The facility was conceptualized in collaboration with Tadao Ando, a world-renowned architect, to influence the spatial design.
NIFREL is operated by the Kaiyukan Aquarium, one of the world's largest public aquariums.
The 'Wonder Moments' zone features a spherical screen measuring approximately 5 meters in diameter using projection mapping.
Unlike traditional zoos, animals are displayed in clean, white, minimalist settings to emphasize their individual biological features.
The facility maintains a 'Touch' zone where visitors can interact with certain marine life under supervision.
The name 'NIFREL' is derived from the Japanese word 'Fureru,' meaning to touch or experience, reflecting its core philosophy.
It maintains a specific collection of rare aquatic species including the Wobbegong shark and various bioluminescent fish.
NIFREL is an interactive 'living museum' designed to minimize barriers between visitors and animals, focusing on artistic presentation rather than traditional zoo enclosures. The facility is divided into eight thematic zones, including 'Colors,' 'Abilities,' and 'Wonder Moments,' which use dramatic lighting and mirrors to create a surreal environment. It houses both aquatic life and terrestrial animals, including white tigers, capybaras, and ring-tailed lemurs. The 'Wander' zone allows visitors to walk among free-roaming animals in a semi-open habitat. The venue is located within the Expocity entertainment complex. Its exhibits prioritize sensory experience and the concept of 'sensitivity' to nature. The facility operates as an indoor climate-controlled environment, independent of external weather conditions.
The 'Wonder Moments' art installation area offers the most distinct lighting for photography.
Check the daily feeding and interaction schedule upon entry, as these events provide the most engaging viewings.
Wear comfortable, slip-on shoes as the facility covers significant floor space and requires constant movement.
Visit during weekdays to avoid the crowds that congregate at the Expocity complex on weekends and holidays.
Do not mistake the facility for a traditional aquarium; there are no large-scale ocean tanks or dolphin performances here.
Open daily, though subject to occasional maintenance closures; check the official calendar for non-standard holiday hours.
Refrain from using camera flashes to avoid stressing the animals; maintain a quiet volume to respect the contemplative design.
