Otaru Aquarium: Explore Fascinating Marine Life at Otaru’s Attraction

Otaru Aquarium: A Treasure Trove of Marine Life

Located in the charming city of Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan, Otaru Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for both marine enthusiasts and families. This aquarium offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating world beneath the seas, featuring an astounding assortment of marine life and interactive exhibits.

History and Development

Otaru Aquarium was initially built in 1958 as a marine venue for the Hokkaido Grand Exposition and began operations in 1959 as the Otaru Municipal Aquarium. Over the years, it has undergone significant expansions, with the current main building opening in 1974. The aquarium is now managed by the Otaru Aquarium Public Corporation, a third-sector corporation, and is accredited as a Museum-equivalent facility by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.

Exhibits and Attractions

Main Building and Exhibits

The main building of Otaru Aquarium houses a wide variety of fish and shellfish, showcasing approximately 5,000 sea creatures of around 250 species. The aquarium features several notable exhibits, including the "Honobono Pool" where harbor porpoises reside, and the "360-Degree Fish Tank" which replicates the environments of the Sea of Okhotsk and Bering Sea.

Dolphin Stadium

The Dolphin Stadium is a highlight of the aquarium, offering dynamic dolphin and sea lion shows. These performances are not only entertaining but also educational, providing insights into the behavior and potential of these marine mammals.

Marine Mammals Park

The Marine Mammals Park is an outdoor exhibit located along the natural rocky shore. Here, visitors can see sea lions, seals, and sea eagles in a natural habitat created by partitioning off part of the sea. This unique setting allows seaweed like konbu to grow abundantly, and sea creatures such as sea urchins and sea cucumbers inhabit the pool.

Interactive Experiences

Otaru Aquarium offers several interactive experiences, including the opportunity to feed seals. Visitors can purchase feed for the seals, which include Ohoktsk atka mackerel or saffron cod, and interact with these marine animals up close. Additionally, the aquarium features touch pools where visitors can get hands-on experience with marine life.

Research and Conservation Efforts

Otaru Aquarium is actively involved in research and conservation activities. Notably, it has achieved significant milestones, such as successfully breeding ringed seals and harbor porpoises. One notable example is Jirokichi, a male harbor porpoise that lived at the aquarium for 24 years, setting the world record for the longest breeding record of a harbor porpoise.

Planning Your Visit

Operating Hours and Admission

The aquarium operates from spring to November, with extended hours during special events. During winter, it remains open in conjunction with local festivals. Admission fees vary by age, with adults paying 1,800 yen, elementary and junior high school students paying 700 yen, and children aged 3-5 paying 350 yen.

Getting There

Otaru Aquarium is accessible by car or bus from Otaru Station. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes by car, and there are buses available as an alternative means of transport.

Facilities and Accessibility

The aquarium offers various facilities, including a parking lot with 1,000 spaces, credit card payment options, and wheelchair accessibility. It also provides Wi-Fi and smoking areas. The aquarium is suitable for families and is enjoyable even on rainy days.

Special Events and Shows

Otaru Aquarium hosts a variety of shows and events throughout the year. These include the dynamic dolphin and sea lion shows, the Penguin Walk where penguins walk from their enclosure to the ocean, and the Walrus Feeding Time. The schedule for these events can be checked on the aquarium's website to plan your visit accordingly.

By visiting Otaru Aquarium, you can experience the rich diversity of marine life, engage in interactive exhibits, and support important conservation efforts, making it a memorable and educational destination for all.