DMM Kariyushi Aquarium, Okinawa’s second-largest aquarium was opened in May 2020 and we’ve already been multiple times. It’s located on the second floor of the newly-opened Iias Okinawa Toyosaki Mall in Tomigusuku, just 20 minutes drive south of Naha Airport. It was described as a new kind of aquarium; a combination of animal exhibits and immersive art installations to stimulate the senses and give a unique experience. Tickets can be bought online (valid for 180 days), at convenience stores or at the entrance and cost 2,400 yen for adults (18+), 2000 for youths (13-17) and 1,500 for children (4-12). Children under 3 can enter for free.
As you enter you’re advised to download and refer to the official app for information on all of the displays as there are no descriptions in the aquarium. Personally, I prefer to put my phone away at places like this and enjoy a ‘screen-free’ time so although we didn’t learn anything about the animals we saw, we enjoyed it nonetheless. Some of our favourite exhibits included the jelly fish room, the penguins, the sloths and definitely the shark-containing touch pools! There are some other great exhibits such as the fish tank tunnel and the many corals on display. You might feel as though the facilities are somewhat hidden on your first trip but there are bathrooms, elevators, stairs and a baby room available and there are plenty of staff members to point you in the right direction if you struggle to find them. There is a cafe on the first floor and a gift shop selling items like stuffed animals, cookies and other souvenirs.
Despite a couple of little niggles such as the lack of information unless you use the app, we have had a couple of really enjoyable trips to this aquarium and would defiantly recommend giving it a go!
https://goo.gl/maps/xnMfkRMbhuuzrq5q6
3-35 Toyosaki, Tomigusuku, Okinawa 901-0225
https://kariyushi-aquarium.com/
Open 10.00 – 21.00
Cash (JPY only) and Credit Cards accepted
Parking available at Iias Okinawa Toyosaki Mall
