If you are looking for something to do for a relaxing day and don’t want to worry about the weather, I would recommend a visit to Shinagawa Aquarium. The aquarium is very popular among the Japanese, especially on weekends. Shinagawa area has many rivers that connect to the ocean, so the highlights of this aquarium mainly focus on these two different aquatic environments and the creatures that inhabit them. The aquarium has collected all these creatures together in one place for us to admire.
At the aquarium entrance, there is a beautiful garden that is perfect for relaxing. I got there in the afternoon and saw many families and couples enjoying some soft ice cream on the grounds. The ticket booth is just past the garden. (Entrance fee is ¥1,350 for adults, ¥600 for high school students and ¥300 for children aged 4-12 years old). Visitors can purchase their tickets from both the ticket counter and from vending machines just off to the side.
The aquarium consists of two floors, providing multiple different viewpoints of the various sea creatures. Great efforts have been made to showcase both typical Shinagawa sea life as well as more exotic sea creatures. The highlight of this place is the ‘Tunnel Water Tank’, which is the home of 900 sea creatures (around 60 different species) in a tunnel about 22 meters long. Along the route, you can see many sea creatures swimming overhead in a 180 degree view. Further along in the exhibit, there are many tall fish tanks that provide visitors a look at the various sea creatures up close. Two that have received much attention are the albino salamander and the jellyfish. It’s so much fun just to watch them swim around. In addition, there is a tunnel on the first floor that allows visitors to see seals swimming freely. Their cuteness makes them a popular draw!
If you have the time to spare, I recommend you spend at least 2-3 hours here. Be sure to check the showtime schedule. There are many shows throughout the day, ranging from jumping dolphins and playful seals to intelligent sea lions and a feeding show. The detailed schedules are in free the pamphlet that available at the entrance. All the shows take place on the first floor.
I recommend you arrive at least twenty minute in advance to reserve your spot because when I got there, all the seats were taken. Prior to the show, the staff will provide some knowledge on the behavior of the animals. I had a chance to see the dolphin show. They are very intelligent and their antics had the audience laughing throughout the performance. If you walk towards the exit, you will see the shark showcase. I heard someone exclaim in horror every time these creatures swam close because of their massive size and they were only a piece of clear glass away.
After you have been through every zone, why not stop by the ‘Restaurant Dolphin’ next door? The restaurant is built over the water and has glass windows all around so you can enjoy the views. There are both main courses and sweets on the menu. A popular choice is the ‘Jumping Dolphin Parfait’ for ¥771.
