Complete Guide to Ocean Expo Park | Highlights, Travel Time, and Access
This time Okinawa ・ Motobu Town of" Ocean Expo Park " A thorough guide!
The very popular " Churaumi Aquarium " In addition to Outdoor theater for dolphin shows, botanical garden, sea turtle pool etc. There are various facilities within the park, so we will introduce some of the spots within the park.
How to access the site and the travel time Please refer to the following for the next Okinawa Plan your sightseeing schedule!
table of contents
- 1 What is Okinawa's Ocean Expo Park like?
- 2 Basic information about Ocean Expo Park
- 3 Highlights and main spots of Ocean Expo Park
- 4 Recommended activities around Ocean Expo Park
- 5 Top 10 Activities Around Ocean Expo Park
- 6 Ocean Expo Park is a tourist hub in northern Okinawa where you can enjoy the whole day
- 7 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
What is Okinawa's Ocean Expo Park like?
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PIXTA
Ocean Expo Park
teeth,
Okinawa main island
・
Motobu Town
A national park located along the coast
is!
It was erected in 1976 (Showa 51), the year after the Okinawa International Ocean Exposition held in 1975 (Showa 50).
Within the park, there is one of the prefecture's most popular tourist spots,
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
" In addition to
Botanical gardens where you can see tropical and subtropical plants, planetarium, beach and coastal promenade
etc.
.
There are plenty of facilities where you can enjoy unique Okinawan experiences!
The garden covers an area of 71.8 hectares.
.
Because it is so vast, when visiting multiple spots,
Park sightseeing bus
It is recommended to use the following.
☆☆☆ Free Benefits ☆☆☆ ・Photo and video shooting by staff (unlimited number of photos) ・Fully reserved instructor ・Free towel rental (shampoo and body soap provided) ・Fish feeding experience ・All additional rental equipment is free (wetsuits, etc.) ★Private tour for one group! A dedicated instructor will guide each group.
This is a half-day boat snorkeling tour that departs from Motobu Port near the Churaumi Aquarium. Access is excellent, as the port is just 10 minutes away from the aquarium! This is a premium snorkeling tour on a catamaran boat that can accommodate up to 30 people and is strong enough to withstand rocking, a rare sight in the northern area! You can experience the beautiful underwater world that can only be experienced by boat entry, which you can't experience by beach entry.
Thank you for visiting the diving shop TI.OCEAN. We offer diving tours for beginners, including introductory diving in the waters off the coast of Motobu, Sesoko Island, and Minna Island. Croissant Island on Minna Island is home to beautiful coral reefs with pure white sand, vibrant blue waters, and exceptional transparency.
[Very popular] Participants from 1 to 70 years old can participate! A private boat snorkeling plan limited to one group! "Private Snorkeling Tour" You can board a private boat to travel to the snorkeling point and swim at your own pace while watching the corals and colorful fish. A private snorkeling tour is a private experience, so you will not be sharing it with other customers.
Basic information about Ocean Expo Park
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PIXTA
Below,
Basic information about Ocean Expo Park
Introducing.
We have posted information on how to get there and the time required for sightseeing!
1. How to get to Ocean Expo Park
-
How to get there by car (rental car)
Naha Airport → Okinawa Expressway → Ocean Expo Park (travel time: approximately 2 hours) -
By express bus
Naha Airport (Express Bus No. 117) → Memorial Park/Royal View Hotel Churaumi (Travel time: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes)
The fare is around 2,000 yen one way.
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2. Estimated time required for Ocean Expo Park
If you want to fully enjoy Ocean Expo Park, you'll want to allow 3 to 6 hours!
Spend plenty of time at the main attraction, the Churaumi Aquarium, and then visit other spots that interest you.
If you want to spend the whole day sightseeing from morning to night, there are about 7 spots to visit.
.
If you want to focus on sightseeing in either the morning or afternoon,
Aim for 4 to 5 spots
It will be smoother if you do this!
Address: 424 Ishikawa, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture
Highlights and main spots of Ocean Expo Park
In the following,
Highlights and main spots at Ocean Expo Park
Introducing!
There are many attractive spots, including the Churaumi Aquarium.
1. Churaumi Aquarium
Okinawa main island
One of the most popular tourist spots in
is!
With the theme of "Encountering the Okinawan Sea," the museum displays a wide range of exhibits, focusing on creatures found in the waters around Okinawa and the Nansei Islands.
