Discover the wonders of Japan’s marine life at Otaru Aquarium, a hidden gem in Hokkaido’s picturesque port town of Otaru. This aquarium offers a memorable experience with over 250 species and 5,000 sea creatures, including rays, sea turtles, and the rare harbor porpoise. Visitors enjoy panoramic tanks, lively dolphin shows, and seasonal events like the enchanting Penguin Snow Walk in winter. The Marine Mammal Park, featuring sea lions and seals in a natural seawater pool, offers an up-close glimpse of Japan’s northern ocean life, making Otaru Aquarium a unique, year-round destination for travelers.

Basic Information about Otaru Aquarium

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Location and Access

Located in Otaru, a beautiful port town in northern Japan’s Hokkaido, Otaru Aquarium offers a chance to experience the area’s coastal charm. The aquarium is easily accessible, situated only 15 minutes by car from Otaru Canal and about 30 minutes from Sapporo by rapid train. Otaru itself is known for its historic architecture and fresh seafood, making a visit to the aquarium a fantastic addition to any itinerary.

Fish Species on Display and Key Attractions

Otaru Aquarium houses approximately 250 species and 5,000 marine creatures. A highlight is the large panoramic tank, where visitors can feel immersed in Japan’s Sea as rays and sea turtles swim around. The aquarium also features dolphin, penguin, and walrus shows, which provide thrilling entertainment for all ages.

Highlights for Foreign Tourists

Exciting Shows at the Marine Mammal Park

One attraction that foreign visitors love is the Marine Mammal Park, a vast pool within the natural sea environment where sea lions and seals perform dynamic shows. When up to six sea lions dive together, cameras capture the moment! The animals’ natural behaviors and carefully designed habitats make the show memorable, while the park, as part of a national conservation area, promotes sustainable viewing.

Underground Viewing in the Dolphin Stadium

Otaru Aquarium’s Dolphin Stadium is particularly popular for its unique underground viewing area, where visitors can watch dolphins swim and jump from below. This fresh perspective adds a magical dimension for foreign tourists, offering an intimate view of the dolphins’ graceful movements as if observing them in the open sea.

Benefits of Visiting Otaru Aquarium

Seasonal Programs and Winter Operations

Otaru Aquarium operates in winter and offers special seasonal programs. A must-see in winter is the “Penguin Snow Walk,” where penguins wander freely in the snow, creating a magical winter wonderland.

Majestic Marine Creatures of Hokkaido

Otaru Aquarium’s sea lion and seal shows provide an up-close look at Hokkaido’s magnificent marine wildlife. The synchronized sea lion dives showcase nature’s power and beauty, while the harbor porpoise exhibit offers a rare chance to see this unique species, native to Hokkaido.

Unique Facilities Bringing the Ocean Closer

Natural Seawater Pools

One unique feature is the aquarium’s use of natural seawater pools, which house sea lions and seals. This setup allows visitors to observe the animals’ natural behavior in a close-to-wild setting, while the pools also contain a variety of other sea creatures like kelp, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers, reflecting the region’s rich ecosystem.

Rare Marine Life on Display

Otaru Aquarium also features the rare harbor porpoise, a small cetacean native to Hokkaido. Being the only aquarium in Japan to exhibit this protected species, Otaru Aquarium draws many visitors eager for this special viewing opportunity.

Conclusion

The Experiential Value of Visiting Otaru Aquarium

Otaru Aquarium, situated in Otaru, Hokkaido, offers a fascinating experience, especially for international visitors. The aquarium is renowned for its diverse marine life and unique displays. Highlights include the graceful swimming of rays and sea turtles in the panoramic tank and the powerful sea lion dives. Winter brings special programs, like the Penguin Snow Walk, showcasing the charm of Japan’s seasonal nature.

In sum, Otaru Aquarium is a must-visit destination, blending marine appreciation with an immersive experience of Japanese culture and natural beauty. Here, your visit promises not just sightseeing but an unforgettable experience.