Busena Marine Park Into Okinawa's Underwater World Without Getting Wet.

No swimsuit required — experience Okinawa's underwater world.

Busena Marine Park is a leading marine attraction in northern Okinawa, located at the tip of Busena Cape in Nago City. The park features two main attractions — the Undersea Observatory Tower, where you can observe Okinawa's coral reefs and tropical fish up close without diving, and the Glass-Bottom Boat, which glides over coral reefs viewed through glass panels in the hull. No swimsuit or swimming ability is required, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

The Undersea Observatory Tower was built offshore from the cape. Descending a spiral staircase takes you to an observation room about five meters below the surface. Through the windows, an emerald-green underwater world unfolds — colorful schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and vivid coral reefs visible through the glass, as if you were inside an aquarium tank. On sunny days, natural sunlight filters down and makes the water even more brilliant. Admission starts from ¥1,050 for adults (combo tickets with the Glass-Bottom Boat available), making it great value for families, couples, and seniors alike.

Busena Cape juts out into the East China Sea from Nago City, surrounded by rich coral reef ecosystems. The entire cape is developed as the "Busena Resort," and the adjacent The Busena Terrace is one of Okinawa's finest luxury resort hotels. Many guests combine the marine park with a leisurely lunch at the hotel's restaurant. Located about 90 minutes from central Naha by expressway, it is ideally positioned for a full-day northern Okinawa course combined with Churaumi Aquarium and Kouri Island.

Coral reefs and tropical fish visible through the windows of the Undersea Observatory Tower.

Highlights and how to enjoy the Observatory Tower and Glass-Bottom Boat

The main highlight of the Undersea Observatory Tower is the breathtaking combination of coral reefs and tropical fish spread beneath your feet. Multiple windows in the observation room allow nearly 360-degree underwater viewing. Northern Okinawa's waters are renowned as a diving destination, and the natural coral reefs remain pristine. Fish often swim right up to the glass, making close-up watching a delight. The changing quality of light throughout the day adds to the experience — bright and sun-drenched in the morning, calm and atmospheric in the afternoon.

The Glass-Bottom Boat offers approximately a 20-minute cruise, gliding over coral reefs viewed through the hull's glass panels. Watching tropical fish, sea slugs, sea cucumbers, and other marine life from above provides a unique and fascinating perspective especially popular with children. Note that the boat may be suspended in bad weather or rough seas, so it is advisable to check conditions before heading out. Capacity is limited and wait times may occur during peak season.

The Busena Cape walking trail surrounding the facility is free to explore and offers stunning views of Nago Bay. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Motobu Peninsula and Kouri Island from the cape tip, making it a popular photography spot. The facility also has a gift shop and light refreshment area selling original goods inspired by the sea and shisa guardian lions. After sightseeing, your driver will recommend nearby Nago City restaurants for Okinawan soki soba and local cuisine.

Coral reefs viewed through the glass hull of the Glass-Bottom Boat.

Nago Bay as seen from Busena Cape. On a clear day you can see all the way to the Motobu Peninsula.

Visiting Busena Marine Park by taxi

A round-trip charter from Naha to Busena Marine Park (approx. 5 hours) starts from ¥31,000 (tax included, expressway tolls separate). The "Northern Full-Day Course" combined with Churaumi Aquarium (8–9 hours) starts from ¥49,600. Nago City is the hub of northern Okinawa sightseeing, and can easily be combined with Kouri Bridge, Nago Castle Park, and local dining spots in Nago.

Because northern Okinawa is a considerable distance from Naha, a charter taxi — where you can travel at your own pace without a rental car — is particularly convenient. The "North Marine Course" combining Churaumi Aquarium and Busena Marine Park in a single day is especially popular with families. Your driver will share local tips and guide you through the highlights of the north, making it a stress-free experience even for first-time visitors to Okinawa.

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