Aqua World Oarai Aquarium
Explore one of Japan's largest aquariums, featuring a vast array of marine life, impressive shark tanks, and captivating animal shows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Aqua World Oarai Aquarium
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore one of Japan's largest aquariums, featuring a vast array of marine life, impressive shark tanks, and captivating animal shows.
"An unforgettable experience with impressive sharks and entertaining shows!"
🎯 Catch the Shows!
Don't miss the entertaining dolphin and sea lion shows; they're a highlight for many visitors!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple floors and an outdoor area.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shark Tanks
Main tanks
Marvel at one of Japan's largest shark collections, featuring impressive species up close. A true thrill for marine life enthusiasts!
Dolphin and Sea Lion Shows
Performance arena
Be entertained by intelligent sea lions and dynamic dolphins in captivating shows that delight all ages.
Underwater Tunnel
Main exhibition area
Walk through a mesmerizing tunnel surrounded by diverse marine life, offering a unique perspective of the ocean's wonders.
Penguin and Seal Exhibits
Outdoor area
Observe playful penguins and seals in their naturalistic habitats, a charming addition to the aquarium experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Plan for a Full Day of Aquatic Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Shows!
Don't miss the entertaining dolphin and sea lion shows; they're a highlight for many visitors!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple floors and an outdoor area.
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, especially on weekends.
📸 Capture the Memories
Plenty of photo opportunities, from the underwater tunnel to the animal shows.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Shows!
Don't miss the entertaining dolphin and sea lion shows; they're a highlight for many visitors!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple floors and an outdoor area.
⏰ Arrive Early
Beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, especially on weekends.
📸 Capture the Memories
Plenty of photo opportunities, from the underwater tunnel to the animal shows.
🍽️ Food Court Available
Grab a bite at the food court near the exit; re-entry with your ticket is possible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Aqua World Oarai for its impressive shark collection, entertaining animal shows, and engaging exhibits. Many highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the well-cared-for animals. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some mention that certain exhibits, like the jellyfish tanks, could be more impactful.
"A Fantastic Experience at Aqua World Ibaraki Oarai
I recently visited Aqua World Ibaraki Oarai, and it was an unforgettable experience! The highlight was undoubtedly the impressive variety of sharks on display—seeing them up close was exhilarating and truly a dream come true for a shark lover like me.
The aquarium had a peaceful atmosphere, making it feel like we had the place to ourselves. I also enjoyed feeding the river fish, which provided a fun splash of excitement, and their enthusiasm was contagious!
The parking lot was conveniently located right by the water, and I was pleased to see that all the animals looked healthy and well-cared-for. With engaging exhibits for visitors of all ages, we happily spent about three hours exploring.
Overall, Aqua World Ibaraki Oarai is a must-visit, especially for those who share a passion for marine life. I can't wait to return!"
Gabi Andrews
"I had a great time, the fish were great, the dolphins and sea lions were very entertaining, the penguins were cute, the food court was great."
Wahyu Rahmaniar
"Great to see some sea animals and we were able to watch the dolphin and seal show. You can spend at least 2-3 hours getting through everything. Love the souvenir options after the theatre show and exit. There’s also some food area near the souvenir shop. Great for kids to enjoy!"
V M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tokyo, take the JR Joban Line to Katsuta Station, then transfer to the Oarai Kotsu Bus bound for Oarai Aquarium. The journey takes approximately 2-2.5 hours.
Yes, there is convenient parking available right by the water, making it easy to access the aquarium.
The nearest train station is Katsuta Station on the JR Joban Line. From there, you'll need to take a bus to reach the aquarium.
From Hitachinaka, you can take a bus to Aqua World Oarai. It's also a good idea to visit Nakaminato Fish Market nearby.
Yes, it's a popular tourist destination in Ibaraki Prefecture, with clear signage and bus routes from major stations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. They also offer 'NIGHT AQUA WORLD' on weekends from 6 PM to 8 PM.
Admission fees vary for adults, children, and seniors. It's recommended to check the official website for current pricing.
While not explicitly stated, purchasing tickets upon arrival is common. Checking the official website for online booking options is advisable.
Information on discounts is not readily available in social media or reviews, but it's always worth checking the official website or inquiring at the ticket counter.
Yes, you can re-enter with your ticket after visiting the food court or if you need to step out briefly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The massive shark tanks, the underwater tunnel, the dolphin and sea lion shows, and the penguin and seal exhibits are highly recommended.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the aquarium, but you could easily spend longer if you plan to see all the shows and interactive exhibits.
Yes, there are opportunities for hands-on exhibits, including feeding river fish and petting small sharks.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for kids with entertaining shows, diverse marine life, and interactive elements.
This is a special evening opening on weekends, offering a different, more mystical atmosphere with illuminated tanks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a food court located near the exit where you can enjoy various food options.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's generally best to consume outside food in designated areas or before entering. The on-site food court is a convenient option.
The food court offers a selection of tasty food options, suitable for a quick meal during your visit.
The primary dining option mentioned is the food court. It's advisable to check the aquarium's official website for any additional dining facilities.
Yes, you can re-enter the aquarium with your ticket after eating, offering flexibility for your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but it's always good to be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding flash photography.
The underwater tunnel, the large shark tanks, and the dolphin shows offer fantastic photo opportunities. The exterior views are also scenic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in indoor public spaces like aquariums for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check the aquarium's specific drone policy.
While not explicitly stated, it's a common practice in aquariums to avoid flash photography to protect the animals' eyes. Always adhere to posted signs.
Visitors often share photos of the diverse marine life, the impressive shark tanks, the underwater tunnel, and the animal performances. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families include arriving early to avoid long queues and bringing comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's a lot of ground to cover. The on-site food court offers convenient dining options, and the ability to re-enter with tickets provides flexibility if little ones need a break.
🦈 Shark Enthusiasts
Beyond just viewing, the aquarium provides educational insights, including details on how baby sharks are cared for, adding an educational layer to the experience. This focus on sharks makes it a must-visit for anyone who finds these apex predators captivating.
📸 Photography Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Marine Life
The aquarium is thoughtfully laid out across multiple floors, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of aquatic ecosystems. From the vast ocean tanks to more specialized exhibits like jellyfish and tidepool creatures, there's something to captivate every visitor. The attention to detail in showcasing the health and well-being of the animals is also frequently noted and appreciated.
For those interested in specific species, the aquarium also offers insights into the care of baby sharks, adding an educational dimension to the visit. The combination of impressive displays and educational elements makes Aqua World Oarai a truly enriching destination for marine life enthusiasts.
Engaging Shows and Interactive Experiences
Beyond the scheduled performances, the aquarium offers interactive opportunities that enhance the visitor experience. These include feeding sessions for river fish, which add a splash of fun and engagement, and the chance to pet smaller marine life like sharks.
For a unique perspective, consider visiting during the 'NIGHT AQUA WORLD' events held on weekends. This special evening opening transforms the aquarium into a mystical space with illuminated tanks, offering a different ambiance and a memorable experience.
Exploring Oarai's Coastal Charm
Nearby attractions complement the aquarium visit. Oarai Sun Beach is a popular spot for relaxation and enjoying the ocean breeze, making it a perfect addition to a day trip.
Food enthusiasts can also explore the Nakaminato Fish Market, a short distance away, for fresh seafood and local delicacies.
This proximity to other attractions allows visitors to create a well-rounded itinerary that combines marine exploration with the natural beauty and cultural offerings of the Oarai region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit