Beppu is home to a popular seaside aquarium on the shore of Beppu Bay (widely known as Umitamago, the ‘sea egg’), making a fun, family-friendly outing and a welcome change of pace from the town’s hot springs. The aquarium presents a wide variety of marine life across its tanks and exhibits — from a large main tank and colourful reef fish to seals, otters, and playful star performers like walruses and dolphins. It’s known for its interactive, hands-on approach: lively performances and shows, close-up animal encounters, a touch pool where children can handle sea creatures, and feeding experiences that make it especially engaging for kids. With a scenic bayside setting and often combined with a nearby monkey park, the aquarium is an excellent option for families, a rainy day, or anyone wanting a lighthearted, entertaining stop between Beppu’s onsen experiences.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Beppu Bay, Oita |
| Hours | ~9:00–18:00 (varies) |
| Admission | Paid (moderate) |
| Time needed | 1.5–2 hours |
| Best time | Year-round; good for families |
What to See
- Playful walruses, dolphins and seals in shows.
- A large main tank and colourful reef fish.
- A touch pool and hands-on animal encounters.
- A scenic setting on Beppu Bay.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Takasakiyama monkey park nearby.
- Pair with Beppu Tower in town.
- Read our Oita overview .
Getting There
- By bus: from Beppu or Oita to the Umitamago stop.
- By car: on the coast between Beppu and Oita city.
Tips
Check the daily schedule of shows and feeding times when you arrive and plan around them, as the walrus and animal performances are a highlight. It’s especially good for families with children, combine it with the neighbouring Takasakiyama monkey park (often on the same site) for a full day, and it makes a good rainy-day option.
