Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium showing marine life and interior views
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium which includes general coastal views and island views
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium featuring marine life and interior views
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium which includes interior views
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium featuring marine life

Marvel at huge whale sharks in one of the world’s largest aquariums at this marine centre that recreates the aquatic environment of Okinawa’s waters.

Take the family on an unforgettable trip to Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, a vast undersea world teeming with whale sharks, rays, corals and tropical fish. Watch aquatic shows, learn about Okinawa’s marine life and touch a starfish.

The aquarium has 77 tanks spread out over four floors. Start on the fourth floor by looking down into the large, open Coral Sea Tank. Try to spot some of the sea creatures that live there, including spanner crabs that spend a lot of time buried in the sand. Visit the Touch Pool on the third floor and reach out and touch sea cucumbers and starfish.

The aquarium is famous for its Kuroshio Sea Tank located through the second floor to the first floor. The enormous container is 89 feet (27 metres) wide, 115 feet (35 metres) long and 33 feet (10 metres) deep. Through the large acrylic glass panel, you can see whale sharks, zebra sharks and manta rays.

Learn about life at the bottom of the ocean by visiting the exhibits on the first floor. Observe creatures that glow in the dark and see the giant squid specimen that is more than 20 feet (6.35 metres) in length. Throughout the day, you can listen to free informative talks about ocean life, and watch sharks and rays being fed.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is open every day except the first Wednesday and the following day of December. Admission charges apply with discounts for a group with more than 20 people and reduced cover after 4 p.m. After your visit, watch a free dolphin show at the nearby Okichan Theatre and view more porpoises at the Dolphin Lagoon. Visit the aquarium’s official website for details of fees and events.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is located in the Ocean Expo Park complex within the Motobu District. It is a 2-hour drive from Naha Airport, and you can park in the on-site free lot. You can also reach the aquarium by bus, which takes about 2.5 hours from the airport.

Plan a trip to see Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Okinawa NaHaNa Hotel & Spa

Okinawa NaHaNa Hotel & Spa

4 out of 5
Naha City Centre
per person
2 Sept - 7 Sept
found 9 hours ago
Additional charges may apply
Return direct flight included
London (LON) to Naha (OKA)
8.8/10 Excellent! (2,147 reviews)
The area is great, the staff was kind and amenities are all good as well. Only thing was a bad sewage smell from the shower room drain. We had to run the vent fan all the time.

Reviewed on 29 Jul 2025

Okinawa Prince Hotel Ocean View Ginowan

Okinawa Prince Hotel Ocean View Ginowan

4 out of 5
Mashiki
per person
25 Oct - 31 Oct
found 6 hours ago
Additional charges may apply
Return direct flight included
London (LON) to Naha (OKA)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (480 reviews)
no beach access, noisy road was disturbing during weekend at night. Staff was very engaged although limited English.

Reviewed on 11 Jul 2025

HOTEL SANSUI NAHA Ryukyu Onsen Naminoue-No-Yu

HOTEL SANSUI NAHA Ryukyu Onsen Naminoue-No-Yu

3.5 out of 5
Naha City Centre
per person
25 Oct - 31 Oct
found 6 hours ago
Additional charges may apply
Return direct flight included
London (LON) to Naha (OKA)
8.6/10 Excellent! (744 reviews)
We booked this hotel as a quick one night stay before taking the ferry north. The hotel itself had lovely amenities like the onsen. It was clean, peaceful and relaxing. There was one pool we could use, but the rooftop pool cost $45 for each adult and $20 for each kid. So for a family of 4 quite expensive (and not advertised as an extra fee during the booking process). Our room was also quite small. The area around the hotel was shady for a family. We zipped out to eat dinner but my husband walked to the family mart a few blocks away and said it definitely had red light district vibes). The staff was lovely and helpful.

Reviewed on 26 May 2025

Popular places to visit

Ocean Expo Memorial Park showing general coastal views, a square or plaza and a fountain

Ocean Expo Memorial Park

Visit the biggest aquarium on the island and immerse yourself in the enthralling history of Okinawa at this huge coastal park.

Ocean Expo Memorial Park
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Experience the wide array of family-friendly activities on one of Ocean Expo Park’s best beaches, which has three separate areas and an aquarium to explore.

Emerald Beach
Nakijin Castle

Nakijin Castle

Find out about the history of Imadomari when you spend time at Nakijin Castle. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.

Nakijin Castle

Okichan Theater

Watch dolphins leap and spin from the water or go eye-to-eye with turtles and manatees at this scenic park on the edge of the East China Sea.

