Toba Aquarium: A Wet and Wild Adventure for the Whole Family

If you’re fascinated by the ocean and all the amazing creatures that live in it, then a visit to Toba Aquarium is a must. Opened in 1955, this facility has spent over 65 years educating and entertaining visitors from all over the world. Here you’ll find over 1,200 species of fish, mammals and more, spread across 12 themed zones showcasing everything from Japan’s freshwater rivers to the Amazon rainforests. That’s more than any other aquarium in Japan. And that’s not all; there are daily performances, feedings and even penguin walks.

Written by Lisa Wallin
*Information reflects conditions at the time of publication (2021).

Toba Aquarium: An Homage to Aquatic Diversity

Toba Aquarium’s many zones bring you closer to the creatures of the ocean, rivers, and lakes in unexpected ways. Marine Mammal Kingdom, recently renovated in 2018, allows you to walk through a transparent tunnel, with seals and sea lions frolicking under your feet.

If you time your trip right, you may even see a 700-kilo sea lion diving into the water right next to you!

Say hello to Toba Aquarium’s beloved resident dugong!

Meanwhile, in the Curious Creatures Laboratory, you can find giant isopods and even translucent spiny lobster larvae, and other unusual deep-sea creatures you’re unlikely to encounter anywhere else.

The Coral Reef Diving area is aptly named. This 8-meter-wide coral tank surrounds you on almost all sides, creating the surreal sensation of actually being underwater.

And that’s just the beginning. There’s so much more to see!

Education Meets Entertainment

While creating a fun and fascinating environment is important for Toba Aquarium, educating the visitors is equally important. The sea lion and walrus shows, sea otter and marine mammal feedings, and the penguin walks are designed not only to delight but to inform. Keepers explain the animals’ behavior in captivity while highlighting the personalities of those under their care. It’s a great way to pick up some fun facts and spark kids’ curiosity about the natural world.

©TOBA AQUARIUM

Did you know sea otters can jump up to 1.5 meters in the air, straight out of the water? You do now! You can learn more facts like this at the aquarium, on its blog, or on its social media channels.

Meet the Stars of Toba Aquarium

In 2021, Toba Aquarium welcomed a number of new arrivals. May, a 16-year-old veteran sea otter, got a new roommate, Kira, on March 17. Twelve-year-old Kira moved from Adventure World in Wakayama, and the two quickly bonded. You’ll see them floating around their pool holding paws, grooming themselves, or getting up to playful mischief together. They’re especially energetic at feeding time, when they gobble up clams, squid and other scrumptious treats with gusto.

Three baby Humboldt penguins also hatched in January 2021. At first, these adorable babies were hard to spot because their parents were very protective of them, but as they’ve grown more independent, visitors can now see them waddling around and exploring their surroundings.

A South African Fur Seal pup was born in May 2021. Its mother, Ran, famous for her lively personality and sea lion show appearances, spent that time quietly caring for her newborn behind the scenes. The aquarium hadn’t yet announced when the two would be on display, but updates were available on its website and social media.

Toba Aquarium: Good to Know Before You Go

There are two restaurants on site. Hana Sango serves tekone-zushi (a local Ise-Shima specialty) and other sumptuous dishes, while Restaurant Bayside offers simpler diner-style meals with a view of the ocean. There are also two souvenir shops selling plush toys, local Ise-Shima specialties, and more.

For up-to-date information on ticket prices, show schedules, access, and other details, check the official website. You can also check in and see what May, Kira and all their friends at Toba Aquarium are up to on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and on YouTube.