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Toba Aquarium – Mie

Toba Aquarium, located in Toba City, Mie Prefecture, is one of Japan’s largest and most famous aquariums. Opened in 1955, it houses over 1,200 species of marine and aquatic animals — the highest number in Japan. It’s especially known for its rare and exotic animals, hands-on exhibits, and research efforts.

Key Features

12 Themed Zones

  • The aquarium is divided into 12 unique zones, each focusing on a different environment or theme:

    • Ancient Sea

    • Coral Reef Diving

    • Sea of Ise-Shima

    • Jungle World

    • Polar Zone

    • And more!

No Fixed Route

  • Unlike most aquariums, Toba Aquarium has no set route, so visitors can explore freely at their own pace.

Famous Animals

Dugong

  • Toba Aquarium is the only aquarium in Japan that keeps a dugong, a rare and gentle marine mammal said to have inspired mermaid legends.

Sea Otters

  • Watch playful sea otters swim and snack — a favorite for kids and adults alike!

Giant Sea Turtles, Manatees, Capybaras & More

  • The aquarium features a wide variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic creatures from all over the world.

Research & Conservation

  • The aquarium is involved in marine research, rescue, and breeding programs.

  • It supports conservation efforts for endangered species and helps rehabilitate injured marine animals.

Educational & Fun

  • Interactive exhibits for hands-on learning

  • Live feeding shows and staff talks

  • Family-friendly environment for all ages

Access

  • About a 10-minute walk from Toba Station (JR or Kintetsu Line)

  • By car: Parking is available

  • Great to combine with visits to nearby attractions like:

    • Mikimoto Pearl Island

    • Ise Grand Shrine (Ise Jingu)

    • Toba Sea-Folk Museum

Why Visit Toba Aquarium?

  • See over 1,200 species in one place

  • Meet Japan’s only dugong

  • Explore freely without a fixed route

  • Perfect for families, couples, and marine life lovers

  • Learn about oceans, animals, and conservation

Toba Aquarium is more than just an aquarium — it’s a place to discover, learn, and be amazed by the wonders of aquatic life from Japan and around the world.

Related articles

Official Website
https://aquarium.co.jp/en/

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Agoda

Expedia

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