The aquarium name 'Umitamago' translates literally to 'Egg of the Sea'.
It replaced the historic Oita Ecological Aquarium, which was the first aquarium in Japan to successfully keep walruses.
The facility features a dedicated area designed to simulate a sandy beach where guests can walk alongside marine animals.
The outdoor performance stadium utilizes the natural backdrop of the Beppu Bay, creating a horizon-less effect during shows.
The building design won several architectural awards for its use of light and integration with the surrounding coastline.
Some tanks are designed without traditional glass edges to provide an unobstructed view of the water and aquatic life.
The facility maintains a research program focused on the preservation and study of deep-sea species found in the local Bungo Channel.
Oita Marine Palace Aquarium Umitamago is a major aquarium situated on the coast of the Beppu Bay between Oita City and Beppu. The facility emphasizes interaction through its 'Art Aquarium' concept, featuring large-scale tanks and open-air animal habitats. It is renowned for its signature walrus and dolphin performance programs held in outdoor arenas. The aquarium houses an expansive tide pool area where visitors can observe sea life in environments mimicking natural shores. Specialized displays include a massive coral reef tank and deep-sea creature exhibits sourced from the local Bungo Channel. The architecture features a sleek, modern design that integrates the natural landscape of the bay into the viewing experience. Interactive touch pools allow visitors to encounter rays and other docile marine life up close. Dedicated zones focus on specific species such as otters, penguins, and various shark varieties. The facility functions as a public education center for the biodiversity of the Kyushu region's marine ecosystems.
The glass tunnel area which offers an immersive view of large fish swimming overhead.
Check the performance schedule at the entrance upon arrival to coordinate your route with the walrus and dolphin shows.
Wear comfortable footwear as the outdoor 'Asobi-mare' area covers a significant walking distance on varying surfaces.
Visit the outdoor tide pool area early or late in the day to avoid peak sun exposure during warmer months.
Attempting to visit both Umitamago and the adjacent monkey park in less than a full day, as both locations require significant walking.
Closed for occasional facility maintenance days throughout the year; check official website for unscheduled closure updates.
Refrain from using camera flashes near sensitive marine habitats; follow instructions regarding hand-washing before and after touching animals in interaction zones.
