There’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Japan, but its proximity to the ocean means that its aquariums are among the best in the world.
Japan’s aquariums have mastered the art of bringing the ocean to life for its visitors, and visiting one or many of them is an experience not to be missed.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, consider adding these aquariums to your itinerary:
Tokyo’s Aquatic Wonderland
In Tokyo, the Sumida Aquarium is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, thanks to its central location and modern layout.
The aquarium focuses especially on the aquatic life in Tokyo Bay and the Sumida River.
Visitors will enjoy seeing a variety of sea creatures in an up-close and personal way, including jellyfish, penguins, fur seals, and goldfish.
The aquarium prides itself on bringing the ocean world to life through a variety of interactive exhibits, including aqua scope windows and a glass tunnel beneath the fur seal tank.
Traveling to Osaka: An Oceanic Expedition
From Tokyo, visitors can use the Tokyo to Osaka train and head to the Osaka Aquarium, also known as Kaiyukan.
Here, the Pacific Ocean comes alive as you traverse through a spectacular array of marine ecosystems, each representing a specific region of the Pacific Rim.
One of the highlights of the aquarium is its large central tank that includes a variety of marine species, including a whale shark.
It’s a living, breathing testament to the beauty and diversity of marine life, where each exhibit is a portal to the richness of the underwater world.
Kyoto’s Hidden Gem
Prefer a more intimate experience when exploring the ocean world? Take the Tokyo to Kyoto train for the chance to discover another aquatic gem, the Kyoto Aquarium.
While the aquarium may be smaller than some, it still boasts plenty of charm and diversity.
Some notable attractions include the Sea of Kyoto, a massive indoor pool featuring aquatic animals found in the Kyoto Sea, and an exhibit featuring Japan’s famed giant salamander.
With an impressive variety of species to observe, and special seasonal exhibits and workshops, the Kyoto Aquarium is well worth a visit.
Toba’s Unique Aquarium Experience
This impressive aquarium is located conveniently close to Ise-Shima National Park, making it a popular choice for nature enthusiasts.
Not only does it have the largest variety of animal species of any aquarium in Japan, it’s also the only place in Asia to see a Dugong, the manatee-like species once mistaken for mermaids and sirens.
With a variety of hands-on ways to interact with the animals, including feeding times and up-close oceanic encounters, it’s a great place to visit with inquisitive kids.
Okinawa’s World-Famous Wonder
The best-known aquarium in Japan is likely the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, which was the largest aquarium in the world until 2005.
The aquarium was the first in the world to successfully breed whale sharks, and seeing these majestic creatures are still a top reason many people visit.
There are a variety of other stunning exhibits to view as well, from a section that features animals from the deep sea, to a sea turtle pool.
Just outside the aquarium, a large ocean-themed kids’ play center and the pristine sand of Emerald Beach await, making this area perfect for a full day of family fun.
Conservation and Education
As is the case with most aquariums, the aquariums of Japan have a strong focus on education and conservation.
A full 52 aquariums in Japan are members of The Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums (JAZA), an organization dedicated to conservation efforts in the country.
Through breeding programs for endangered species, and marine research to help find ways to maintain the delicate ocean ecosystem, the aquariums work to protect its animals and their natural habitat.
A Journey for All Ages
Whether you’re visiting Tokyo with kids, or planning a bigger cross-country trip with extended family, the aquariums of Japan are ideal at offering something for every age.
Children will especially enjoy how interactive the exhibits are, letting them watch dolphins at play, fish interacting with one another, and so much more.
Adults, on the other hand, are sure to be captivated by the intricate ecosystems, as well as the beauty of the various sea creatures.
The diversity of the experience at the aquariums of Japan is sure to impress adults and children alike, making them a great choice for a day of exploring.
Enchanting Marine Adventures
In true Japanese fashion, the aquariums in Japan are as artistic as they are educational.
By incorporating lighting, music, and innovative designs, they’re able to captivate visitors and create a unique aquarium experience.
This artistry is just one of the reasons that Japan’s aquariums continue to grow in popularity with each passing year.
Culinary Delights
Japan is well known for its high-class food scene, and the aquariums are no exception to that!
From casual cafes to gourmet sit-down restaurants, there’s no reason to leave the aquarium when it’s time to eat.
Some of the most notable must-try restaurants include the Ocean Blu Cafe in the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, with seating that makes you feel like you’re underwater, and the Kamo Aquarium’s various jellyfish dishes.
The aquariums of Japan are magical realms where the wonders of the ocean are revealed in all their splendor.
Whether you are on a family vacation or a solo adventure, a visit to these aquariums is a great way to take a journey through the enchanting marine world.
Every aquarium in Japan offers a unique and enriching perspective of life beneath the waves, and approaches its mission of education and conservation in a slightly different way.
So, take a look at the different aquariums and the attractions they offer, and decide which one fits your interests best.
From the mesmerizing dance of jellyfish to the playful leaps of dolphins, the aquatic wonders of Japan await to share your stories!