa Travel Guide for the full overview. Planning the whole trip? Visit The Complete Okinawa Guide for every guide and hotel in one place.