The aquarium transitioned its entire focus to jellyfish after facing financial crisis in the early 2000s, leading to a massive increase in visitor numbers.
The 'Jellyfish Dream Theater' uses a specialized water flow system to prevent jellyfish from damaging their fragile bells against the tank walls.
The aquarium conducts daily public feeding demonstrations specifically focused on how different jellyfish species catch prey.
Researchers at the facility have successfully bred species that are rarely seen or kept in captivity elsewhere in the world.
The aquarium's restaurant menu features unconventional items, including jellyfish-flavored ice cream and jellyfish ramen.
Kamo Aquarium is globally recognized for holding the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of jellyfish species. The facility features the 'Kuratarium,' a specialized exhibit space dedicated to the life cycle and diverse biology of over 60 different jellyfish types. Its centerpiece is the 'Jellyfish Dream Theater,' a massive 5-meter diameter circular tank housing thousands of moon jellyfish. Beyond cnidarians, the aquarium maintains exhibits for seals and sea lions, including a marine touch pool for interactive education. The aquarium is situated on the coastline of the Sea of Japan, allowing for dramatic ocean views from the facility. Research and breeding programs are central to its operations, as the aquarium actively cultivates its own jellyfish populations for display.
The Jellyfish Dream Theater, where the circular tank creates a hypnotic, infinite background for silhouette portraits.
Arrive early in the day to observe the jellyfish feeding sessions, which are often the highlight for visitors interested in biology.
Check the official website's 'Jellyfish Dictionary' before arriving to identify which rare species are currently on display.
Bring a camera with a high ISO capability, as the galleries are kept very dark to highlight the bioluminescence and delicate structures of the jellyfish.
Do not rush through the early exhibits, as the diverse jellyfish tanks at the beginning are just as significant as the large theater tank.
Maintain a low voice in the dark exhibit areas; flash photography is strictly prohibited as it can disturb the animals.
