【Takeshima Aquarium】 Japan’s No. 1 in Species Variety! A Deep Dive into Rare Deep-Sea Creatures

A Aquarium with a Big Collection: Approximately 500 Species Always on Display

akeshima Aquarium may be small, but it boasts a collection of about 550 species of fascinating creatures. Each exhibit is carefully curated by dedicated staff, and the displays change with the seasons.

The aquarium features exhibits such as the “Tropical Sea Creatures”, showcasing popular species like anemones and clownfish, and the “Mikawa Bay Creatures” and “Mikawa Bay Large Tank”, highlighting marine life from the local Mikawa Bay. There’s also the unique “Deep-Sea Corner”, which showcases rare species found only at Takeshima Aquarium, the interactive “Touch Pool”, the “Feeding Pool”, and many more engaging areas.

Each display comes with hand-drawn explanation panels created directly by the caretakers without supervision from higher-ups. These panels are so quirky and informative that the aquarium is often featured in media and on social networks as “Japan’s Most Entertaining Aquarium Explanations”. Be sure to read them when you visit!

Crowd Favorite! Up-Close and Thrilling Sea Lion Shows

The sea lion shows, held three times daily at 10:30 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:30 PM, are a must-see. With seating close to the stage, you can clearly see the sea lions’ movements and even hear their breaths. Each performance varies slightly, depending on the trainer, making every show unique and enjoyable.

One of the stars of the show is “Love”, a South American sea lion (Otaria) from Chile, who debuted in November 2012. Love is a veteran performer known for eagerly begging for food, making impressive jumps, and showing expressive enthusiasm. A southern fur seal is also undergoing training and may occasionally make appearances on stage or stroll near the audience after a show.

Japan’s No. 1 in Species Variety! A Deep-Sea Creature Haven

Gamagori City, where Takeshima Aquarium is located, is known as “The Town of Deep-Sea Fish”, boasting the highest catch of deep-sea fish in the prefecture. With the cooperation of local fishermen, the aquarium showcases deep-sea creatures such as giant spider crabs and giant isopods, as well as unique exhibits like the “Moray Eel Army”, which highlights the eels’ preference for confined spaces. Many creatures on display can only be found here.

The aquarium features giant spider crabs with intact legs and offers opportunities to touch deep-sea creatures in the “Touch Pool”. In April 2024, the deep-sea creature area was expanded, with new tanks added to enhance the experience. Highlights include the “Deep-Sea Shark Tank”, featuring rare species like sharpnose sevengill sharks, and the “Delicious Deep-Sea Fish Tank”, displaying edible species such as scorpionfish and splendid alfonsino. Accompanied by handwritten explanation panels, these exhibits provide an in-depth look at the wonders of deep-sea life. Additionally, the aquarium’s official YouTube channel shares tips on cooking and enjoying deep-sea fish.

Exclusive Souvenirs with a Big Impact

The aquarium shop offers a wide variety of souvenirs, including exclusive original items you won’t find anywhere else!

Among the most popular items are:

• “Super Isopod Rice Crackers”, made with giant isopods as an ingredient.
• “Super Moray Eel Sablés”, containing edible moray eel from Wakayama Prefecture.
• “Capybara Droppings”, a fun treat filled with chocolate snacks.

These unique souvenirs are perfect for surprising friends with their eye-catching packaging!

Other offerings include medaka-themed snacks, books about the aquarium’s history, a collection of popular fish profiles titled “Fish Stories”, and goods featuring the aquarium’s mascot, Takeashi-kun. Be sure to visit the shop to find the perfect memento or gift!