Churaumi Aquarium

Located within Ocean Expo Park on the main island’s northwestern coast, Churaumi Aquarium is consistently ranked among the best aquariums in Japan. Its star attraction is the massive Kuroshio Tank—one of the largest in the world—where whale sharks, manta rays and schools of tropical fish glide through waters that mimic the nearby Kuroshio Current【586185565739439†L67-L77】. The three‑storey facility begins with an open‑air pool showcasing living coral, followed by tanks displaying rare deep‑water species【586185565739439†L82-L98】. Visitors can watch feeding shows and learn about marine conservation【586185565739439†L106-L138】.

Getting there: buses run from Naha and Nago to the aquarium; the journey takes 2–2.5 hours. Drivers can take the Okinawa Expressway via Exit 3 (Kyoda) and follow signs to Ocean Expo Park【586185565739439†L106-L138】. Consider combining your visit with nearby attractions like Emerald Beach and the tropical arboretum.