【Ise Sea Paradise】An Aquarium Where You Can Meet Animals at “Zero Distance”

Heart-to-Heart Encounters — Experience “Zero Distance” with Marine Life

t Ise Sea Paradise, the main attraction is the chance to interact with animals at astonishingly close range — so close it feels like there’s no barrier at all.

Unlike typical aquariums where you observe animals through glass, here you can meet them almost face-to-face. During feeding times, you can watch sea lions and walruses perform lively shows with their trainers, full of humor, intelligence, and personality. Visitors can’t help but smile and cheer.

You can also shake hands with otters, feeling their tiny, warm palms — a surprisingly moving experience for many. Another fan favorite is gently touching the soft, marshmallow-like body of a spotted seal or watching it relax and roll around, perfect for adorable photo moments.

These intimate encounters let you truly feel the warmth, presence, and breath of living creatures — something no TV screen can replicate. For children, it’s an inspiring learning experience; for adults, a source of healing and delight.

From Majestic Walruses to Charming Penguins

Every marine animal at Ise Sea Paradise has its own unique charm.

The star of the show is the walrus, weighing over 600 kilograms. Despite its size, it captivates visitors with surprisingly expressive movements and playful antics. Its dynamic yet comical performances alongside trainers never fail to draw laughter and applause.

Next up is the Steller sea lion, gracefully gliding through the pool with power and speed. Though it may look intimidating at first, it’s actually full of charm and energy — a crowd favorite among children.

The spotted seal, with its gentle eyes and soft body, brings soothing comfort to anyone who watches it swim. And in the Penguin Forest, visitors can observe penguins waddling adorably just a few steps away — every moment a perfect photo opportunity.

Each animal has its own personality, offering visitors a chance to connect with marine life in an authentic and memorable way.

From the Seas of Ise to Tropical Waters — A World of Discovery

The aquarium’s fish exhibits are just as captivating as its sea mammals.

Colorful tropical species such as the bright red Sen-nendai snapper and the cute, sand-burrowing garden eels fascinate visitors with their beauty and behavior.

In the Seahorse Zone, you’ll find one of Japan’s largest collections of seahorse species — a symbol of good fortune. You can also try the popular “Doctor Fish” experience (Garra rufa), where tiny fish gently nibble on your hands for a ticklish, relaxing sensation.

These exhibits are designed not only to “show” but to connect, learn, and feel, with detailed information panels and staff-made explanations that make marine life come alive.

Meoto Yokocho — Taste and Treasures of Ise

Between animal encounters, take a break at Meoto Yokocho, a charming dining and shopping area within the same complex.

Here you can enjoy Ise’s famous local cuisine, including seafood rice bowls, set meals featuring fresh local fish, and Ise udon, a beloved regional specialty. The casual, family-friendly eateries make it easy to relax between sightseeing spots. Sweet treats and light snacks are also available, perfect for a quick stop.

In the shop area, you’ll find a wide variety of original goods and souvenirs, including plush toys and accessories inspired by the aquarium’s most popular residents. Walrus and otter-themed items are especially popular as keepsakes of the “zero-distance” experience, loved by visitors of all ages. Seasonal limited-edition products and exclusive gifts make souvenir shopping here a highlight of any Ise trip.

:Facility details are accurate at the time of publication. For the latest information, please visit the official website.