【Okinawa Main Island】Whale Shark Tour

What is a Whale Shark?

Known as “Whale Shark” in English, the giant whale shark may resemble a whale, but it is actually the largest species of shark. The name “Jinbē-zame” comes from its distinctive spotted pattern, which resembles the traditional Japanese “Jinbei” clothing.

The whale shark is the largest non-whale marine creature, with recorded individuals reaching 12 meters in length. Unofficial reports even suggest that some whale sharks may exceed 20 meters.

Despite being a shark, it is completely harmless to humans. Unlike predatory sharks, whale sharks feed on plankton and krill, using their massive mouths to filter-feed.

With a lifespan estimated to exceed 100 years, these gentle giants are among the most mysterious and fascinating creatures of the ocean.

Whale Sharks in Okinawa Main Island

“Jinta-kun” at Churaumi Aquarium

When talking about whale sharks in Okinawa, many people think of “Jinta-kun”, the famous resident whale shark at Churaumi Aquarium.

Since its arrival in 1995, Jinta-kun has been in captivity for over 26 years, making it the longest-surviving whale shark in captivity in the world. Originally 4.6 meters long, it has now grown to 8.8 meters.

Whale Sharks in Yomitan Village (Toya Fishing Port)

A massive net enclosure, located about 2.5 km offshore from Toya Fishing Port in Yomitan Village, serves as a temporary home for whale sharks.

This 18-meter-high, 30-meter-wide enclosure houses two whale sharks, each measuring up to 7 meters in length.

Since whale sharks migrate through tropical, subtropical, and temperate waters, they occasionally become trapped in Okinawa’s fixed fishing nets. Instead of being released immediately, some of these individuals are temporarily housed in the enclosure for observation and educational purposes.

Whale Shark Tour Activities in Okinawa Main Island

Scuba Diving with Whale Sharks

✔ For certified divers & first-time divers (intro dives available)
✔ Experience swimming close to a massive whale shark
✔ Diving inside the net enclosure with excellent visibility
✔ Introductory dives available for beginners (no license required, 10+ years old)

At Toya Fishing Port, you can join a guaranteed whale shark diving tour. Unlike the open ocean, where whale shark sightings are rare, this tour ensures you get a close-up encounter.

How does it work?

• Certified divers can swim alongside the whale sharks inside the enclosure.
• Introductory divers descend to 2–3 meters for a safe, controlled experience.
• The net has large 30cm-wide gaps, allowing clear views of the sharks.

Snorkeling with Whale Sharks

✔ Perfect for families, kids, and non-divers
✔ No diving equipment required – just a mask, snorkel, and fins
✔ Float on the surface and watch the whale sharks below
✔ Children under 10 can join, unlike diving tours

Snorkeling is the easiest way to experience whale sharks, offering a more relaxed encounter.

While you won’t get as close as divers, the 7-meter-long whale shark is so massive that even from 2–3 meters above, you can clearly see its graceful movements.

Glass Boat Tour

✔ Stay dry while observing whale sharks from the boat
✔ Ideal for families with small children & seniors
✔ Watch feeding sessions for an up-close view
✔ Great for photography & sightseeing

If you prefer to stay out of the water, a glass boat tour allows you to watch whale sharks from a transparent-bottomed boat.

You can enjoy a closer view than at an aquarium and even see feeding time, where the whale sharks open their massive mouths to feed—a truly jaw-dropping sight!

If you’re traveling with elderly family members, infants, or those who prefer not to swim, the glass boat tour is the best option.