Name: Okinawa Main Island Whale Shark Tour
Brand: Okinawa Tours
SKU: shark
Rating: 4.74 (213 reviews)

Encounter rate 100% in Yomitan Village, Okinawa main island!
Swim with the powerful whale sharks☆!

Okinawa Main Island Whale Shark Tour

On the main island of Okinawa, the world's largest fishYou can swim with whale sharks.

The whale sharks swimming right in front of you are a sight to behold and will leave you with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Even adults will be excited by this rare tour, so be sure to give it a try when you visit Okinawa!

This article is for...

◆Are you interested in marine life?
◆Love whale sharks?
◆Have you been to Churaumi Aquarium?
◆Are you interested in snorkeling or diving?
◆Those looking for activities to participate in with their children

In this issue, we will introduce the attractions and recommendations for whale shark tours on the main island of Okinawa!

Whale sharks seen on the main island of Okinawa (Yomitan Village)

Whale Sharks Found in Okinawa

Whale sharks are popular creatures kept at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.

In fact, in Yomitan Village (Yomitan-son), Okinawa, even in the wide oceanYou can definitely see whale sharks.Did you know there is a place?

Whale Sharks Found in Okinawa

Near Miyakoya fishing port in Yomitan Village is,Giant jets 18 meters high and 30 meters in diameterand there are one to three whale sharks kept there that have been protected after getting mixed up in a large fixed net.

You can swim with them by snorkeling or diving, and even adults will be excited to see their gigantic size in front of their eyes for the first time!

Yomitan Village is close to Onna Village and is easily accessible♪

↓For more information about Yomitan Village, click here↓.

Yomitan Village, the most populous village in Japan, is full of attractions! Introducing sightseeing spots and recommended activities!Contents1 What is "Yomitan Village", the most populated village in Japan? 2 What are the attractions of Yomitan Village2.1 Yachimun2.2 There are many scenic spots! 3 Popular spots in Yomitan Village3.1 Experience Kingdom Murasaki Village3.2 Cape Avalanche3.3 Yachimun [...]

Characteristics and habits of whale sharks on Okinawa Island (Yomitan Village)

Origin and character of the name

Characteristics and Habits of the Whale Shark

Whale sharks are said to be the largest fish in the world,The spotted pattern on the body resembles a jinbeiThis is why they are called whale sharks.

Although it is hard to imagine from their huge size, they are gentle and very timid. They swim around in the water slowly and leisurely.

ecology

Characteristics and Habits of the Whale Shark

Seen in Yomitan Village, OkinawaWhale sharks are about 7 meters longAnd when seen up close, it is so powerful that even adults get very excited.

Its skin is 10 cm thick, very thick and sturdy. Some say that there is no creature in the sea stronger than the whale shark because of its strong muscle contraction and outstanding elasticity.

Their lifespan is very long, and according to one theory, they can live over 100 years.

Difficult to encounter in the wild?

[Yomitan Village, Okinawa] Exclusive Private Sessions for One Group Only! Whale Shark Experience Diving—Beginners Welcome!

The chances of seeing whale sharks in the wild in the vast ocean areextremely lowFor this reason, participation in this tour is highly recommended, as you can be sure to see them!

In the huge cage in Yomitan Village, protected individuals swim freely in an environment close to the natural sea, and can be observed up close.

feeding habitat

Whale Sharks Found on the Main Island of Okinawa

The image of sharks may seem scary,Whale sharks are very mild-mannered, docile, and very low-risk.It is.

Whale sharks' staple food is small fish and plankton, which they eat by inhaling along with seawater. Although their large size may seem unimaginable, whale sharks eat only extremely small prey.

Okinawa Main Island (Yomitan Village) Fun with Whale Sharks

snorkeling

Activities in Okinawa Where You Can Interact with Whale Sharks

Snorkeling is an easy way to observe whale sharks!

Even small children and those who are not good swimmers can enjoy it.Therefore, many guests join our snorkeling tours every year.

