Oita Marine Palace Aquarium "Umitamago" (villain)

Must Do Experiences

• Watch the lively and entertaining dolphin, sea lion, and unique walrus performances.

• Stroll through the open-air seaside exhibits to enjoy stunning ocean views alongside marine life.

• Interact with the animals at the touch pools and close-up feeding zones for a hands-on experience.

Hidden Gems

• Seek out the outdoor Seal Park where you can watch seals lounging on rocks with the real ocean as their backdrop.

• Visit during the late afternoon to see the nocturnal marine creatures wake up and become active in the dimly lit indoor zones.

• Check the daily schedule for the behind-the-scenes feeding times, which offer a more intimate look at the animals' diets and behaviors.

What Makes it Special

• The unique open-air design seamlessly blends the aquarium exhibits with the natural beauty of the Seto Inland Sea.

• It features rare and highly entertaining walrus performances that are not commonly found in other Japanese aquariums.

• The flat, barrier-free layout ensures a stress-free and comfortable exploration experience for strollers and wheelchairs alike.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is on a weekday morning right at opening to enjoy the exhibits with minimal crowds and watch the animals during their most active feeding hours. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for enjoying the outdoor seaside exhibits, while summer brings vibrant energy but larger family crowds.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the outdoor seals and sea lions during the golden hour just before sunset for beautiful lighting with the ocean in the background.

• Use a fast shutter speed and avoid flash when photographing the fast-moving dolphins and walruses during the live shows.

• Position yourself at eye level with the large acrylic viewing panels to get dramatic, distortion-free shots of the swimming fish.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese aquariums value a peaceful environment, so it is important to speak softly and avoid tapping on the glass enclosures. When watching the animal shows, it is customary to applaud politely and follow the staff's instructions regarding standing or cheering. Queueing is taken very seriously, so always wait your turn in line for exhibits, touch pools, and food stalls.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Summer Night Aquarium events in July and August feature extended evening hours, special illuminations, and night-time animal feeding sessions.

• Winter Illumination festivals transform the outdoor pathways and entrance into a magical light display from November to February.

• Spring break and Golden Week in May bring special interactive workshops, limited-edition souvenir stamps, and extra daily shows for families.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a close eye on children near the open-air water features and touch pools to prevent slipping on wet surfaces.

• Follow all posted guidelines during animal interaction sessions, keeping your hands flat and avoiding sudden movements to ensure both your safety and the animals' well-being.

• Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shaded outdoor areas or the air-conditioned cafe, especially during the hot and humid summer months.