【Toba Aquarium】Meet the Only Manatee in Japan
- PREFECTURE
- MIE
- INTEREST
- ZOO
(Last admission is one hour before closing time)
Elementary & Junior High School Students: 1,600 yen
3 years old and above: 800 yen
The History of Toba Aquarium
Toba Aquarium, which houses around 1,200 species, started in 1955 with an 80-ton open tank on land and a “natural aquarium” along the coastline with corridors. About two years later, a full-fledged aquarium facility with a circulating tank was completed, becoming a hub for Ise-Shima tourism. In the year of its 10th anniversary, the Fish Hospital was completed, attracting attention, and leading to a dramatic improvement in the facilities. The sea lion show also began, and the Marine Stadium, a marine mammal facility with a 400-ton pool, was completed.
In 1994, after 35 years of history, the New Toba Aquarium was finally completed. The size of the aquarium was expanded to about four times its original size, allowing it to accommodate even more diverse creatures.
Meet rare creatures and adorable marine animals that can only be found here in Japan
Among the countless species present, let’s introduce a few must-see creatures. First and foremost, the dugong, which is also the mascot of Toba Aquarium. The only other aquarium in the world this precious creature can be found is Sydney Aquarium. It is said to have been the model for mermaid legends in the West, and it feeds on seagrasses in shallow waters. Looking at its gentle mouth and small eyes will make you feel warm and fuzzy.
The small dolphin (finless porpoise) is very intelligent, and it may come close to you if you stare at it from the front of the tank. Its face looks like it’s smiling, which is charming.
Although a bit scary due to their large size, the walruses are extremely popular. In addition to their powerful presence, they also perform shows where they blow bubbles, play the harmonica, and teach about walruses.
Don’t forget the giant isopod, which sparked a great deal of interest after it was revealed one had been fasting for several years. It’s actually a relative of the giant pill bug with a body length of over 30 cm, but its alien-like appearance is unforgettable once you see it.
The adorable Alaskan sea otter is also a must see. Watching them crack open shells on their bellies during mealtime is incredibly soothing, and their playful swimming is irresistible.
The fishing cat, a rare sight in Japan, is characterized by its webbed front paws. In the wild, it skillfully catches fish to eat, and its name comes from the word “fishing” (suna-dori in Japanese).
To make sure you don’t miss any fascinating creatures, it’s a good idea to research them on the website beforehand.
Exciting powerful performances and adorable feeding scenes
When visiting an aquarium, you can’t miss the shows. Toba Aquarium’s main attraction is the sea lion show held in a venue with a domed roof. The show is held four times a day at the Performance Stadium. It starts with greetings from the sea lions and their trainers, followed by a variety of acts, such as jumping through hoops, dancing to music, and playing catch. You’ll be impressed by the excellent interaction between the trainers and sea lions.
In the Walrus Encounter Time, you can learn about the walrus’s unique whiskers and mysterious ecology. Both adults and children will be excited by their large bodies and distinct calls! In the same area, there is also a penguin walk, where penguins march right in front of you. Their waddling walk is simply irresistible.
Feeding times for the animals are also popular. In the Polar Sea area, you can watch sea otters eat shellfish and fish on their bellies three times a day. During the morning and evening feeding times, the Squid Ear Jump, where they jump to catch squid attached to a glass, is very popular! Don’t miss the feeding scenes of marine mammals, such as the seals and sea lions in the Marine Mammal Kingdom. These feeding events occur twice a day, so make sure to catch them.
(Please note that there may be entrance restrictions or event cancellations due to infection prevention measures, so be sure to check beforehand.)
Satisfy both your heart and stomach at the restaurants and souvenir shops
There are two souvenir shops and two restaurants within the aquarium. The restaurant Hana Sango is located opposite a large tank that recreates a coral reef sea and offers a variety of dishes catering to women’s tastes. You can enjoy curry rice that is inspired by the popular sea otter or a juicy and satisfying roast beef plate. Bayside is a cafeteria-style restaurant, where you can order dishes at the counter. Enjoy casual meals, such as the Ise specialty Ise Udon. The view of Toba Bay below is also a must see.
The Main Shop is a souvenir shop that offers a variety of Ise-Shima sweets, local products, stuffed animals, and keychains. It is located near the central entrance, so be sure to stop by on your way out. The Plaza Shop is filled with original goods and cute miscellaneous items. As you stroll around the aquarium and find your favorite creatures, why not search for motif goods inspired by them?
MIE
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