Relax and enjoy underwater observation while floating on the surface of the sea.

⬇︎ for whale shark snorkeling plans

Whale Shark Snorkeling, Blue Grotto Introductory Diving

Okinawa Yomitan Village/Half Day】Set Deal☆Diving in Blue Cave & Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour Feeding whale sharks up close! (No.84)開始時間8:00-12:00 / 10:00-14:00 (only from November to March) / 12:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 4 hours16,000 yen

[Yomitan Village, Okinawa / Approx. 4 hours] Ages 4 and up welcome! Blue Cave & Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour☆ Enjoy a unique experience only Okinawa can offer! A truly unforgettable experience guaranteed

Blue Cave & Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour☆Okinawa's unique and precious experience! You are sure to be impressed (No.82)開始時間8:00-12:00 / 10:00-14:00 (only from November to March) / 12:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 4 hours11,800 yen

[Yomitan Village, Okinawa / Approx. 4.5 hours] Focused on Satisfaction♪ Enjoy a Unique Okinawan Experience☆ Blue Cave Snorkeling & Whale Shark Introductory Diving Tour

Okinawa Yomitan Village/Half Day] Focusing on Satisfaction♪ Blue Cave Snorkeling & Whale Shark Experience Diving Tour☆Okinawa's unique and precious experience (No.83)開始時間8:00-12:00 / 10:00-14:00 (only from November to March) / 12:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 4 hours15,000 yen

About Okinawa Snorkeling Tours
For more information

diving

Activities in Okinawa Where You Can Interact with Whale Sharks

During the experience diving, you can dive down to a depth of 2 to 3 meters and touch whale sharks through a net from the ceiling of the kayak.

On the other hand, for fun diving, you can go into the koiWhale sharks can be seen at close range and you can even swim with them!It is.

The attraction of diving is that you can observe whale sharks closer than snorkeling!

⬇︎ for whale shark diving plans

Whale Sharks Found on the Main Island of Okinawa

Okinawa Yomitan Village / 2 hours] Satisfaction-oriented♪ Whale Shark and Experience Diving Tour! A unique and precious experience in Okinawa☆ You are sure to be impressed! (No.59)開始時間08:10-10:20 /10:20-12:20 /12:50-14:50 /15:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours10,000 yen

Okinawa Yomitan Village/3 hours] Beginners welcome!開始時間8:00 / 9:30 / 12:30 / 14:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours19,800 yen

Okinawa Yomitan Village/4.5 hours] Blue Cave & Whale Shark Experience Diving Tour! A precious experience unique to Okinawa (No.108)開始時間8:00-12:30 / 10:00-14:30 (only from November to March) / 12:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 4.5 hours19,800 yen

About Okinawa Diving Tours
For more information

Recommended Whale Shark Tours by Difficulty Level

For beginners
Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour

Recommended Whale Shark Tours by Difficulty Level☆

For beginners and children, whale shark observation through relaxed snorkeling is recommended!

Whale sharks are kept in the nets of their holding tanks, within arm's reach.Watch whale sharks feedingThe following is an example of a product that can be used in this way.

Commemorative photo with whale shark using underwater digital camerawill also be a special experience for the participants♪

We also introduce plans that include snorkeling and diving in the nearby Blue Cave!

From 3 years old to OK! Blue Cave &...
Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour

Whale Shark Snorkeling

For safety reasons, it is not possible to enter the net, but it is close enough to reach and is very powerful.Feeding sceneThis snorkeling tour also allows you to see the

In addition, the mystical spot, "Blue CaveThis is a set tour that allows you to take your time to enjoy the

Life jackets will be provided for beginners and those who are not good at swimming.Rest assured.This is a plan that you can participate in.

Reviews & Testimonials

I brought my child with me, but the staff was very kind and made me feel at ease! The whole family was so excited to see the beauty of the Blue Cave and the power of the whale sharks up close.

