3 Hours of Excitement Watching Whale Sharks in the Giant Tank
About this spot
A representative aquarium of Japan, located within the Marine Expo Park on the northern Okinawa Main Island. The highlight is the giant tank called the "Kuroshio Sea." Beyond the world's largest acrylic panel, whale sharks and manta rays glide gracefully, surrounded by schools of shimmering fish. The exhibitions are structured to trace Okinawa's seas in order of depth—from the sunlit shallow coral reefs through the Kuroshio Sea to the lightless deep sea. Displays that captivate children are abundant, such as the "Coral Sea" tank where sunlight streams in, and touch pools where you can gently touch starfish and sea cucumbers. In the hall before the main tank, visitors often sit mesmerized, losing all sense of time. No matter how many times you visit, you discover something new—Okinawa sightseeing's crowning jewel.
Tips
The ticket counter and exhibitions are least crowded right after opening, while the area in front of the Kuroshio Sea tank becomes increasingly crowded as noon approaches. The facility is air-conditioned, so bringing a light cardigan is reassuring. The Marine Expo Park is expansive with considerable walking distance from the parking lot to the entrance, so allow extra time. The park also offers free areas such as dolphin shows.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 3 hours. Arriving right after opening lets you view the main tank from the front without crowds.
Access & map
〒905-0206 Okinawa Prefecture, Kunigami District, Motobu Town, Ishikawa 424
Model course featuring this spot
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Okinawa
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Explore features & model courses
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