The sea is the birthplace of all the life on Earth. Even now, many lifeforms are created there. Toba Aquarium brings people closer to the vastness, richness, and mysteriousness of the sea.

Toba Aquarium is the largest indoor aquarium in Japan and boasts the largest number of species kept in Japan. It is divided into 12 zones where visitors can freely observe the ecology and natural environment of the creatures. About 1,200 diverse species live here.

photo: (c) TOBA AQUARIUM

You can meet many marine animals at Toba Aquarium including dolphins, sea lions, and sea otters. In particular, the aquarium is unique in Japan for breeding dugong, an animal said to be the inspiration for mermaids. It is special for being the only aquarium in the world to simultaneously raise and exhibit dugong with the African manatee, a large manatee in the same aquatic mammal order Sirenia that lives in rivers. In addition to sea animals, the aquarium also features creatures that have evolved and adapted along waterfront areas throughout the history of the Earth. Visitors can study the ecology of creatures such as otters, penguins, walruses, and pelicans that moved onto land and evolved there. The facilities include a restaurant, museum, gallery, and shop, making it the perfect place for learning and shopping for souvenirs.

photo: (c) TOBA AQUARIUM