Complete Guide to Making Memories at DMM Kariyushi Aquarium: An Unforgettable Animal Encounter Experience for Parents and Children
When people think of Okinawa, many imagine the clear cobalt-blue sea and the subtropical climate that sets it apart from Japan’s main islands, offering a tropical resort-like atmosphere.
DMM Kariyushi Aquarium allows you to enjoy Okinawa’s symbolic sea and nature—all indoors.
More than just a place to observe marine life, this facility is packed with surprises, interactive features, and entertainment.
In this article, we’ll explore everything from the aquarium’s unique characteristics and highlights to original goods available only here.
Even if you're short on time, this guide will help you experience everything DMM Kariyushi Aquarium has to offer.
What Is DMM Kariyushi Aquarium?
DMM Kariyushi Aquarium is an immersive entertainment facility located within the large commercial complex iias Okinawa Toyosaki in Tomigusuku City, Okinawa Prefecture.
The total floor area is around 7,000 square meters, and it takes about 60 to 80 minutes to explore the entire facility.
Because it’s indoors, visitors can enjoy it year-round without worrying about the weather.
Access
About 20 minutes by car from Naha Airport.
You can also take the Naha Bus No. 95 Airport Ashibinaa Line (approx. 20 minutes) or the Tokyo Bus TK02 Umikaji Liner (approx. 35 minutes) to the “iias Okinawa Toyosaki” stop.
It’s easily accessible by bus not only from nearby spots like Senagajima Umikaji Terrace and Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa, but also from the Itoman area and Kokusai Street.
Key Features
The biggest appeal of DMM Kariyushi Aquarium is its interactive experiences—like feeding otters and sharks, or getting up close to penguins and sloths.
In spring 2025, a new interactive zone called “Tetote Community Square” opened, where visitors can meet micro pigs (a first in Okinawa), feed owls and call ducks, and more.
Future plans include encounters with large dogs, making this hands-on entertainment space one that offers something new with every visit.
3 Animals You Can Meet at “Tetote Community Square”
The newly opened “Tetote Community Square” features animals not typically seen in an aquarium setting.
You can feed them, take commemorative photos, and enjoy rare, close-up interactions with these fascinating creatures.
1. Owls
You can observe owls up close, and watching them enjoy their food is truly a memorable sight.
After feeding, you're also welcome to take photos (please note: flash and extra lighting are prohibited throughout the facility).
2. Micro Pigs
Step into the Tetote zone and you’ll be greeted by 16 free-roaming micro pigs.
This area allows not only feeding but also physical interaction with the pigs.
3. Call Ducks
Call ducks are small, round, and irresistibly cute with their snow-white feathers.
Their smooth, glossy plumage is a delight to touch.
※Please note: Tetote Community Square operates from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last entry at 5:30 p.m.). Hours are subject to change without notice.
3 Zones Where You Can Encounter Animals Up Close
The aquarium is divided into two main zones:
“Clear waters teeming with a wide variety of life” and “Evergreen forest with subtropical climate.”
Here are three areas within these zones where you can enjoy zero-distance encounters with the animals.
1. Around the Touch Pool - An area where visitors can interact with marine life such as sharks and starfish (2F)
This area is home to oriental small-clawed otters, sharks, and starfish.
You can feed the otters here—watching them eagerly reach out for food and feeling their soft little hands is sure to leave a lasting impression.
2. Penguin Gusuku - An Area Where Penguins Swim Gracefully Underwater (2F)
Here, you can observe penguins both swimming underwater and waddling on land.
Around 15 Humboldt penguins live in this area, and their adorable gathering behavior during feeding time is a must-see.
3. Yui-Yui Zoo - An Area Where Land Animals Roam Freely (2F)
This space is home to animals like two-toed sloths and African spurred tortoises, freely living at their own pace.
Although touching is not allowed, you can feed them up close without any barriers.
3 Spots to Enjoy the Aquarium’s Free-Swimming Marine Life
The "Uchina Big Aquarium" houses around 30 species of marine life native to the waters around Okinawa.
