Aquas is famous for its 'Happy Ring' performance where beluga whales manipulate air bubbles into donut shapes.
The main tank uses a special filtering system to maintain water quality for the sharks and schooling fish native to the local Sea of Japan.
The facility is integrated directly into the larger Iwami Seaside Park, allowing for transitions between aquarium exhibits and beach activities.
The architecture is designed to mimic the fluid shapes of the surrounding coastal environment.
The aquarium hosts a dedicated penguin habitat that simulates the rocky shoreline of the Shimane prefecture.
Shimane Aquarium Aquas is the largest aquarium in western Japan, situated on the coast of the Sea of Japan. It is internationally recognized for being the first aquarium in the world to capture a video of a beluga whale blowing a 'happy ring' bubble. The facility features a distinctive 1,000-ton capacity tank designed to recreate the underwater environment of the Sea of Japan. Visitors can walk through an expansive underwater tunnel that provides 360-degree views of marine life, including sharks and rays. The aquarium maintains a focus on the biodiversity of the Shimane coastline, housing over 10,000 creatures from 400 species. Its architecture integrates with the surrounding Iwami Seaside Park landscape. Educational programs emphasize conservation and marine biology specific to the San'in region. The complex includes an outdoor seal and sea lion zone as well as indoor exhibits. It remains a key center for research on marine mammals in the Chugoku region.
The underwater tunnel offers the best lighting and perspective for capturing images of sharks and large fish swimming overhead.
Check the daily performance schedule immediately upon entry, as the beluga whale 'bubble ring' demonstrations are highly popular and timed throughout the day.
Visit the outdoor observation decks for unobstructed views of the Sea of Japan coastline.
Allow time to walk through the adjacent Iwami Seaside Park to fully experience the coastal setting.
Do not attempt to touch the glass of the tanks or tap on them, as this causes acoustic stress to the animals.
Closed on certain Tuesdays, particularly during winter months; check the official calendar for seasonal maintenance closures.
Refrain from using flash photography, as it can stress the marine animals and disturb other visitors.
