The largest variety of sharks in Japan! Don't miss the live dolphin performances! Aqua World Ibaraki Oarai Aquarium

  • Ibaraki
  • Sightseeing
The Great Tank of the Sea of Encounters
Aqua World Oarai is one of the largest aquariums in Japan. A large number of 68,000 creatures of about 580 species are waiting for you in 60 aquariums of various sizes. The number of sharks kept here is the largest in Japan! The Aqua World Oarai is full of attractions such as dolphin performances and jellyfish exhibits that incorporate digital technology. Why don't you feel the romance of sea creatures connected from the sea of Ibaraki?

The largest number of species bred in Japan! The sharks are amazing!

Sharks are the symbol of Aqua World Oarai, and you can see them in one of the nine areas in the "Yukyu no Umi Zone". What kind of sharks do you imagine when you hear the word "shark"? Aqua World Oarai has about 60 species of sharks, the largest number in Japan. Sharks with various characteristics are worth seeing. You may even be able to find your "favorite shark." We also put a lot of effort into breeding sharks, and have succeeded in breeding 12 species of sharks, including the white crocodile, for the first time in Japan. Please take the time to visit the "Shark Daddy's Room," a museum-like area where you can learn all about sharks.
Shark Sea 1

A must-see photo spot! Jellyfish 365

The elegant appearance of jellyfish drifting around in the tank and the fantastic visual presentation make it seem as if you have wandered into another dimension. 2024 renovations have added seasonal scents, making it a relaxing spot where visitors can experience the changing seasons. Visitors can also enjoy projection mapping on the walls surrounding the tank and lighting on the floor.
Jellyfish 365

Dolphins and sea lions live in the ocean", a powerful performance

In addition, "Dolphin & Sea Lion Ocean Live," an impressive live performance by dolphins and sea lions, is held daily in the "Sea of Wonders Zone. Visitors can enjoy the dolphins' energetic "high jump," the "beach ball kick," in which they kick an oversized beach ball one meter in diameter with their tail fins toward the audience, and the cute performance of the California sea lions. The dynamic movements of the creatures may even cause a splash in the front seats! Please check the schedule in advance on the official website♪
Dolphins and sea lions Ocean Live

Get closer to the dolphins with special programs!

For those who want to enjoy Aqua World Oarai even more, we recommend participating in special programs.
For example, the "Backyard Tour" is a special experience that allows you to explore the backside of the aquarium, which you normally cannot see. The attraction of this tour is that you will be guided by a keeper, who will talk to you while you observe up close how the creatures on display are cared for and prepared for exhibition. The tour takes about 30 minutes and costs 500 yen per person (ages 4 and up, first-come-first-served basis).
Backyard Tour
Also, don't miss the "Shark Special Tour," which is unique to Aqua World Oarai and focuses on sharks. You can look into the tank where sharks swim from above. The tour takes about 40 minutes and costs 1,000 yen per person (ages 4 and up, first-come-first-served basis). The "Shark Special Tour" will run until December 2024, so early participation is recommended for those interested!
Children of elementary school age and younger, including backyard tours, must be accompanied by an adult. Both adults and children are sure to be very satisfied by experiencing the mysterious world of the sea up close and personal.
Shark Special Tour
For more information on events and programs, visit

Web ticket is recommended! Ticket Information

General admission tickets cost 2,300 yen for adults, 1,100 yen for elementary and junior high school students, 400 yen for infants, and free for children under 3 years old. Our recommendation is to purchase a web ticket in advance! If the museum becomes crowded, visitors with Web tickets or Annual Passports will be given priority. If you are going to visit the museum, you will want to enter smoothly. Please check the official website for details.

November 13th is Ibaraki Prefectural Citizens' Day Discount!

November 13 is a special day when discounts will be applied to all visitors, no matter where they live, even if they are not residents of Ibaraki Prefecture! Admission to Aqua World Oarai is 1,150 yen for adults, 550 yen for elementary and junior high school students, and free for infants (3 years and older)!
For more information on ticket information, visit

Come on, New World!"

Aqua World Oarai is a new world! Aqua World Oarai offers a variety of exhibits and programs to explore new possibilities for aquariums under the tagline, "Now, a New World! Aqua World Oarai is the perfect spot for you who are looking for a relaxing time away from your busy daily life. Why not make new discoveries and learn something new by encountering marine creatures?

Combine your favorite train with lodging or a day trip plan for a great travel experience!

You can make your own original trip!

JR East View Dynamic Rail Package is a variable price individual travel product available only on the web. Depending on the timing and conditions of your application, you may be able to get a discount as early as the day of departure. We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.
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