Reviews & Testimonials

The moment I entered the Blue Cave, I couldn't help but be amazed at the fantastic way the light entered the cave. The whale shark snorkeling was also very powerful, and the experience was extraordinary. I was glad that the group size was small, so explanations were detailed and we were able to enjoy the ocean in a relaxed atmosphere.

Blue Cave Experience Diving &
Whale Shark Snorkel Tour

Whale Shark Snorkeling and Introductory Diving

Beginners are welcome to join us for Blue Cave Diving & Whale Shark Snorkeling in small groups.set tourIt is!

We also offer underwater digital camera shooting, so you can see whale sharks andcommemorative photographis also popular

You will be accompanied by an experienced guide.safe and secureRecommended for those who want to enjoy the underwater world to the fullest!

Reviews & Testimonials

The support of the guide was extremely helpful. The blue of the Blue Cave was really beautiful and the whale shark feeding was very powerful. I was worried about swimming, but I was able to enjoy it without worry.

Reviews & Testimonials

It was great to see the whale sharks feeding so close to us! The Blue Cave was fantastic and an experience of a lifetime. The guide was perfect.

For beginners and intermediate students
Whale Shark Experience Diving Tour

Recommended Whale Shark Tours by Difficulty Level☆

The experience diving tour to swim with the powerful whale sharks is justDreamy adventuresIt is!

An instructor will guide you through the process,Private tours limited to one groupand others for safe and secure enjoyment!

Experience a rare encounter with whale sharks while feeling the life force of the ocean.

Small group ☆ Blue Cave &
Whale Shark Experience Diving Tour!

Whale Shark Introductory Dive

Swimming together at a distance that is almost within reach, and the powerfulartificial feedingThis is an experience diving tour where you can also see the scene

Underwater digital camera photography is also available, so commemorative photos with whale sharks are also popular!

Most of the participants are beginners. The guide'sComplete SupportYou can easily participate in the event because there are

Reviews & Testimonials

It was the first diving experience for three student beginners! Not only were the staff's preliminary explanations easy to understand, but they were also very easy to talk to, chatting with us and introducing us to recommended stores in Okinawa. We were a little nervous and scared at some points, but the underwater help was extremely fast and they were able to quickly get us to the place where we were in trouble. Please do the extra option of taking pictures!

Reviews & Testimonials

Of all the families who participated in the tour, the children especially enjoyed it. The beauty of the Blue Cave and the power of the whale sharks were very satisfying for all of us. The guide was also very good.

One couple is completely reserved for a private party, for safety and security☆.
Whale Shark Experience Diving Tour

Whale Shark, Blue Grotto, Introductory Diving

One couple is completely reserved for a private partyThis is an experience diving tour where you can swim with whale sharks of the

The way they open their big mouths to suck in krillfull impactand you can directly feel the real ecology and power of wildlife.

Of course, you can meet not only whale sharks, but also other whale sharks around them and large schools of toothfish, Okinawa's prefectural fish, and blue tangs, so you can see a lot of whale sharks.great excitementNo doubt about it... ♪

Reviews & Testimonials

We felt very safe that we were the only ones at the private party, and we were able to enjoy ourselves without thinking about inconveniencing other participants or anything else!

Reviews & Testimonials

I was very satisfied. The guide's explanations were easy to understand and I was fascinated by the mysterious whale sharks. I would like to participate again.

Okinawa Yomitan Village/3 hours] Beginners welcome!開始時間8:00 / 9:30 / 12:30 / 14:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours19,800 yen

Advanced
Whale Shark Fun Diving Tour

Recommended Whale Shark Tours by Difficulty Level☆

In Fun Diving,License (C-card) holders must participateYou can swim alongside 7-meter whale sharks in a net, which is a rare experience.

If you have a diving license,Dive to depths of up to 40 metersOpen water divers are allowed up to 18 meters!

Enjoy an emotional encounter with whale sharks within safe limits♪

License required☆ Enjoyable even for a short time!
Whale Shark and Fun Diving Tour

Whale Shark Scuba Diving

It was about two hours.Even if it's only for a short time.It is a valuable experience unique to Okinawa!

