Shikoku Aquarium, located in the picturesque Shikoku region, offers a unique opportunity to witness the marine life that inhabits the Seto Inland Sea, the Pacific Ocean as well as species that travel on the Kuroshio (Japan Current). With over 400 species of aquatic animals on display, including adorable dolphins and beloved sea lions, the aquarium also features exhibits showcasing rare sea creatures. A must-visit spot for anyone looking for a fascinating and artistic aquarium experience, Shikoku Aquarium is especially popular among Japanese teenagers. Come explore and discover the wonders of the sea at this one-of-a-kind museum.
List of contents
●Access
●About Shikoku Aquarium
●Dine with a sea view
●Details
Access
This aquarium is conveniently located near Utazu Station (宇田津) in Kagawa Prefecture, and the best way to get there is by taking the express train Shiokaze (しおかぜ) from Okayama Station (岡山), which takes only 35 minutes.
It is recommended to purchase tickets for the express train in advance to reserve seats.
Upon arrival at Utazu Station (宇田津), visitors will immediately notice the dolphin motif, which is a clear indication of the famous aquarium nearby.
Shikoku Aquarium, an artistic aquarium in the Shikoku region
The Shikoku Aquarium boasts an attractive design, resembling that of a museum with a minimalistic approach. The adult admission fee of 2,400 yen, although a bit steep, is well worth it.
As you enter the building, you'll immediately notice a spherical object and an escalator leading to the 2nd floor. On both sides, you'll find entrances to various facilities and events inside the aquarium. Straight ahead, you'll be greeted by a seaside garden, while heading to the top floor will lead you to restaurants and other animal viewing spots, including the popular dolphin and sea lion shows.
The direction signs are creatively written on transparencies, adding to the charm of the place.
The main building of the Shikoku Aquarium features saltwater and freshwater aquatic animals, including rare species of sharks.
The aquarium consists of four tanks (Watatsumi, Sunset Sea, Uzushio, and Shark Shadow) and six zones (the Pacific Ocean, the Seto Inland Sea, the Deep Sea, Jellyfish, Freshwater, and the Active Field).
The displays are beautifully arranged, resembling a walk in a museum.
Some fish tanks are decorated like picture frames and the beautiful jellyfish zone is bound to leave you mesmerised.
The Deep Sea zone is illuminated with lights creating an ethereal atmosphere and features a large tank that mimics the ocean.
Schools of small fish and stingrays swim around in an adorable manner, with the natural light from outside blending perfectly with the ambiance inside the building's design.
Visitors can also enjoy a special zone for observing the scalloped hammerhead sharks (アカシュモクザメ).
It provides a unique perspective from below, giving the impression of being under the sea.
This area is particularly popular among Japanese teenagers, who love taking pictures at the aquarium's minimalistic and stylish photo spot, which features rounded edges and glass walls.
Make sure to catch the shows featuring the adorable sea lions and dolphins, who swim happily in their habitats.
You can clearly see the joy on their faces, right?
Even the legendary sea creature "Kappa" has a zone dedicated to it, with a space adorned with a painted illustration and a hand-written description of the Japanese mythical creature.
Kids will love the kappa figure on display at the top of this space.
As you exit, don't forget to check out the souvenir zone, which offers a wide variety of cute sea creature-themed items to choose from.
The sea creatures at the Shikoku Aquarium are simply delightful and charming, providing a warm and friendly atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
Savor a limited-edition meal with a view of the ocean
One must-try dish is the fish burger made from locally caught fish from the Shikoku Islands. The burger set comes in a box package decorated with a scalloped hammerhead shark pattern, adding a touch of cuteness to your meal.
For teenagers and young adults, the dolphin soda is a popular choice.
You can choose the color of the drink; the top is decorated with cotton candy while the bottom has dolphin-shaped jelly. It's a perfect drink to sip while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Additionally, there are plenty of other cute menu items to choose from. So, when you visit the Shikoku Aquarium, be sure to indulge in the delicious and adorable food options.
Details
Opening hours: 9:00-18:00 (last entry, 17:30)
Admission fee: Adults (16 years old and above): ¥2,400 / Students (7-15 years old): ¥1,300 / Children (3-6 years old): ¥600 / Under 2: Free of charge Official
website:https://shikoku-aquarium.jp/en/
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