Marine World — Attraction in Fukuoka

Information boards explain about the ecology and biodiversity well. However, the information boards are mainly in Japanese. There is an audio guide (QR code), but the information there is pretty limited, so I had to rely on Google translate most of the time. It’s a shame because there are actually good amount of information if one bothers to slowly read them. However, it got tedious to translate every sign and squint at my phone screen each time, that I just gave up.

Other reasons I cannot justify a higher rating are:

a) the enclosures are quite small, especially for the porpoises, sea otters and sea turtles. The animals don’t seem to have space to traverse laterally and remain still (I mean, if the sharks remain still for the most part of the 10 mins that I spent observing them, I guess I can conclude that something is fundamentally wrong).

b) touch pools!! For the sake of our sanity, please remove them! If they are just left there unstaffed, unregulated and do not serve any educational purposes, I really don’t see the need for them in the first place. The number of times I saw the sea stars being poked and squeezed by thoughtless humans - it’s unacceptable.

Edit: I had to take away another star when I witnessed a sea lion flopping on the hot, concrete ground - once again for the entertainment of humans. When I approached the staff about it, they said it was okay because “they sprayed water on the...

For all my non Japanese readers, we took a train from Hakata station about ¥480. You can enter the North or Central entrance. Went to Kashii for a transfer. Got off at platform 1, then walked to platform 4. Ride that train until Uminonakamichi station. Then it was a short beautiful walk to the Maine World. The ride took about 50 minutes. It's much faster to drive in Fukuoka.

Upon arrival, children over 3 have to pay ¥700. Adults are ¥2300. 2 automated machines or a friendly staff member is there to get you the tickets. Make sure you grab a pamphlet map and go straight up the stairs to see the dolphins. Before you go outside, there is a TV with all the show information. Like when the otter feeding will happen and other shows. Must see that cute otter. Get a spot in the front sides or middle. The otter will swim up the the glass in front of you.

I didn't eat any food inside but they do have a cafe on the 1st floor with a beautiful view of the underwater dolphins tank. I brought in onigiri and bread for me and my daughter to share. Seems like other people brought there own food in too.

The place is pretty big, you can spend about 2-3 hours here. You can get your picture taken for free with a cute background and seals. The picture is about wallet sized. You have the option to pay for a larger, framed picture.

We bought some cute stuff from the gift shop before we left for the Seaside Park. Check out...

Marine World in Fukuoka is an exceptional destination that offers an immersive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. The aquarium is incredibly spacious, thoughtfully designed to provide both comfort and stunning views of its aquatic inhabitants. It’s a place where the magic of marine life truly comes alive.

One of the standout aspects of Marine World is its interactive opportunities. For kids, it’s an educational wonderland where they can get hands-on experiences that ignite their curiosity and love for the ocean. Adults, too, will find plenty to marvel at, from the awe-inspiring underwater tunnel to the meticulously maintained exhibits showcasing creatures from local waters and beyond.

The chance to see animals up close is always a thrill. Watching majestic creatures like dolphins, seals, and vibrant schools of fish glide gracefully through the water is mesmerizing. The dolphin shows, in particular, are a highlight—combining entertainment with education in a way that leaves you both inspired and informed.

Marine World isn’t just an aquarium—it’s a place that fosters a deeper connection to the ocean and its inhabitants. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or on your own, it’s a must-see attraction in Fukuoka that promises a delightful and memorable...