Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium: A Unique Experience Worth Exploring

Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium offers a unique and engaging experience for visitors of all ages, featuring an impressive array of penguin species and interactive exhibits. Located in Nagasaki City, this specialized aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life and penguins.

Location and Access

The Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium is conveniently located at 3-16 Shuku-machi, Nagasaki City, making it easily accessible by public transportation. From JR Nagasaki Station, visitors can take the bus bound for "Aba" or "Kasuga Shako-Mae" and get off at the "Penguin Suizokukan-Mae" bus stop. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, followed by a short walk to the aquarium.

Exhibits and Highlights

Penguin Species and Exhibits

The aquarium is home to around 180 penguins across nine different species, showcasing nearly half of the world's penguin species. One of the main attractions is the "Subantarctic Penguin Pool," one of the largest in Japan, with a depth of 4 meters where penguins swim effortlessly. The "Temperate Penguin Zone" offers varied perspectives to observe penguin behavior up close, and visitors can also see the world's smallest penguin species, the Little Penguin.

Interactive and Special Events

A standout feature of the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium is the "Fureai Penguin Beach" event, held on weekends and holidays. This unique event allows visitors to see penguins swimming in the natural sea next to the facility, providing an opportunity to watch, touch, and feed the penguins in a semi-natural environment.

Other Marine Life and Biotope Zone

In addition to penguins, the aquarium features other marine creatures such as the world's largest freshwater fish, the Mekong giant catfish, schools of Japanese anchovies, and various marine species from Nagasaki's waters. The outdoor "Biotope Zone" replicates Nagasaki's rural and waterside environments, where visitors can observe seasonal plants, fish, and insects.

Facilities and Amenities

Viewing Areas and Photography

The aquarium offers multi-level viewing areas, making it easy for visitors, including children, to observe the animals. The dive tank is particularly impressive, showing underwater swimming, and the outdoor areas have no barriers, making for good photography opportunities. However, some tanks may have water spots or glare, which can be challenging for photography.

Food and Gift Shop

The aquarium has a small cafeteria offering a decent selection of drinks and light meals, although the options are limited. The gift shop, while small, is well-stocked with penguin-themed merchandise, mainly geared towards children but also including some items for adults.

Safety and Cleanliness

The aquarium maintains high standards of cleanliness and safety. However, it is worth noting that the low exhibit walls and glass could pose a safety hazard to children if they lean over them.

Practical Information

Hours and Admission

The Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours until 6:00 PM in August. Admission prices are very reasonable, with adults paying 520 yen and children (ages 3 and up) and elementary/middle school students paying 310 yen. Children under 3 and senior citizens who are residents of Nagasaki City enjoy free admission.

Foreign Language Support and Re-entry

Brochures and on-site signage are available in English, Korean, and Chinese, although staff guidance is not provided in these languages. Visitors can re-enter the premises by re-presenting their admission ticket. Free WiFi is available throughout the facility, and coin lockers are provided for convenience.

Tips for Visitors

• Plan Your Visit: Given the aquarium's popularity, it's advisable to plan your visit during weekdays if possible to avoid crowds.
• Photography: Be prepared for some challenges with photography due to water spots and glare in certain tanks.
• Interactive Activities: Take advantage of the interactive activities such as feeding and petting the penguins, which are especially enjoyable for children.
• Quiet Areas: Utilize the outdoor portions and dead-end areas for quieter moments to rest and appreciate the surroundings.

By offering a unique blend of interactive exhibits, diverse marine life, and special events, the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium ensures a memorable experience for all visitors.