Here, you can see a variety of creatures—some, like rays and zebra sharks, swim gracefully on their own, while others, like Indian mackerels, move together in schools.
One of the highlights is being able to enjoy views of this tank from various angles.
Each spot is highly photogenic, so be sure to have your camera ready.
1. Uchina Big Aquarium , Front View – A Massive Tank Featuring Marine Life from Okinawa’s Coastal Waters (1F)
This massive tank is home to about 30 species of marine life from the waters around Okinawa.
graceful movements of rays and zebra sharks swimming solo, as well as the mesmerizing sight of schools of Indian mackerels swimming together.
2. Cyuraminamo - A Glass-Floored Walkway That Feels Like You’re Strolling Over the Tank (2F)
This glass-floored section on the 2nd floor is located directly above the Uchina Big Aquarium.
It creates the unique sensation of walking right over the tank.
3. Submarine-Style Round Window - A Viewing Spot That Feels Like You’re Underwater in a Submarine (1F)
This round, submarine-inspired window is located on the side of the Uchina Big Aquarium, near the jellyfish zone.
The lighting and angles here differ from the front and top views, offering a completely different visual experience.
Must-See: Areas That Showcase Dreamlike Light, Sound, and Visual Effects
Two of the signature features of the DMM Kariyushi Aquarium are its immersive spaces—Jellyfish Yonna and Umikaji Dome—both designed with impressive lighting and sound effects.
Below is an overview of what makes each of these areas unique.
Jellyfish Yonna: A Dreamy World of Light and Sound
This area is themed around “a beautiful green forest spreading across the ocean floor.”
Jellyfish such as moon jellyfish, papuan jellyfish, and Japanese sea nettle are displayed in cylindrical tanks that change color in sync with soothing music, creating a fantastical, ever-changing underwater atmosphere.
Umikaji Dome: A Re-creation of Okinawa’s Sky and Sea
This shallow-water area features a vivid lighting display that changes in real time to match the local time of day.
From bright sunny skies to sudden thunderstorms, you can experience Okinawa’s ever-changing weather patterns indoors in a fully immersive setting.
Exclusive Souvenirs and Treats You Can Only Find Here
After enjoying hands-on encounters with animals, why not deepen the experience with some one-of-a-kind souvenirs and tasty treats?
Here are some original items and gourmet offerings available only at the DMM Kariyushi Aquarium.
Kariyushi Shirt Penguin
A plush penguin toy wearing a Kariyushi shirt (Okinawan-style floral shirt).
Its soft, squishy texture and round, chubby form make it irresistibly cute.
Fluffy Plush Series
A collection of plush toys with soft, fluffy fur and gentle facial expressions that bring comfort.
They can sit upright on a shelf, making them great for display as interior décor as well.
Kugani Chinsuko
A traditional Okinawan sweet made with the finest domestic ingredients and carefully baked by artisans.
Its vivid packaging, inspired by the DMM Kariyushi Aquarium, won the Gold Prize at the 26th National Confectionery Exposition in Japan.
Seasonal Treats Inspired by Aquarium Animals
Inside the aquarium, you’ll find seasonal food items inspired by the animals of DMM Kariyushi Aquarium.
The menu changes with the seasons, so each visit offers a new and delightful flavor experience.
Tickets Are Best Purchased Online
Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at the facility, the ticket counter, or through the official website.
Online purchases are recommended, as no membership registration is required and the process takes as little as two minutes.
To participate in experiences such as feeding the animals, in addition to an admission ticket, you will need to purchase a separate event ticket.
These tickets are only available for purchase on-site and are limited in number, so visiting in the morning is recommended.
Wrap-up
At DMM Kariyushi Aquarium, families can enjoy unforgettable encounters with animals together.
Experiencing awe and wonder through close interaction with creatures you've never seen before is sure to become a cherished memory for both parents and children.
With excellent access from Naha Airport, it's an ideal addition to your itinerary before or after your flight.