The Dolphin & Sea Lion Ocean Live at Aqua World Ibaraki Oarai Aquarium has been fully renewed, with the new programs launching from March 12, 2026 (Thursday). The renewal is produced by creative company NAKED, Inc., with Nomura Kogei Corporation serving as general producer.
Two separate programs are now running at the aquarium's Ocean Theater: a daytime show titled DAY LIVE "WOOOOARAI!! —The Beginning of an Encounter Story—" and an evening-only program, NIGHT LIVE "FLOW A LIFE —The Pulsating Ocean of Life—". Both revolve around themes of "encounters" and "the pulse of life," combining light, sound, and video with the dynamic performances of dolphins and sea lions to deliver an immersive live entertainment experience.
DAY LIVE: WOOOOARAI!! —The Beginning of an Encounter Story—
Set against the backdrop of Oarai's sea, this story-driven live show portrays "encounters that begin right here." Light, sound, and video production are woven together with the energy of the animals, creating an experience that feels like stepping into the story as its main character.
NIGHT LIVE: FLOW A LIFE —The Pulsating Ocean of Life—
This program runs exclusively during evening hours. Inspired by the "tidal confluence (shio-me)"—where the Kuroshio and Oyashio currents meet—the show expresses the cycle and interconnectedness of life. Enhanced video production and expanded lighting create a spatial experience that is distinctly different from the daytime show.
Highlights of the Renewal
The renewal rethinks the Ocean Live from a simple viewing program into a fully immersive live experience where the surrounding space, natural environment, and audience experience come together as one.
Expanded Video Projection for Greater Spatial Impact
The projection range has been expanded to create a unified visual space spanning the stage and audience area, with equipment and production tailored separately for the day and night programs.
Real-time Synchronization of Animals and Visuals
Lights and particle effects respond to the dolphins' jumps and vocalizations in real time, seamlessly merging the animals' performances with the visual production.
Stronger Narrative through Concept Redesign
The "tidal confluence" of Oarai — where the Kuroshio and Oyashio currents meet — serves as the central motif, with the theme of "the crossroads of life." Each program follows its own story and visual direction, drawing visitors into a world that feels like an immersive journey beneath the sea.
Schedule & Admission
| Event Name | DAY LIVE: "WOOOOARAI!! —The Beginning of an Encounter Story—" / NIGHT LIVE: "FLOW A LIFE —The Pulsating Ocean of Life—" |
| Venue | Aqua World Ibaraki Oarai Aquarium (Ocean Theater) |
| Period | From March 12, 2026 (Thursday) — ongoing permanent exhibit |
| DAY LIVE Hours | During daytime hours (approx. 20 min per show) |
| NIGHT LIVE Hours | During evening hours (approx. 15 min per show) ※ Please check the official website for exact showtimes and the number of daily performances |
Daytime Admission (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, subject to seasonal changes)
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (high school age and above) | ¥2,300 |
| Elementary and junior high school students | ¥1,100 |
| Children (3 years and above) | ¥400 |
| Under 3 years | Free |
Evening Admission (5:45 PM to 8:00 PM, principally every Saturday)
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (high school age and above) | ¥2,300 |
| Elementary and junior high school students | ¥1,100 |
| Children (3 years and above) | ¥400 |
| Under 3 years | Free |
Please note:
- Evening entry requires a dedicated evening ticket. Annual passes, advance tickets, and invitation tickets are not accepted for evening admission.
- Schedules may change during peak periods such as Golden Week and Obon, or when special events are held.
- Guests who attend the daytime session cannot continue into the evening session without purchasing a separate evening ticket.
- If the venue is crowded, priority entry will be given to guests with web tickets or annual passes.
Official Website: https://www.aquaworld-oarai.com/
