Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa

Must Do Experiences

• Witness the spectacular dolphin show featuring acrobatic jumps perfectly synchronized with dynamic lighting and sound effects.

• Stroll through the magical Jellyfish Ramble where translucent creatures float amidst ever-changing, mood-setting illuminated projections.

• Interact directly with friendly marine life at the hands-on touch pools for a fun and educational close-up encounter.

• Explore the immersive underwater tunnel where majestic sharks and rays glide gracefully above your head.

Hidden Gems

• The aquarium transforms completely after sunset with special night-time lighting and projection mapping that creates a romantic, club-like atmosphere.

• Look out for the hidden capybara exhibits and the rare Japanese giant salamander tucked away in the freshwater zones.

• Visit the rooftop terrace area for a unique view of the Shinagawa skyline, which is often overlooked by guests rushing between indoor exhibits.

What Makes it Special

• It is one of the few aquariums in the world that seamlessly integrates high-tech projection mapping and sound design directly into the animal habitats and shows.

• The central Tokyo location inside the Shinagawa Prince Hotel makes it incredibly accessible and perfect for a quick escape from the bustling city streets.

• Seasonal overlays mean the entire aesthetic of the park, from the jellyfish tanks to the dolphin shows, changes dramatically throughout the year.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Weekday mornings right at opening time offer the most peaceful experience with minimal crowds, allowing you to enjoy the exhibits at your own pace. For the most spectacular visual experience, visit during the late afternoon and stay until after sunset when the park transitions into its stunning night-time illumination mode. Avoid Japanese national holidays and the Obon or Golden Week periods if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed environment.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a fast lens and increase your ISO for the Jellyfish Ramble, as the area is intentionally kept very dark and flash is strictly forbidden.

• Position yourself in the center rows of the dolphin stadium for the best wide-angle shots of the synchronized water, light, and acrobatic performances.

• Capture the underwater tunnel from a low angle to get dramatic, upward-looking shots of the sharks and rays silhouetted against the bright acrylic ceiling.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese visitors value quiet observation in public spaces, so keep your voice down, especially in the tranquil zones like the Jellyfish Ramble, and ensure children are supervised near the touch pools. It is customary to queue neatly and wait your turn at interactive exhibits and food stalls, respecting the personal space of those around you. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so simply offer a polite bow or a simple thank you to the staff if they assist you.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The park hosts spectacular seasonal projection mapping events, such as the cherry blossom-themed spring illuminations and the vibrant summer festival light shows.

• During the winter holidays, the aquarium transforms with festive Christmas decorations, special holiday dolphin shows, and romantic winter night lighting.

• Halloween brings a spooky yet fun twist to the park with themed costumes for staff, special pumpkin decorations, and unique nighttime visual effects.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a firm grip on small children near the open touch pools and shallow water features to prevent accidental slipping or falling.

• Be mindful of the sudden loud noises and bright flashing lights during the dolphin shows, which might be overwhelming for toddlers or individuals with sensory sensitivities.

• Stay on the designated pathways and do not lean over the acrylic barriers or attempt to touch the animals outside of the designated interactive zones.