Sunshine Aquarium

Must Do Experiences

• Watch the iconic sky penguins appear to fly across the Tokyo skyline in the rooftop Sunshine Aqua Ring.

• Witness the mesmerizing jellyfish displays in the dark, neon-lit Jellyfish Passage.

• Catch the lively sea lion and penguin feeding shows to see the animals up close.

• Stroll through the Coral Reef Village to spot colorful tropical fish and hidden sea creatures.

Hidden Gems

• Visit the Garden of Healing zone, a beautifully landscaped outdoor area with water features and capybaras that many visitors rush past.

• Look closely at the interactive touch pools where you can gently feel the textures of starfish and sea cucumbers.

• Check out the unique aquarium merchandise in the gift shop, featuring exclusive Sunshine City penguin plushies not found elsewhere in Tokyo.

What Makes it Special

• It is one of the few aquariums in the world built on the rooftop of a skyscraper, offering a stunning contrast between ocean life and urban cityscapes.

• The facility underwent a massive renovation to focus on a relaxing, resort-like atmosphere rather than just traditional educational exhibits.

• The Sunshine Aqua Ring provides a breathtaking optical illusion where swimming penguins are framed by the towering buildings of Ikebukuro.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Early mornings right at opening time or late afternoons on weekdays offer the most peaceful experience with fewer crowds. For the best photography at the sky penguin exhibit, visit during the golden hour just before sunset when the Tokyo skyline is beautifully illuminated. Avoid Japanese public holidays and weekend afternoons if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Position yourself at the edge of the Sunshine Aqua Ring during the late afternoon to capture the penguins swimming with the sunset and city lights in the background.

• Use a fast shutter speed and press your camera lens gently against the glass to eliminate reflections when shooting in the darker indoor zones.

• Tripods and selfie sticks are not permitted inside the facility, so rely on your smartphone's night mode or a high-ISO setting for low-light shots.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese visitors appreciate a quiet and serene environment, so keep your voice down and avoid running or tapping on the glass enclosures. Queueing is taken very seriously in Japan, so always wait patiently in line for animal shows and interactive exhibits. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, and excellent service is simply part of the standard hospitality.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The aquarium hosts special illuminated night events during the winter holiday season, transforming the rooftop into a romantic wonderland.

• Summer months often feature limited-time outdoor festivals with special evening opening hours and seasonal tropical fish exhibits.

• During Halloween and Christmas, the penguins and sea lions are often treated to themed enrichment toys and special festive feeding shows.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Hold onto young children tightly near the outdoor water features and open rooftop edges to prevent accidental slips or falls.

• Be mindful of the temperature difference between the air-conditioned indoor exhibits and the outdoor rooftop areas, bringing a light jacket if visiting in winter.

• Follow all staff instructions during animal feeding sessions to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the marine life.