The biggest attraction is the huge 7,500 cubic meter aquarium, the Kuroshio Sea!
It is a spectacular sight to see creatures far larger than humans, such as whale sharks and Alfred manta rays, swimming leisurely.
A wide variety of exhibits, including colorful tropical fish, coral reefs, and deep-sea creatures Check out the other attractions and experience the tropical ocean world to the fullest!
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2. Okichan Theater & Dolphin Lagoon
Free facilities located near the Churaumi Aquarium
is!
You can enjoy a dynamic dolphin show.
.
The attached "
Dolphin Lagoon
"In
Dolphin feeding experience available for a fee
.
Why not get up close and personal with the adorable dolphins before or after the show and feel the power of these sea creatures?
3. Sea Turtle and Manatee Pools
Located opposite the Churaumi Aquarium,
Sea turtle and manatee exhibit
is!
Both facilities are free to enter, and you can see sea turtles and manatees both above and below the water.
.
Don't miss the manatee feeding scene, which takes place two to three times a day!
Once you see the cute sight of manatees skillfully using their fins to stuff food into their mouths, you'll never forget it.
.
After touring both facilities, we went back to Churaumi Aquarium. Re-entry is permitted only on the same day is.
Make sure to plan your sightseeing schedule well and enjoy the beautiful underwater world of Okinawa to your heart's content.
4. Tropical and Subtropical Urban Greening Botanical Garden
A botanical garden located near the south gate of Ocean Expo Park
is!
The Plant Exhibition Area is home to over 400 species of tropical and subtropical plants, and visitors can enjoy the unique trees and flowers while feeling the sea breeze.
There are plenty of picturesque views that are typical of tropical Okinawa, such as rows of palm trees and banyan trees. is.
In "Banco Forest," Play equipment and craft experiences that make use of nature This makes it a perfect place to bring small children!
Address: 424 Ishikawa, Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture
5. Oceanic Culture Museum Planetarium
This facility was built during the Okinawa International Ocean Expo!
An exhibition focusing on the maritime peoples of Asia and Oceania, including Okinawa
is being carried out.
The displays of actual canoes used in each region are very impressive!
In the attached planetarium,
In addition to a video projecting 140 million stars, there will also be programs related to Okinawan stars, folk tales, and science education.
It has been done.
Check the screening schedule in advance and tour the theater at the time of the program you want to see!
6. Emerald Beach
Beaches near Churaumi Aquarium
is!
The Y-shaped beach is divided into three beaches: "Play Beach," "Relaxation Beach," and "View Beach," and you can enjoy the contrast between the beautiful blue ocean and the coral sand at each beach.
The adjacent shop has coin lockers and also offers rental of swim rings and rubber boats!
Another great thing is that you can use the showers for free.
Why not drop by while strolling around Ocean Expo Park and enjoy a truly tropical swim?
7. Tropical Dream Center
A flower viewing spot displaying approximately 2,000 species of orchids
is!
You can tour the five greenhouses and see orchids and other flowers and fruit trees collected from tropical and subtropical regions.
Surrounded by tropical colors and rich, sweet scents, you can enjoy a spectacular tropical experience!
The stone buildings reminiscent of ancient ruins found throughout the facility, along with the colorful plants, are great photo spots to check out.
Of particular note is the observation platform, which is the symbol of the facility.
.
If you go up, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Ocean Expo Park, and if you look up from the outside, you can enjoy a view that looks like an old castle from a storybook!
8. Okinawa Local Museum
A spot that recreates an Okinawan village from the Ryukyu Kingdom era is!
Visitors can see private homes in various areas of the prefecture, sacred sites (utaki), elevated storehouses for storing food, and the Omoro Botanical Gardens, which houses a variety of Okinawan plants.
The sights are compactly arranged on the grounds, and there are plenty of areas where you can experience Ryukyu culture!
Experience craftsmanship and Sanshin playing. There are also several programs available that allow you to experience Ryukyu culture It is also recommended to participate with children.
Walk and experience the good old Ryukyu world, Okinawa Why not create some memorable sightseeing memories?
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Recommended activities around Ocean Expo Park
What kind of activities can you enjoy around Ocean Expo Park?
below
Recommended plan information
Please use this as a reference when planning your stroll around Ocean Expo Park!
