Kagoshima City Aquarium
Kyushu-Okinawa Region
Kagoshima City Aquarium, located in Kagoshima, Japan, is a renowned public aquarium that opened in 1997. It primarily exhibits marine life from the nearby Kagoshima Bay and the Kuroshio Current, along with brackish water and freshwater species. The aquarium is especially famous for its whale sharks, affectionately called "Yuyu," which are cared for using a unique "Kagoshima method" that involves training the sharks to return to the wild before they grow too large. The facility spans multiple floors, allowing visitors to explore various habitats including the Kuroshio Sea tank, Nansei Islands sea creatures, coastal kelp forests, and a freshwater aquarium. Noteworthy exhibits include the giant mottled eel, bottlenose dolphins, and a tropical whale skeleton. At the end of the visitor route, the "Sea of Silence" exhibit invites reflection on marine environmental issues by presenting a water-filled space without any creatures. The aquarium also features interactive elements such as a touch pool and an outdoor waterway showcasing ocean sunfish. Its architecture is inspired by the shape of a stingray, reflecting the aquarium's marine theme. Kagoshima Aquarium is a member of the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums and has welcomed over 10 million visitors since its opening, making it a significant cultural and educational attraction in the Kyushu region.
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Tip: Visit during weekdays or outside peak holiday seasons for a more relaxed experience. The aquarium extends its hours during Golden Week and summer holidays, staying open until 9 PM on weekends and holidays. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially for groups or during busy periods. Discounts are available for Kagoshima city residents and groups, and annual passes offer value for frequent visitors. The aquarium also offers special events and interactive programs, so check their official website for the latest schedules and booking information.
Interesting facts
- •Kagoshima Aquarium is the first in Japan to successfully feed and display Chinese sturgeon in saltwater tanks.
- •The aquarium uses a unique "Kagoshima method" to raise whale sharks and release them back into the wild before they grow too large.
- •The whale sharks kept at the aquarium are affectionately named "Yuyu" and have become popular attractions.
- •The aquarium's architecture is inspired by the shape of a stingray.
- •The "Sea of Silence" exhibit contains only water and no marine creatures to encourage reflection on marine environmental issues.
History
Kagoshima City Aquarium opened on May 30, 1997, with a project cost of approximately 12.7 billion yen.
It was designed with an exterior inspired by a stingray.
The aquarium was the first in Japan to successfully breed and display Chinese sturgeon in saltwater conditions.
Over the years, it has become known for its innovative "Kagoshima method" of raising whale sharks and releasing them back into the wild, contributing to marine research.
By October 2011, the aquarium had welcomed over 10 million visitors, marking its importance as a regional cultural institution.
Place Guide
Kuroshio Large Aquarium
A massive tank holding 1.5 million liters of water showcasing whale sharks, Rhina ancylostoma, spotted eagle rays, Chinese sturgeon, bluefin tuna, and other species native to the Kuroshio Current.
Nansei Islands Sea Exhibit
Displays marine species from the Nansei Islands such as giant grouper, damselfish, butterflyfish, coral, and comatulida.
Sea of Kagoshima Exhibit
Features coastal marine life including spider crabs, moray eels, spiny lobsters, flounders, and bullhead sharks, representing local Kagoshima Bay biodiversity.
Observation Hall
Offers a view of Sakurajima volcano across the bay and houses a whole-body skeleton specimen of a tropical bottlenose whale.
Satsumahaorimushi Corner
Dedicated area showcasing the unique local species Satsumahaorimushi, an endemic marine organism.
Coastal Kelp Forest Aquarium
Recreates the kelp forest ecosystem of the Kagoshima coast, featuring species like Pandaka and various seaweed.
Freshwater Aquarium
Exhibits freshwater species including Vallisneria asiatica, Oryzias fish, Caridina multidentata shrimp, and other freshwater shrimp.
Life of Jellyfish Exhibit
Displays moon jellyfish and spotted jellyfish, highlighting their ethereal beauty and ecological importance.
Giant Mottled Eel Aquarium
Features giant mottled eels and flagtail fish in a specialized habitat.
Mangrove Aquarium
Showcases species adapted to mangrove environments such as Terapon jarbua and mudskippers, illustrating brackish water ecosystems.
Seal Aquarium
Houses spotted seals, providing educational insight into these marine mammals.
Dolphin Pool
Home to bottlenose dolphins with regular shows and educational programs.
Touch Pool
Interactive exhibit where visitors can touch starfish and sea cucumbers, enhancing engagement with marine life.
Outdoor Waterway
An outdoor exhibit featuring ocean sunfish and mahi-mahi, offering a glimpse of open ocean species.
Contact
Phone: 099-226-2233