
Okichan Theater
Free, entertaining dolphin shows with stunning ocean views, promoting marine conservation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch the free, entertaining shows.

Okichan Theater
Best Time
Catch the free, entertaining shows.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Free, entertaining dolphin shows with stunning ocean views, promoting marine conservation.
"Amazing dolphin show! Very funny and fantastic performance. Must watch!"

🎯 Get Ready to Get Wet!
Sit in the front rows for the best views, but be prepared to get splashed! Bring a towel or poncho.
⏰ Check Show Schedules
Shows are free and run multiple times daily. Arrive early for good seats.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dolphin Show Extravaganza
Witness incredible dolphin acrobatics, synchronized swimming, and playful interactions. A must-see for all ages!

Meet the Dolphins Up Close
See bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins, and even false killer whales. Learn about their intelligence and behavior.

Oceanfront Performance Stage
Enjoy the show with a stunning backdrop of the East China Sea. The open-air amphitheater offers a beautiful setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Fantastic Shows
Prepare for a Splash!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Get Ready to Get Wet!
Sit in the front rows for the best views, but be prepared to get splashed! Bring a towel or poncho.
⏰ Check Show Schedules
Shows are free and run multiple times daily. Arrive early for good seats.
📸 Capture the Fun
Bring your camera or phone to record the amazing tricks and interactions.
🌊 Educational & Entertaining
The shows are not just fun but also educational, promoting ocean conservation.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Get Ready to Get Wet!
Sit in the front rows for the best views, but be prepared to get splashed! Bring a towel or poncho.
⏰ Check Show Schedules
Shows are free and run multiple times daily. Arrive early for good seats.
📸 Capture the Fun
Bring your camera or phone to record the amazing tricks and interactions.
🌊 Educational & Entertaining
The shows are not just fun but also educational, promoting ocean conservation.
📍 Free Admission Area
The theater is located in a free-admission area next to the aquarium.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Okichan Theater's free dolphin shows, calling them fun, entertaining, and fantastic. The performances showcase impressive dolphin tricks and offer an educational message about ocean conservation. However, some guests were caught off guard by how wet they got, and a few expressed concerns about animal welfare.
"The show is included in the aquarium entry ticket so I recommend watching if you’re there and have the time! It was really fun and entertaining, but it wasn’t very long. But I still enjoyed it a lot!"
Helena Ying Cecilie Wang
"The dolphins show was amazing. Very funny and fantastic performance. Must watch this show if u r visiting the Churaumi aquarium."
Desmond Lee
"Great and funny dolphin show! Was very enjoyable to watch. The dolphin instructors put on a great show! They make the dolpins do all kinds of different tricks!"
Robin Ansems
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Okichan Theater is located within the Ocean Expo Park, adjacent to the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Motobu Town. You can reach Motobu Town by bus from Naha Airport or Naha Bus Terminal, or by car. The theater itself is in a free-admission area of the park.
Yes, there are parking facilities available at Ocean Expo Park. If you are driving, follow the signs for the aquarium and the theater.
Yes, the Okichan Theater is located right next to the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium within the Ocean Expo Park, making it easily accessible on foot.
Within Motobu Town, local buses are available, but for exploring the Ocean Expo Park and its attractions like the Okichan Theater, walking is the most convenient method. Renting a car is also a popular option for flexibility.
The theater is generally accessible, with paved paths and seating areas. However, it's always a good idea to check with the park staff for specific accessibility details if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the dolphin shows at Okichan Theater are free to watch and are included with your visit to the Ocean Expo Park.
The Okichan Theater itself doesn't have separate operating hours; it hosts dolphin shows at scheduled times throughout the day. It's best to check the daily show schedule upon arrival at Ocean Expo Park.
Entry to the Okichan Theater to watch the dolphin shows is free. The theater is part of the free-access area of Ocean Expo Park.
Occasionally, there are special events or themed shows. For example, there have been 'Summer Shows' and 'Winter Shows' with unique performances.
Seats are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure a good viewing spot.
📸 📸 Photography & Videography
Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed during the dolphin shows, so you can capture the amazing performances.
The front rows offer close-up views of the dolphins, but you might get wet. Mid-level seating provides a good balance of view and dryness for photos.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally good practice to avoid using flash photography during animal performances to not disturb the animals.
The Okichan Theater area is open, and you can often see dolphins in their lagoon outside of show times, allowing for casual photography.
A smartphone with good zoom capabilities or a digital camera will work well. Consider a waterproof case if you plan to sit close to the stage.
🎫 🐬 Onsite Experience
You can see bottlenose dolphins, spotted dolphins, and sometimes even false killer whales.
The dolphin shows are typically quite entertaining but not very long, usually around 15-20 minutes.
It's highly recommended to bring a towel or wear waterproof clothing, as you are likely to get wet, especially if sitting in the front sections.
While the shows are primarily for viewing, there are occasional interactive sessions or educational programs. Visitors have expressed a desire for more interaction opportunities.
The Okichan Theater is celebrating its 50th anniversary and plays a role in educating the public about marine life and conservation, promoting coexistence between humans and marine animals.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't specific dining facilities directly at the Okichan Theater, there are food and beverage options available within the broader Ocean Expo Park, including near the Churaumi Aquarium.
Outside food and drinks are generally permitted in public park areas, but it's always best to check the specific park regulations for the Ocean Expo Park.
The park offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants, serving local Okinawan cuisine and other popular dishes.
Dining options within the park may vary. It's advisable to check menus in advance or inquire at the restaurants for specific dietary needs.
Yes, some restaurants within Ocean Expo Park offer ocean views, providing a pleasant dining experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip for families: Be prepared for the splash zone! Sitting in the front rows guarantees a close-up view but also means kids (and adults!) will likely get wet. Bringing a towel or wearing waterproof gear is a must. Also, consider arriving a bit early to get good seats where everyone can see comfortably. The educational aspect of the show, promoting ocean conservation, is also a great learning opportunity for kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the free areas of the park, like the beaches and gardens, to maximize your experience without additional costs. While the Churaumi Aquarium has an entrance fee, the theater itself offers a high-quality entertainment experience at no charge.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider a camera with good burst mode and a decent zoom to get clear shots of the action. While the splash zone offers unique perspectives, it also poses a risk to equipment, so a waterproof camera or protective casing is advisable if you plan to sit close. The natural light from the open-air venue is generally good, but be mindful of potential glare from the water.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Star Performers: Okinawa's Dolphins
Visitors often express awe at the dolphins' abilities and the trainers' skill. The shows are a significant attraction within the Ocean Expo Park, drawing crowds eager to witness these aquatic stars. The theater's open-air design, with the vast East China Sea as a backdrop, enhances the overall experience, making it a memorable part of any Okinawa visit.
It's worth noting that while the shows are a highlight, some visitors have expressed a desire for more direct interaction opportunities and have raised ethical considerations regarding keeping wildlife for entertainment. However, the general sentiment remains positive regarding the educational and entertaining value of the performances.
Planning Your Visit to Okichan Theater
A crucial tip for visitors is to be prepared for the 'splash zone.' The front rows are closest to the action, offering the best views, but also the highest chance of getting wet from the dolphins' splashes. Many visitors recommend bringing a towel or wearing quick-drying clothes or a poncho to stay comfortable.
Photography is generally permitted, so bring your camera or smartphone to capture the energetic performances. The theater's location next to the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium also means you can easily combine your visit to both attractions, making for a full day of marine exploration and entertainment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit