Marine World Uminonakamichi is home to about 30,000 marine animals of some 350 different species and has received a total of 25.5 million visitors since its opening in 1989 (as of September 2023).
With its blue skies, clear blue water, and pleasant ocean breeze, the Uminonakamichi area is popular among Fukuoka residents and is always bustling with visitors on weekends and holidays.
The city of Fukuoka spreads out along the coast of Hakata Bay, and Uminonakamichi, as it is commonly called, is located on an enormous sandbar which connects the city’s northern island of Shikanoshima to the mainland.
Marine World Uminonakamichi features a thematic exhibit known as the “Seas of Kyushu”. This exhibit recreates the seas which surround the seven prefectures of Kyushu, including the East China Sea, the Pacific Ocean, the Sea of Japan, and the Seto Inland Sea, where fish are kept in conditions which closely resemble their natural habitat.
At Marine World Uminonakamichi you’ll find plenty of cute, adorable little creatures.
Watch as the cute little sea otters, always an aquarium favorite, float, dive around, and have a little snack. Enjoy the charming expressions of the finless porpoise (a small species related to the dolphin). Admire the adorable little backsides of the penguins as they waddle their way back to their huts, as well as the darling little seals and their delightful expressions.
Plenty of amazing surprises await you, as well.

In the Show Pool set to the backdrop of Hakata Bay, immerse yourself in the dynamic sky-high jumps of the Dolphin and Sea Lion Show.
Those seated in the front rows, however, should be prepared to get splashed.

Feel as if you are diving into the world of the sea itself at the powerful yet mysterious Open Ocean Tank, home to some 20,000 marine creatures of about 40 different species.
Take some pictures at the Uminaka Cube, an underwater observation channel with three glass walls where you can enjoy watching the seals from various angles as they pass through a cylindrical tank.
You can also experience feeding the sea lions and seals. Simply catch their attention and they will soon come running, mouth wide open. This one is always a favorite among children.
In the Jellyfish of Kyushu area, relax and escape from your everyday life as you take in the slow pace and healing rhythm of these mysterious creatures.
Also recommended is the Backyard Tour, a private tour of the facilities for groups of family and friends, available by reservation.
This tour offers unique experiences, including a sneak peek behind the scenes of the aquarium tanks where you can even try feeding the fish.
Marine World Uminonakamichi is a perfect place to visit with family, friends or even that special someone, so be sure to check it out.
It is conveniently located about 35 minutes from Hakata Station via the JR Kagoshima Main Line connecting to the JR Kashii Line, and is only a 5-minute walk from JR Uminonakamichi Station.
It is also a pleasant little ferry ride away from Hakata Pier.

Marine World Uminonakamichi
(Uminonakamichi Marine Ecological Science Museum Co.）
Location: 18-28, Nishitozaki, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka 811-0321
phone number: 092-603-0400
Hours: Regular hours: 9:30 – 17:30; GW and summer: 9:30 – 21:00; December – February: 10:00 – 17:00　Admission until 1 hour before closing.
*In the event of stormy weather such as typhoons or lightning strikes, the hours of operation may be changed or the museum may be temporarily closed without prior notice.
Closed on the first Monday in February and the following day.
https://marine-world.jp/

Cover photograph provided by 福岡県観光連盟