1. Shisa making and painting experience
[Take home the most moving memories and souvenirs of Okinawa] ★Great! Last minute reservations accepted ★Free cancellations on the day are also available! Highly rated and popular restaurant [1 minute by car from Churaumi Aquarium] Located on the main road, all seats overlook the ocean, in a bright and cheerful restaurant filled with smiles, and a comfortable, air-conditioned space with the sound of the sanshin playing. There are also tatami rooms, diaper changing stations, and toys available, perfect for families with children.
[Take home a memorable souvenir of Okinawa's No. 1 experience] [Last-minute reservations accepted] Free cancellation on the day. Highly rated and popular restaurant [1 minute by car from Churaumi Aquarium] All seats are located along the main street, overlooking the ocean. A bright and cheerful restaurant filled with smiles, with the sound of the sanshin playing in the air-conditioned room. [Plan details] Once you have chosen your favorite male and female shisa pair, you can have them accompanied by a stand and accessories.
[Take home the most moving memories and souvenirs of Okinawa] Take-home on the day! Shisa making experience ★ Great! Last minute reservations are OK ★ Free cancellation on the day is also OK! Highly rated popular store [1 minute by car from Churaumi Aquarium] Along the main street [Plan details] Choose a sample Shisa from the many Shisa and make it. Shisa drinking beer
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2. Snorkeling
Thank you for visiting the diving shop TI.OCEAN. We offer introductory diving and snorkeling tours tailored to beginners. Gorilla Chop Beach is a popular swimming spot on Okinawa's main island! It features a large rock that looks like a gorilla is chopping, and is home to a variety of coral reefs and a plethora of fish.
☆☆One child under 3 years old can join for free☆☆ *Please show proof of date of birth. ☆☆Private group tour☆☆One instructor will guide you per family or group. ☆☆Participants from 1 year old☆☆ [Recommended for] ・Those with small children who want to enjoy the tour at their own pace ・Those with children
Adult discount: Student discount "Let's enjoy the autumn sea! A special plan for everyone, available only in September and October!" If you're greedy and want to do both, you're in luck. This plan is a full-course experience that lets you fully enjoy the Okinawan sea from both inside and outside! First up is [Snorkeling]. Put on a mask and snorkel and enjoy the sea that is so beautiful it's almost shocking.
3. Banana Boat
Adult discount: Student discount "Enjoy the autumn sea! A great deal for everyone, only available in September and October" [Okinawa Triple Marine Recommended Plan!] ≪Free photo gift included≫ Shiokawa Beach, located in the northern part of Okinawa Prefecture, where the event is held, has exceptionally clear water and is full of coral! You can swim with colorful fish, and enjoy an experience that will make you feel like you're in another world♪ The Churaumi Aquarium is also nearby.
Adult discount: Student discount "Enjoy the autumn sea! Special deals for everyone, available only in September and October!" Laugh so hard your stomach hurts! Or scream so hard your voice becomes hoarse! Three consecutive rides on the marine tubes will get you excited to the max and create summer memories that will last a lifetime! First up is the "banana boat," everyone's favorite! It can accommodate up to eight people, so it's perfect for bringing friends and family together! You can adjust the speed, so
Limited to September and October! Adult discount! Student discount has started!! 1,000 yen off the menu price! Fully reserved! 5 kinds of marine sports all-you-can-play plan (2 hours) - Banana boat, Big Marble, Biscuit, Jet ski, Snorkeling - Welcome to "2 hours without being disturbed by anyone". Spread out before your eyes is the blue of Okinawa, which will make you lose your sense of reality.
4. Parasailing
★No.1 in parasailing experience and number of users★Okinawa's longest rope at 200m! Okinawa's longest established parasailing store★We will do our best to help you make the best memories of this ocean★A safety store with 23 years of history that puts the prevention of accidents on your important trip first■No.1 in number of reviews┗2025 Activity Japan, Northern Okinawa Main Island Area
[Parasailing is one of the most popular activities in the northern part of Okinawa's main island] Why not try Okinawa's popular marine activity, parasailing, at a great price? The meeting point is about 10 minutes by car from Okinawa's most popular tourist spot, the Churaumi Aquarium! This great value set plan includes a ticket to the Churaumi Aquarium! Our experienced staff will fully support you in creating unforgettable memories in the best location.
[Parasailing is one of the most popular activities in the northern part of Okinawa's main island] Why not try Okinawa's popular marine activity, "parasailing," at a great price? The meeting point is about 10 minutes by car from the Churaumi Aquarium, a popular tourist spot in Okinawa! We also offer a great set plan that includes a ticket to the Churaumi Aquarium! Our experienced staff will do their best to help you create unforgettable memories in the best location.
