An ultrasonic endoscope (10) includes an insertion section (12), an operation section (14), an optical observation system and an ultrasonic observation system. The insertion section has a distal end and a proximal end. The operation section is disposed on the proximal end of the insertion section. The optical observation system is disposed in the insertion section. The optical observation system has an objective lens (38) on a distal end surface of the insertion section. The ultrasonic observation system is disposed in the insertion section. The ultrasonic observation system has an ultrasonic transducer (52; 52a; 52c) on the distal end surface of the insertion section or further forward than the distal end thereof. A focal position of the optical observation system and a scanning surface of the ultrasonic transducer are approximately on the same plane.
