UMITAMAGO / Oita City

The Oita Marine Palace Aquarium Umitamago is an interactive aquarium known for being an “aquarium where you can befriend the animals”. Its most popular area is its Giant Circular Tank, which makes you feel as if you are looking into the actual sea. It features the overwhelming sight of 1,500 fish from more than 90 species swimming around together in the Bungo Channel. Another highlight is its exhibition space, where you can meet exciting sea life, such as bioluminescent jellyfish and silver–coloured hairtail fish, in their mystical habitats.

In the outdoor area, dolphin and walrus shows are a very popular attraction. The Umitama Performance in which the walruses appear, is described as “sweet and humorous” and is a must–see for many visitors. Equally, the dolphin show has been known to bring smiles to the audience’s faces, offering the chance to see the warm interactions between the dolphins and their trainers. Furthermore, at the so–called Asobeach, you have the opportunity to see marine creatures up–close without the usual restriction of being separated by glass. On the luckiest occasions, dolphins have even been known to come right up and greet people.

Located facing the sea, along the national highway between Oita City and Beppu City, this aquarium is a great spot for relaxing in the company of animals.