Top 10 Activities Around Ocean Expo Park
A warm and moving half-day whale watching tour in the cold season! Travel safely and comfortably on a large, rock-resistant double-decker boat with photo data included. Easily accessible near the Churaumi Aquarium!
- 4.4
- (8 reviews and experiences)
Departing from Motobu Town in northern Okinawa ☆ Closest to the much talked about Junglia Okinawa! (20 minutes) ☆ 10 minutes from Churaumi Aquarium! Small group tours. Two departures per day from Toguchi Port in Motobu Town. Experienced staff who love whales will guide you to see the whales of the north! Free pick-up and drop-off from some designated hotels in Motobu Town and Nago City! (However, if you are using a rental car or other means of transportation,
- 4.6
- (9 reviews and experiences)
★A full-fledged tour with reduced watching time and no return to port★Free photo gifts, raincoats, candy, and drinks★We will do our best to help you make the best memories of your time at sea■No. 1 in number of reviews┗2025 Activity Japan - Okinawa Main Island Northern Area - Whale Tour Review Ranking No. 1 (2
- 5.0
- (21 reviews and experiences)
[Parasailing is one of the most popular activities in the northern part of Okinawa's main island] Why not try Okinawa's popular marine activity, parasailing, at a great price? The meeting point is about 10 minutes by car from Okinawa's most popular tourist spot, the Churaumi Aquarium! This great value set plan includes a ticket to the Churaumi Aquarium! Our experienced staff will fully support you in creating unforgettable memories in the best location.
- 4.9
- (48 reviews and experiences)
[Parasailing is one of the most popular activities in the northern part of Okinawa's main island] Why not try Okinawa's popular marine activity, "parasailing," at a great price? The meeting point is about 10 minutes by car from the Churaumi Aquarium, a popular tourist spot in Okinawa! We also offer a great set plan that includes a ticket to the Churaumi Aquarium! Our experienced staff will do their best to help you create unforgettable memories in the best location.
- 4.9
- (82 reviews and experiences)
★No.1 in parasailing experience and number of users★Okinawa's longest rope at 200m! Okinawa's longest established parasailing store★We will do our best to help you make the best memories of this ocean★A safety store with 23 years of history that puts the prevention of accidents on your important trip first■No.1 in number of reviews┗2025 Activity Japan, Northern Okinawa Main Island Area
- 4.9
- (166 reviews and experiences)
Thank you for visiting the diving shop TI.OCEAN. We offer introductory diving and snorkeling tours tailored to beginners. Gorilla Chop Beach is a popular swimming spot on Okinawa's main island! It features a large rock that looks like a gorilla is chopping, and is home to a variety of coral reefs and a plethora of fish.
- 5.0
- (1 review/experience)
A special winter plan! Every winter, humpback whales return to Okinawa to breed. While the Kerama Islands are famous for whale watching in Okinawa, you can also see many whales in the waters off our home turf, Motobu. The dynamic performance of the whales is truly moving! This is a half-day plan, so it's perfect for those who want to do a lot of sightseeing.
- 4.6
- (4 reviews and experiences)
Enjoy a convenient experience diving experience at Minna Island and Sesoko Island at your desired time. The meeting point is a 10-minute drive from the Churaumi Aquarium. Exceptional visibility! Experience diving while soothed by the coral and white sand, and enjoy the natural fish and spectacular coral! Enjoy the Okinawa Yanbaru sea empty-handed! <Course Features> Empty-handed: All you need to bring is your swimsuit! Towels and necessary equipment are provided. Time
- 5.0
- (2 reviews and experiences)
★Northern Okinawa Whale Watching★Every winter, humpback whales come to the warm Okinawa to breed. When it comes to whale watching in Okinawa, the Kerama Islands are famous, but you can also see many whales in the waters off the northern part of the main island, near Motobu. The whales' spectacular performance is full of charm that can only be understood by going there!! The meeting place is Okinawa
Ocean Expo Park is a tourist hub in northern Okinawa where you can enjoy the whole day
This time, About Ocean Expo Park in Motobu Town, Okinawa Introduced!
Ocean Expo Park, which is home to a variety of tourist attractions including the Churaumi Aquarium, is the perfect base for sightseeing in northern Okinawa.
Next time Okinawa When traveling, be sure to use this special feature as a reference and enjoy tropical sightseeing, centered around Ocean Expo Park!
*The content of this article is current as of January 2026.
Featured image provided by:
PIXTA
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