Welcome to the magical world of Marine World Uminonakamichi, a unique and captivating ocean-themed park located in Fukuoka, Japan. This incredible park offers visitors an unforgettable experience, blending the best of marine life, amusement rides, and beautiful landscapes. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore everything Marine World Uminonakamichi has to offer!
Marine World Uminonakamichi opened its doors in 1989, with the vision of creating a space where visitors could learn about and appreciate the beauty of the ocean and its inhabitants. Since then, the park has grown into a popular destination, attracting millions of tourists from around the globe each year.
Attractions
First Floor
Open Ocean Off: The Japan Current flows through the warm waters of southern Kyushu, and the Open Ocean Off exhibit recreates this open ocean environment. This large, dynamic aquarium is 7 meters deep and 24 meters wide, showcasing a diverse range of marine life.
Creature Island: At Creature Island, you can observe penguins, sea lions, and seals from various angles and interact with them up close. This unique exhibit allows you to appreciate these fascinating animals in a more personal way.
Kyushu’s Deep Ocean Waters: Explore the mysterious deep-sea creatures that have evolved under harsh conditions, including low water temperature, high water pressure, and low oxygen content. This exhibit showcases the remarkable life forms that inhabit the deep ocean waters around Kyushu.
Dolphins: A Familiar Site in Fukuoka: Enjoy the cute facial expressions of the finless porpoise, a small species indigenous to northern Kyushu. This exhibit offers a relaxing space to watch dolphins swim and play in the water.
Sea Trivia: Sea Trivia provides a serene spot to observe dolphins swimming comfortably in the water. Sit back, relax, and enjoy these magnificent creatures.
Second Floor
Open Ocean Off: Like the first-floor exhibit, the second floor’s Open Ocean Off showcases the diverse marine life of the Japan Current in a large, dynamic aquarium.
Jellyfish of Kyushu: Experience the mysterious world of jellyfish through light and sound. This immersive exhibit lets you forget the everyday world as you enjoy the slow passage of time and healing rhythms of these fascinating creatures.
Coral Reefs of Amami: Discover the beautiful world of vivid coral and colorful fish in the waters surrounding Amami, located south of Kyushu.
Sea Otter Pool: Observe sea otters through a window as they freely float, dive, and eat. This exhibit offers a unique opportunity to watch these playful creatures up close.
HONE NOTE: Uncover the secrets hidden in the shapes and sizes of bones that have changed according to the environment in which they live. HONE NOTE provides an engaging, educational experience with explanations expressed using various onomatopoeic sounds.
Show Pool (2F/3F): The show pool offers an excellent view of Hakata Bay, with a new sea lion stage set in front of the bleachers. This allows you to see the performance more closely and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.
Third Floor
Kyushu’s Inshore Waters: Each prefecture in Kyushu borders the ocean, and this exhibit recreates the unique ocean habitats of each region in an aquarium.
Kyushu Water Forest: Kyushu is home to many world-class aquatic environments on land. Rain that falls on the mountains becomes rivers that flow over the land and into the sea. The Kyushu Water Forest exhibit recreates the living creatures and environment that nurture life during the journey of water.
Dining Options
Restaurants: When hunger strikes, Marine World Uminonakamichi offers a variety of dining options to suit every palate. Choose from an array of restaurants serving delicious Japanese cuisine, fresh seafood, and international favorites.
Cafes: If you’re in the mood for a light snack or a refreshing drink, the park also features several cafes where you can grab a quick bite or relax with a coffee or tea.
How to Get There
Reaching Marine World Uminonakamichi is quite convenient, with various transportation options available. Here are some methods you can use to get to the park:
By Train
From Hakata Station in Fukuoka, take the JR Kagoshima Main Line to Kashii Station. At Kashii Station, transfer to the JR Kashii Line and head to Uminonakamichi Station. The park is about a 20-minute walk from Uminonakamichi Station, or you can catch a bus from the station to Marine World Uminonakamichi.
By Bus
From the Hakata Bus Terminal or Tenjin Bus Center, you can take the Showa Bus directly to Marine World Uminonakamichi. The bus ride takes approximately 45 minutes. Be sure to check the bus schedule before your trip, as the number of buses operating may be limited.
By Car
If you prefer to drive, Marine World Uminonakamichi is easily accessible by car. From Fukuoka, take the Fukuoka Urban Expressway to the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway, then exit at the Kashiihama Interchange. Follow the signs to Marine World Uminonakamichi. There is ample parking available at the park for visitors.
Remember to check the park’s official website for the most up-to-date information on transportation options, schedules, and fees before planning your visit to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Marine World Uminonakamichi is an enchanting ocean-themed park that offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors of all ages. From its awe-inspiring aquarium and thrilling amusement park to its serene flower gardens and sandy beach, this destination truly has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and set sail for an unforgettable adventure at Marine World Uminonakamichi!
2 comments
junketjapan
You’re welcome!
Dav
Thank you for this clear information.