Okinawa｜Worth the Journey: The Beauty of the Kuroshio at Churaumi Aquarium

After the 1975 International Ocean Exposition, Okinawa built its first aquarium. It underwent a major renovation in 2002, resulting in the current design we see today. Centered around the Kuroshio Current, the exhibits showcase marine life from shallow waters to the deep sea, from whale sharks to coral reefs, using light projections in the tanks to create mesmerizing visual effects. This visit comes a decade after my last one. Although I’ve visited other aquariums in Japan during this time, the curatorial approach here is unique. Churaumi Aquarium focuses on the ecosystems around Okinawa, making the experience feel more intimate and relatable. One highlight is the Kuroshio Sea tank, where you can watch an 8.6-meter-long whale shark and manta rays gracefully swim together. Whether you’re relaxing on a bench in the viewing area or enjoying an immersive dining experience nearby, the sight is truly moving. Additionally, the Turtle House and the Dugong House offer close-up views of these adorable creatures and their behaviors. If you’re not driving, it’s recommended to stay overnight in Nago. This allows you to visit the aquarium early in the morning and return to Naha in the afternoon. 📍Address: 424 Ishikawa, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0206, Japan 🚗 Take Bus No. 120 to Nago Terminal and transfer to the Memorial Park Bus, or take the No. 117 express bus directly from Naha to Churaumi Aquarium. The journey takes over two hours.