Enoshima Aquarium

Enoshima Aquarium is a modern and captivating aquarium located on the scenic coast of Sagami Bay, near Yokohama, Japan. It is a place where you can dive headfirst into the mysteries of the underwater world, making it an ideal choice for a family outing or an educational trip. The aquarium is located right next to the popular tourist destination of Enoshima Island, allowing you to combine your visit with a walk around the area.

Fully renovated in 2005, the aquarium offers guests modern exhibits dedicated to marine ecosystems. The centerpiece is the massive "Sagami Bay Sea" tank, which reproduces the underwater world of the region with incredible accuracy. Here, you will encounter a wide variety of deep-sea inhabitants: from graceful dolphins, penguins, and seals to mysterious jellyfish and impressive sharks. It is not just an exhibit, but a real educational space where everyone can learn something new about ocean life.

In addition to observing marine life, the Enoshima Aquarium is famous for its interactive shows and educational programs. These are engaging for both children and adults, allowing a closer look at the remarkable abilities of marine animals. On clear days, the aquarium grounds offer stunning views of the bay and even the majestic Mount Fuji, adding a special charm to the visit.

To plan your visit to the Enoshima Aquarium or check the latest information on opening hours and events, you can use the official contact details.

We recommend checking the opening hours and show schedules in advance, as they can vary by season. Up-to-date information can be found on the aquarium's official website, which is easily searchable using terms like "Enoshima Aquarium" or "新江ノ島水族館". While most information is presented in Japanese, English brochures or main sections are often available.

A visit to the Enoshima Aquarium promises a wealth of experiences, from observing diverse marine life to participating in interactive programs. One of the main reasons to visit is the spectacular animal shows held several times a day. The dynamic dolphin performances, showcasing their intelligence and grace, are particularly popular. Visitors can also listen to fascinating stories about penguin life and watch them being fed. Inside, themed zones are dedicated to various ecosystems, such as Sagami Bay and the depths of the Pacific Ocean, home to over 26,000 creatures.

For those looking for deeper knowledge, the aquarium offers educational and interactive exhibits. You can not only see but also touch some marine inhabitants in special touch pools. The Jellyfish Fantasy Hall deserves special mention—it is one of the largest such exhibits in Japan, where special lighting and 3D projections create a sense of complete immersion in the underwater world. Additionally, the aquarium offers a unique "pearl harvesting" experience: for an extra fee, you can choose an oyster, open it, and keep the pearl you find as a souvenir.

Beyond meeting the marine fauna, the aquarium offers other activities. There is a souvenir shop on-site with a wide selection of themed merchandise, as well as a cafe where you can relax. On clear days, some halls and the open terrace offer a magnificent view of Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji, providing a perfect backdrop for photos. Enoshima Aquarium is not just an animal exhibition but a comprehensive space for relaxation, learning, and making vibrant memories for the whole family.

Getting to the Enoshima Aquarium is quite simple, especially by public transport. It is located in Fujisawa City, in close proximity to major tourist hubs such as Yokohama and Kamakura. The most convenient way is to take a train to Katase-Enoshima Station on the Odakyu Enoshima Line. This is the closest station to the aquarium and the starting point of the walking route.

From Katase-Enoshima Station, you can reach the aquarium on foot in about 10–15 minutes. The route is very scenic, running along the promenade with beautiful views of the bay. To stay on track, follow the signs toward Enoshima Island. The aquarium is situated right on the coast, about 600 meters from the bridge leading to the island, so you certainly won't miss it.

If you are traveling from Tokyo, the train ride on the Odakyu Line to Katase-Enoshima Station takes about an hour. For those who prefer other modes of transport or are coming from central Yokohama or Kamakura, a bus or taxi can be a convenient alternative. These options allow you to reach your destination in comfort, though they may be more expensive than the train.

The history of the Enoshima Aquarium dates back to 1954 when it first opened to the public. Initially a relatively modest facility, it quickly gained popularity and became one of the region's iconic landmarks. Its location on the picturesque coast of Sagami Bay has always attracted both locals and tourists eager to explore the marine life of Japan.

A true breakthrough in the aquarium's history occurred in 2005 when it underwent a large-scale renovation. This update introduced brand-new exhibits, modern technologies for displaying the underwater world, and significantly improved animal welfare conditions. Following its transformation, the aquarium became even more attractive, evolving into the modern educational and entertainment center we know today.

The aquarium's location in a historically significant area—next to Enoshima Island—adds a special charm. This island is steeped in ancient legends and is famous for its shrines, mysterious caves, and tales of the goddess Benten, the patron of water, music, and the arts. This combination of natural beauty, rich history, and cutting-edge technology makes visiting the aquarium more than just an excursion; it's a true immersion into the culture and nature of this amazing region, conveniently located near Yokohama.

To fully enjoy your visit to the Enoshima Aquarium, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 4 hours. This time is generally enough to see all the main exhibits without rushing, attend the exciting dolphin and penguin shows, and stop by the souvenir shop. This timeframe allows you to comfortably immerse yourself in the underwater world and get to know its amazing inhabitants.

If you're planning a more packed day and want to combine your aquarium visit with a stroll around the scenic Enoshima Island nearby, it's best to allow at least half a day for the entire trip. This will allow you not only to enjoy the marine wonders at the aquarium but also to explore the island's famous shrines, caves, and natural beauty, turning the outing into a complete mini-journey.

When planning a visit to the Enoshima Aquarium, it is important to consider its operating hours, which can vary. Typically, the aquarium is open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, these hours may change depending on the season, holidays, and weekends. For example, from December to February, hours may be shorter (from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM), while during holiday periods, they may be extended. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to check the current schedule on the official aquarium website before your trip.

The aquarium is open year-round, making it accessible for visits at any time. To avoid queues, especially during peak tourist season or on weekends, it is worth considering purchasing tickets online in advance. This will not only save you time at the entrance but also guarantee admission if visitor numbers are limited. Last entry is usually allowed one hour before closing, which should be kept in mind when planning an evening visit.

A visit to the Enoshima Aquarium is a wonderful opportunity to explore the underwater world, but your journey shouldn't end there. The surrounding area is rich in cultural and natural attractions that will help make your day even more fulfilling and memorable. Exploring nearby sites will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this scenic region.

From ancient caves and famous shrines to picturesque beaches and observation decks—all of this is just a short drive or even a walk away. To help you plan your onward route, we have prepared a list of interesting places located near the Enoshima Aquarium.