Otaru Aquarium

Right after entering the aquarium, there is a small pool where both Loggerhead Sea Turtles and Green Sea Turtles greet visitors.

As you proceed into the tank area, you’ll encounter large tanks featuring majestic stingrays, sharks, and other creatures swimming gracefully. In particular, the stingrays, which often flip over and swim in a fluttering manner, are charming and endearing.

Further along, you’ll find a deep cylindrical pool where Harbour Porpoise, a type of dolphin,  are kept. These dolphins are native to the waters off Hokkaido, but are extremely rare in captivity, making this a unique opportunity to observe them up close.

The aquarium also showcases creatures that are becoming increasingly rare in Hokkaido, including endangered species. As you explore the tanks, take the time to compare the information on display and search for these fascinating creatures.

There is also an area dedicated to fish living in the cold and dark northern seas, like the formidable Wolf Fish and Ito (the largest freshwater fish in Japan), as well as a bright tank displaying the marine life of warmer southern seas.

Separating these two sections is a Japanese Otter tank, connected by both an above-ground and underwater tunnel. You can watch the adorable otters move through the tunnel, showing off their paw pads, or swim swiftly as they explore their environment.

At the end of the southern fish section, you'll find a massive circular tank that offers a 360° view, allowing you to feel as though you’re actually swimming in the waters of the Okhotsk Sea or Bering Sea, watching the fish swim gracefully around you.

In the marine mammal area facing the sea, actual ocean space is used as part of the enclosures. Because of this, wild Steller sea lions often come by to play, and seagulls sometimes interrupt during the 'Penguin Walk.'

Unlike other aquariums, the focus here isn’t on showing off trained animals performing tricks, but rather on providing a free environment where visitors can observe the creatures living naturally. The aim is to inspire interest in nature and marine life.

There are also many other highlights, such as the new "Coral and Mangrove Sea" section introduced in 2023, and the touch zone "Touch Ezone" where you can interact with marine life native to Hokkaido.

The aquarium also offers nursing rooms and resting areas, making it a great spot to visit with small children. There is also a well-stocked souvenir shop, and just a short walk away is the Shukutsu Marineland (Amusement Park), open from 24 April, making the area a popular destination for families and couples on weekends. If you prefer a more relaxed visit, we recommend coming on weekdays.

Access to Otaru Aquarium

3-303 Shukutsu, Otaru City

• By Hokkaido Chuo Bus: Take the “Otaru Aquarium” line from JR Otaru Station (approx. 25 minutes).
• By Ferry: Take the Shukutsu Port ferry from the 3rd Wharf at Otaru Port (operates in summer).
  
  Note: Hours of operation vary by season, so please check the website for details.