Shimane Aquarium - Aquas

Must Do Experiences

• Watch the mesmerizing beluga whale show and marvel at their signature bubble-ring blowing trick.

• Stroll through the massive main tank tunnel to see sharks, rays, and vibrant fish swimming directly overhead.

• Explore the interactive touch pools and educational exhibits designed to teach visitors about local marine ecosystems.

Hidden Gems

• Seek out the rare giant spider crabs and deep-sea creatures housed in the specialized cold-water exhibits that many visitors breeze past.

• Enjoy the scenic ocean views from the outdoor coastal walking paths located just outside the main aquarium building.

• Visit the penguin enclosure during feeding time for an up-close look at their playful underwater acrobatics.

What Makes it Special

• It is one of the few aquariums in Japan where you can witness the highly intelligent beluga whales performing unique bubble-ring tricks.

• The facility is beautifully integrated into the natural coastal landscape of Hamada, offering breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan alongside the exhibits.

• Spacious, meticulously recreated natural ocean environments provide a stress-free habitat for the animals and an immersive experience for guests.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is on a weekday morning right when the doors open at 09:00 to avoid the weekend family crowds and secure front-row seats for the whale shows. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for combining your aquarium visit with a stroll along the nearby Shimane coastline.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Position yourself near the center of the main acrylic tunnel to capture stunning, unobstructed silhouettes of sharks and rays gliding overhead.

• Turn off your flash and use a fast shutter speed or stabilize your camera against the glass to get sharp images of the fast-moving beluga whales.

• The outdoor coastal areas provide excellent natural lighting during the golden hour just before sunset for beautiful architectural and ocean backdrop shots.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese aquariums are generally quiet, contemplative spaces, so visitors are expected to keep their voices down and avoid tapping on the glass to prevent stressing the animals. It is also customary to queue neatly and wait your turn at interactive exhibits and touch pools, ensuring a respectful environment for everyone.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• During the summer Obon festival, the aquarium often hosts special evening illumination events and extended hours for a magical nighttime underwater experience.

• In winter, look out for special penguin walks and seasonal feeding demonstrations that celebrate the cold-water marine life of the Sea of Japan.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a close eye on young children near the large open-top tanks and touch pools to prevent accidental slips or falls into the water.

• Be mindful of the dimly lit corridors in the deep-sea exhibit zones and watch your step to avoid tripping in the lower-light environments.