The aquarium was the first in Japan to be constructed on the rooftop of a high-rise building.
The Aqua Ring overhead tank allows penguins and sea lions to appear as if they are flying through the sky against the Ikebukuro cityscape.
The facility features a specialized 'Jellyfish Tunnel' designed to provide a 360-degree viewing experience of bioluminescent species.
The marine garden includes a 'Grassland' area that provides an open-air environment for penguins to roam.
The aquarium's water circulation system is highly advanced to support salt-water life on a skyscraper roof.
Sunshine Aquarium is located on the rooftop of the World Import Mart Building within the Sunshine City complex in Ikebukuro. It distinguishes itself as an 'Oasis in the Sky' with a unique outdoor layout featuring elevated tanks and aquatic displays. The facility houses approximately 37,000 creatures representing 550 species. A signature exhibit is the 'Sunshine Aqua Ring,' a doughnut-shaped overhead tank that allows visitors to view sea lions swimming above their heads. The aquarium utilizes outdoor natural light to maintain realistic environmental cycles for its marine life. It features a dedicated jelly fish tunnel and multiple touch pools for interactive observation. The outdoor marine garden hosts regular performance feedings and wildlife demonstrations throughout the day.
Directly under the 'Sunshine Aqua Ring' outdoor tank for a shot of sea lions swimming against the sky.
Visit during a weekday to avoid the heavy weekend crowds that gather for the marine performance shows.
Check the daily event schedule upon entry to align your visit with the sea lion or penguin feeding times.
Wear comfortable shoes as the outdoor deck area involves significant walking and standing.
Avoid arriving during public holidays or weekends if you dislike large crowds, as the outdoor walkways become congested.
Do not use flash photography near the tanks to avoid stressing the marine life; keep voices at a moderate level.
