AquaWorld Ōarai

I have been to a number of zoos and aquariums in Japan, and coming from an Australian perspective, I usually been disappointed with the quality of the exhibits and the way the animals were treated. Before I visited AquaWorld in Ōarai recently, I didn't have high expectations. I am glad to say that AquaWorld has changed my preconceptions. It was amazing!

Located at the mouth of Naka River in Ōarai, the aquarium is run by Ibaraki Prefecture and was most recently renovated in 2002. The current facilities, exhibitions and location are world-class.

There are over 60 major tanks, with 68,000 individual fish and more than 580 species represented. You can see all types of sharks, dolphins, penguins, seals, turtles, stingrays, crustaceans, tropical fish, cold water fish, deep sea fish, fresh water fish and even the extremely ugly sun fish.

One of the highlights of a trip to AquaWorld would have to be the "Ocean Theater," where dolphins and seals put on a highly choreographed show for the onlookers, especially those in the front row who are happy to get wet. Make sure you check the times of the show when you first get there so you don't miss out.

Another fun thing to watch is feeding time, where you get the chance to talk to the keepers and ask questions. The penguins' lunch time is very cute to watch.

Also check out the "touching pool" where you can play with different types of fish and crustaceans. Until recently the touching pool was home to the famous "Doctor Fish" that ate dead skin. The types of animals in the pool are rotated every 3 months.

From July 14th to October 8th, 2007, there will be a special exhibition on turtles.

If you are planning to go, make sure you get there early to make a day of it. There is so much to see and you don't want to miss out.

Prices

Adults

¥1800

Students (up to junior high schoolers)

¥900

Small children

¥300

Children under 3

free

Group rates are available.

Open hours

Open

9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (last admission 4:00 p.m.)

Closed

From December 28th to January 1st
4th Monday of June, or the next day if the 4th Monday falls on a public holiday
2nd Monday of December, or the next day if the 2nd falls on a public holiday.

How to get there

Address

8252-3 Isohama-chō, Ōarai (茨城県大洗町磯浜町8252-3)

Telephone

029-267-5151

Fax

029-267-5920

Website

http://www.aquaworld-oarai.com/

Links of interest

Check out the live web cam of the dolphin tank here: http://www.ntt-east.co.jp/ibaraki/kao/