Toba Aquarium: A Wet and Wild Adventure for the Whole Family
If you’re fascinated by the open water and all the amazing creatures that reside there, 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 — that’s more than any other aquarium in Japan — across 12 themed zones covering everything from freshwater rivers in Japan to the rainforests of the Amazon. And that’s not all: there are daily performances, feedings and penguin walks, too.
Toba Aquarium: A Homage to Aquatic Diversity
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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.
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Time your trip right and you may even catch a 700-kilo sea lion diving into the water next to you!
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Time your trip right and you may even catch a 700-kilo sea lion diving into the water next to you!
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Meanwhile, in the Curious Creatures Laboratory, you can find giant isopods and even translucent spiny lobster larvae — something you may not see elsewhere — and other fascinating creatures in the deep sea and beyond.
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The Coral Reef Diving area is aptly named — this 8-meter-wide coral tank surrounds you from almost all sides, making it feel like you’re submerged in the sea. It’s a truly surreal experience.
These are just some of the things you’ll experience and see — much more awaits!
Education Meets Entertainment
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While creating a fun and fascinating environment is an important part of Toba Aquarium’s work, so is educating the visitors. The sea lion and walrus shows, sea otter and marine mammal feedings and the penguin walks serve to both delight and give insight. Animal keepers explain the animals’ habits in captivity while showcasing the characteristics of the individuals in their care. It’s a great way to pick up some fun facts and pique kids’ interest in the world around them.
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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 these on site, or via the aquarium blog and on Toba Aquarium’s social media.
Cute New Additions to Toba Aquarium
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Toba Aquarium saw a number of new additions in 2021. 16-year-old veteran May — an adorable sea otter — got a new roommate, Kira, on March 17, 2021. 12-year-old Kira moved from Adventure World in Wakayama and the two quickly made friends. You’ll see them floating around their pool holding paws, grooming themselves and getting up to silly antics together. The pair are especially lively at feeding time and gobble down clams, squid and other scrumptious treats with gusto.
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The aquarium also welcomed three of newly hatched baby Humboldt penguins in January. These adorable youngsters were at first hard to spot as their parents were protective of them, but as they gradually gain independence, visitors can see them waddling around and exploring their surroundings.
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Another recent addition to the Toba Aquarium family is a baby South African Fur Seal, born in May. Mother Ran is apparently quite the character and a popular member of the sea lion show, but at the time of writing is enjoying some quiet time with her baby away from the crowds. The aquarium hasn’t announced when they’ll be viewable to the public, but you can follow the progress of mom and baby on the aquarium website and social media.
Toba Aquarium: Good to Know Before You Go
There are two restaurants on site: Hana Sango, a restaurant that serves tekone-zushi (a local Ise-Shima specialty) and other sumptuous dishes and Restaurant Bayside, simple diner-style eatery with lighter dishes and a view of the ocean. There are also two souvenir shops selling plush toys, local Ise-Shima specialties and other goodies, too.