This tour allows you to swim with whale sharks and see a powerful feeding scene.

Guide.Complete SupportIt is also recommended for those who want to enjoy a safe and secure environment.

Yomitan Village, Okinawa / 2 hours] License required! Fun Diving Tour with Whale Shark, the World's Largest Fish (No.76)開始時間08:20-10:20 /10:20-12:20 /12:50-14:50 /15:00-17:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours8,000 yen

Popular set of Blue Cave & Whale Shark
License Required》Fun Diving Tour

Whale Shark Scuba Diving

The depths at which licensees can dive,Max. 40m(18m for open water divers) and enjoy the freedom of the ocean to the extent that it is not too strenuous â

The instructor will give you full support,Safety and SecurityEnjoy!

License holder only! Blue Cave" Fun Diving & Whale Shark & Fun Diving Half Day Course (No.197)開始時間8:20-11:20 / 10:20-13:20 / 12:50-15:20 / 15:00-18:00所要時間Approx. 4.5 hours19,800 yen

When is the best season?

whale shark (Rhincodon typus)

For whale shark tours in Yomitan Village,Throughout the yearA major attraction is the opportunity to participate.

Particularly recommended time of year

April - October

The blue sky and calm sea of Okinawa, with whale sharks.The Best MomentYou can enjoy the

In winter, it can be windy, but the experience can often take place even in stormy weather because it is held in a kettle, even in the off-season.Rest assured.You are welcome to join us.

Best Season to Travel to Okinawa
Click here for more information about ↓↓.

When is the best season to travel to Okinawa? A Complete Guide to Choosing by Purpose, Cheapness, and TyphoonTable of Contents1 Best Season for Okinawa Travel by Month and Purpose2 [At a Glance] Okinawa Best Season by Month3 When is the Best Time to Travel to Okinawa? Recommended times and times to avoid3.1 Recommended times and reasons to travel3 [...].

Whale Shark Tour Flow on the day of the tour

[Yomitan Village, Okinawa] Exclusive Private Sessions for One Group Only! Whale Shark Experience Diving—Beginners Welcome!

To ease the minds of first-time participants, here is a brief overview of the day's flow!

The time required from the meeting to the end isApprox. 2 to 3 hoursis the standard.

(1) Gathering, reception, explanation

Changing Clothes, Diving, Wetsuits

Meet at the meeting place and be informed by the staffCareful orientationStarting from

Wetsuits and masks.Equipment rentaland be ready to go.

Even if it is your first time, they will explain everything in an easy-to-understand manner, so please keep asking questions if you have any concerns!

(2) Movement to the whale shark pond and whale shark experience

whale shark (Rhincodon typus)

When ready, we will take a boat to the fish pond.

Finally, it is time to meet the whale shark!

Snorkeling and experience diving, getting up close and personal.Whale Shark's great powerPlease enjoy the "Mere Old Man" to the fullest.

Feeding scenes may be seen,great excitementIt is sure to do so!

(3) Completion and dismissal

Kouri Island Emmons Diving Camera

After the experience is overReturn equipmentAfter a quick shower and refreshment, the group will disperse.

underwater cameraWe also have a plan that allows you to receive the data taken at the event and purchase photos of your memories.

Stop by nearby attractions on your way home!

About to the recommended sightseeing spots
↓Click here for more information.

Can beginners participate in whale shark tours?

Whale shark tours areEven beginners and small childrenYou can participate with peace of mind!

Although participation requirements vary, some tours are available for participants as young as 4 years old, making this an activity that can be enjoyed by a wide range of customers.

Our expert instructors will help older swimmers and those who are not confident in their swimming skills to put safety first.

Can beginners participate in whale shark tours?

Since it is easily accessible from popular tourist spots such as "Blue Cave" and "Cape Maeda" located in Onna Village, we recommend that you join us in conjunction with sightseeing.

Please try the whale shark experience, which is sure to be a powerful and exciting one!

