Colors of My Heart：楽天ブログ

2025.03.21

Churaumi Aquarium in Okinawa（美ら海水族館）

カテゴリ：Photography

■ Churaumi Aquarium

Churaumi Aquarium, located in Motobu Town, Okinawa Prefecture, is one of Japan’s premier aquariums in terms of scale and exhibits. It first opened its doors in 1999 and showcases a diverse array of marine life native to the waters of Okinawa. The aquarium is particularly renowned for its impressive size, extensive exhibits, and its ability to convey the beauty of Okinawa’s ocean.

One of the most remarkable highlights of Churaumi Aquarium is the massive tank called "The Kuroshio Sea." This enormous tank houses a variety of marine creatures, including whale sharks, manta rays, and numerous other fish species. Containing over 7,500 tons of seawater, the sheer scale of the tank is overwhelming. The whale shark, known as the largest fish species in the world, is especially captivating, allowing visitors to witness its majestic and powerful swimming up close. In addition to the whale shark, the tank is home to various species of sharks, rays, and vividly colored tropical fish, making it an unmissable attraction.

Churaumi Aquarium is situated in the northern part of Okinawa's main island, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car from Naha City. The surrounding area is dotted with various sightseeing spots, making it a convenient base for tourism. The aquarium itself, as well as its vicinity, features restaurants and souvenir shops, allowing visitors to fully enjoy their trip.

Churaumi Aquarium offers a wonderful opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Okinawa’s ocean and to experience the beauty and diversity of marine life firsthand. It is a must-visit destination for families, with not only captivating indoor exhibits but also scenic walking paths around the facility, allowing visitors to spend an entire day exploring.

Photography is permitted inside the aquarium, though due to the dim lighting, using a fast lens is recommended. When capturing the Kuroshio Sea tank, using a wide-angle lens from a slight distance will help in photographing the entire view effectively.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 / M. Zuiko 12-40mm F2.8 / ISO 640 / F2.8 / 1/80s / -0.7

Olympus OM-D E-M1 / M. Zuiko 12-40mm F2.8 / ISO 500 / F2.8 / 1/80s / -1.3

Olympus OM-D E-M1 / M. Zuiko 12-40mm F2.8 / ISO 640 / F2.8 / 1/80s / -1.3

Olympus OM-D E-M1 / M. Zuiko 12-40mm F2.8 / ISO 500 / F2.8 / 1/80s / -1.3

Olympus OM-D E-M1 / M. Zuiko 12-40mm F2.8 / ISO 640 / F2.8 / 1/80s / -1.3

Olympus OM-D E-M1 / M. Zuiko 12-40mm F2.8 / ISO 640 / F2.8 / 1/80s / -1.3

■ Taken on 10th Mar 2017 by following equipment.