The Aquaworld Ibaraki Oarai Aquarium in Oarai, Ibaraki Prefecture, currently houses approximately 60 species of sharks, the highest number of shark species in Japan [1].
This concentration of species positions the facility as a primary hub for shark research and public education. By showcasing a vast array of marine life, the aquarium aims to communicate the educational value and inherent appeal of the ocean to its visitors [1].
The aquarium manages a diverse ecosystem across approximately 60 tanks [1]. These exhibits contain 580 species and more than 68,000 individual animals [1]. While the facility is recognized for its shark collection, the exhibits extend to other marine biology, including Humboldt penguins, and moon jellyfish [1].
The institution utilizes specialized displays to introduce visitors to a wide variety of sea creatures beyond sharks [1]. These efforts are designed to highlight the unique characteristics and diversity of ocean life through curated environments.
Recent activities at the aquarium have focused on expanding public access to its operations. The facility held a special backyard tour on June 22, 2025 [5]. Additionally, a new publication titled "Shark Comparison Guide" is scheduled for release on July 3, 2026 [6].
“The aquarium houses approximately 60 species of sharks, the highest number of shark species in Japan.”
The scale of the Aquaworld Ibaraki Oarai Aquarium's collection indicates a significant institutional investment in marine conservation and taxonomy. By maintaining the largest variety of shark species in Japan, the aquarium serves as a critical site for comparative study and public awareness regarding apex predators, which are often misunderstood in popular culture.