Summary of recommendations for beginners

◆Specialized instructors provide careful support
◆Available from 3 years old
◆Located near popular tourist attractions in Onna Village
◆Whale sharks are kept in captivity and their gentle personalities can be admired.

Notes on the Okinawa Main Island (Yomitan Village) Whale Shark Tour

Important Notes for Whale Shark Tours

When participating in whale shark tours, please note the following

Points to keep in mind when participating in the tour

◆Trying to touch is not
◆Follow the guide's instructions during the tour
◆Do not disturb the progress of whale sharks
◆Do not forcefully approach and stress

Please mind your manners and make happy memories... ♪

Okinawa Main Island (Yomitan Village) Whale Shark Tour
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Whale shark watching in Japan
Where can I do it?

The only place in Japan where whale shark watching is available in the sea is the huge cage in Yomitan Village, Okinawa. In other aquariums, whale sharks are only exhibited and cannot be seen in their natural state directly under the sea.

Q. Can I take a whale shark tour even if I can't swim?
Do you enjoy it?

Of course, you can have fun! You will wear a life jacket, so there is no need to worry about drowning.

Q. Are whale sharks the largest fish in the world?

Whale sharks are the largest species of fish in the world. Recent reports record a massive 20 meters in length and 35 tons in weight.

Q. Is it possible to be bitten by a whale shark?
Is there?

Whale sharks do have large mouths, but they are not carnivores and feed mainly on plankton, so there is no need to worry about being bitten by humans. You can swim with whale sharks with peace of mind.

New Experiences of Whale Shark Tour in Okinawa Island

Blue Cave & Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour☆Okinawa's unique and precious experience! You are sure to be impressed (No.82)

User_uwlt / 50s Posted on: July 2026

I used this shop during my last visit to Okinawa, and this time I booked the whale shark and Blue Cave tour again. As always, the staff were very efficient, and I was able to safely enjoy the breathtaking scenery. No matter how many times I come, they never disappoint.

Okinawa Yomitan Village/4.5 hours] Blue Cave & Whale Shark Experience Diving Tour! A precious experience unique to Okinawa (No.108)

User_orhi / 50s Posted on: July 2026

First, we enjoyed diving in the Blue Grotto, surrounded by its mystical blue light, and then we observed the awe-inspiring whale sharks up close. I was very satisfied with the attentive guidance provided in a small group setting, but it was a bit chilly during the boat ride, so it would have been perfect if I’d had something to wear over my clothes.

Blue Cave & Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour☆Okinawa's unique and precious experience! You are sure to be impressed (No.82)

User_nflj / 40s Posted on: July 2026

It was the children’s first time seeing a whale shark, but thanks to the staff’s kind guidance, they were able to go into the water without being afraid. The kids were thrilled by the beauty of the Blue Grotto and the awe-inspiring sight of the whale shark, and we made some wonderful family memories.

Blue Cave & Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour☆Okinawa's unique and precious experience! You are sure to be impressed (No.82)

User_uvaa / 50s Posted on: July 2026

I was completely captivated by the awe-inspiring whale shark and the mystical light of the Blue Cave... Drifting leisurely through the ocean in a small group, it felt as though my petty everyday worries were slowly melting away into the waves... It was a truly blissful and healing experience.

Yomitan Village, Okinawa / 2 hours] License required! Fun Diving Tour with Whale Shark, the World's Largest Fish (No.76)

User_azeo / 40s Posted on: July 2026

I was so impressed by my last snorkeling experience that this time I got my certification and went on a recreational dive. Seeing the whale sharks up close was even more awe-inspiring than I could have imagined, and no matter how many times I come, it never fails to move me.

Blue Cave & Whale Shark Snorkeling Tour☆Okinawa's unique and precious experience! You are sure to be impressed (No.82)

User_tokg / 30s Posted on: July 2026

This tour offers great value for the price, letting you enjoy both the Blue Cave and whale sharks. Since it’s a small-group tour, it was easy to follow the guide’s explanations. However, the boat did rock a bit, so I think anyone prone to seasickness should take precautions beforehand.