It is a member of the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums (JAZA),[4] and the aquarium is accredited as a Museum-equivalent facilities by the Museum Act from Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.

[7] In July 1966, an experimental corner was opened and the world's first fish acrobatics were realized in September, the Crown Prince and Princess of Japan, Emperor Hirohito and Empress Nagako visited the aquarium.

[2] In October 1971, the company name was changed from "Oita Marine Palace Aquarium Co.[2] 1981, in July, the aquarium was designated as a museum by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.

[2] In August 1990, the first sea otter show in Japan was opened to the public.

[2] The new facility is the former "Oita Ecology Aquarium Marine Palace," which has been renovated and reopened on an approximate three-fold increase in size, and is located along National Route 10 between Oita and Beppu (Beedai National Route), facing Beppu Bay, approximately 1.8 km (5,900 ft) to the city border with Beppu City.