Okichan Theater

Top Hotel Deals

The Orion Hotel Motobu Resort & Spa

The Orion Hotel Motobu Resort & Spa

4.5 out of 5
148-1 Bise, Motobu, Okinawa-ken
The Orion Hotel Motobu Resort & Spa
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Royal View Hotel Churaumi

3 out of 5
938, Ishikawa, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Motobu, Okinawa-ken
Royal View Hotel Churaumi
Yukurina Resort Okinawa Umikaji

Yukurina Resort Okinawa Umikaji

3 out of 5
799-2 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa
Yukurina Resort Okinawa Umikaji
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Wisteria Condominium Resort

3 out of 5
Yamakawa 973, Motobu, Okinawa-ken
Wisteria Condominium Resort
Yukurina Resort Okinawa

Yukurina Resort Okinawa

3 out of 5
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Yukurina Resort Okinawa
CINEMA RESORTS 1

CINEMA RESORTS 1

3 out of 5
752-5 Aza-ishikawa, Kunigami-gun, Motobu, Okinawa
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Ocean View Terrace BISE 1F

Ocean View Terrace BISE 1F

3 out of 5
212-1 Bise, Motobu, Okinawa
Ocean View Terrace BISE 1F
CINEMA RESORTS 3

CINEMA RESORTS 3

3 out of 5
751-13 Ishikawa, Motobu, Okinawa
CINEMA RESORTS 3
CINEMA RESORTS 4

CINEMA RESORTS 4

2 out of 5
751-4, Ishikawa, Motobu, Motobu, Okinawa
CINEMA RESORTS 4
See all 710 properties in Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

At Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming in nearby crystal-clear waters and indulging in relaxing spa treatments. The aquarium itself is renowned for its impressive displays of sharks and other marine life, making it a must-visit for both nature enthusiasts and families. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement that this iconic attraction has to offer.

Shopping

At Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, you can visit Okinawa Hanasaki Marche, a vibrant shopping centre just 559m away, offering a mix of entertainment and local goods. If you're up for a drive, Michi-no-Eki Ogimi, 8.7km away, and JA Farmers' Market Yanbaru, 5.6km away, provide unique local experiences.

Recreation

At Bel Beach Golf Club, indulge in a round of golf amidst luxury surroundings, just 2.5km from Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium. For serenity, visit Yaedake Sakura Forest Park, only 2.5km away, where you can relax in nature. Nago Castle Historical Park, 6.2km from the aquarium, offers a peaceful retreat steeped in history.

Adventure

Embark on the Mount Awa Trail, a scenic hiking adventure located 3.7km from Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, enjoy the thrill of karting at Kukuru Yomitan Circuit, situated 13.7km away, for a dose of adrenaline amidst adventure vibes.

Nightlife

Experience the wonders of the Oceanic Culture Museum Planetarium, just 186m from Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, enjoying family-friendly entertainment under the stars. For adventure, visit Yambaru Adventure Field, 10.6km away, where arcade thrills await for a fun-filled evening with loved ones.

Find the best attractions near Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium offers a delightful array of attractions, including stunning beaches, unique rock formations, and a modern bridge that enhances the scenic views. Visitors can enjoy outdoor experiences in this beautiful setting, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts. For convenience, consider nearby hotels for your stay, ensuring easy access to the aquarium and surrounding points of interest in Motobu, Okinawa.

  • Arashiyama Observation Deck: Perched 5.0km from the aquarium, this lookout offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Ideal for romantics and adventurers alike, you can immerse yourself in nature and relish the serene atmosphere.
  • Emerald Beach: Located a mere 186m from the aquarium, Emerald Beach boasts stunning turquoise waters and soft sands. Perfect for a relaxing day by the sea, it’s a delightful spot for sunbathing and swimming.
  • Ocean Expo Memorial Park: Just 124m away, this cultural centre presents an enriching experience. Explore exhibitions that highlight Okinawa's marine life and culture, making it a fantastic addition to your itinerary.

Best time to go to Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

The best time to visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February64.6°F (18.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March66.7°F (19.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April70.2°F (21.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May74.7°F (23.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July82.9°F (28.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August83.3°F (28.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September82.0°F (27.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October77.9°F (25.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December66.7°F (19.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium

To save money during your visit to Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, consider travelling in January, February, or November when accommodation prices dip. Book your hotel about a month in advance, ideally on a Wednesday for the best rates. Avoid Saturdays, which are pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and hotel type, including eco-friendly options. Look out for last-minute deals marked by a green label. Combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings through Expedia can also yield significant savings, ensuring a more affordable trip overall.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save on costs by combining your hotel reservation for the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.