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Zoos #1 in Uozu, Toyama

Uozu Aquarium

4.1 · 2,170 reviews
Educational and serene
Uozu Aquarium, 1390 Sanga, Uozu, Toyama 937-0857, Japan
Interesting facts
1

It is recognized as the oldest existing aquarium in Japan, tracing its roots back over a century.

2

The aquarium maintains a specialized focus on the deep-sea organisms of the adjacent Toyama Bay, which is one of the deepest bays in Japan.

3

It was the first aquarium in the world to successfully exhibit the deep-sea 'Oarfish' (Ryugu-no-tsukai).

4

The facility functions as a research center for studying the biological cycles of marine life specific to the Sea of Japan.

5

It is situated at the gateway to the Mirage Road, a location famous for sightings of the Fata Morgana mirage phenomenon.

Overview

Uozu Aquarium is the oldest aquarium in Japan, originally established in 1913. Located on the Sea of Japan coastline, it specializes in the marine life of Toyama Bay. The facility features a distinctive underwater tunnel that allows visitors to view fish from below. Notable exhibits include Humboldt penguins, various sea turtle species, and deep-sea creatures indigenous to the region. The aquarium focuses on educational displays regarding local ecological research. It also maintains tanks showcasing the unique 'Uozu-style' of sustainable fish husbandry. The site serves as a research hub for the Toyama Bay ecosystem. Interactive zones are provided to allow observation of coastal marine animals. The aquarium is situated within a scenic park environment facing the sea.

Photo spot

Inside the glass viewing tunnel, where the light filters through the water to create silhouettes of passing sea life.

Insider tips

Visit during the feeding demonstration times to see the penguins and turtles at their most active.

Check the daily schedule upon arrival, as interactive touch pool sessions are often limited to specific segments of the day.

Plan your visit to coincide with a clear day to enjoy views of the Tateyama Mountain Range from the aquarium's outdoor perimeter.

What to avoid

Do not rush through the entrance exhibits; the most unique deep-sea species displays are often located in the dedicated, slightly darker sections further inside.

Good to know

Typically closed during select winter maintenance periods and occasionally on specific weekdays during the off-season; check local signage for rotating cleaning schedules.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to avoid school groups and local crowds, or spring for pleasant weather near the waterfront.
Address
Uozu Aquarium, 1390 Sanga, Uozu, Toyama 937-0857, Japan
36.798, 137.388
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsHumboldt penguins, sea turtles, and rare deep-sea fish from Toyama Bay

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to avoid school groups and local crowds, or spring for pleasant weather near the waterfront..

Inside the glass viewing tunnel, where the light filters through the water to create silhouettes of passing sea life.

Close by you'll find Mirage land, Uozusogo Koen Mira Park, Hotaruika Museum.