The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world. In the Okinawan dialect, "chura" means "beautiful," and the light, water quality, and transparency of the aquarium's water tanks have been carefully modified to be as close to the natural sea as possible, down to the smallest details, in order to reflect the beauty of the Okinawan sea and its rich nature.
In the Journey to a Coral Reef section, the coral reefs of Okinawa have been diligently recreated. There is no roof on the tanks here, so visitors can closely observe the Okinawan sea where natural light pours down on the coral as well as the tropical fish that live there. It is sometimes said that the most intriguing part of this aquarium is the giant, 7,500-square-meter tank called The Kuroshio Sea. The highlight of this tank is the sight of many kinds of sea creatures swimming about, including whale sharks and manta rays. Make sure also not to miss the dolphin shows at the Okichan Theater, sea turtles gracefully gliding about at the Sea Turtle Pool, and the manatees at the Manatee Pool, which are said to be the inspiration for tales of mermaids.
The Ocean Expo Park Area is also just outside, at which a planetarium, a beautiful sunset at the Sunset Square, and the green water and white sand of the beautiful Emerald Beach can all be enjoyed. With its wide variety of attractions, visitors are sure to enjoy a full day of fun at the aquarium while indulging in the nature of Okinawa.

Photographs provided by the Ocean Expo Park・Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.