How to enjoy your visit to the Otaru Aquarium
There is nothing quite like your very first time at the aquarium. Creatures beyond your imagination that dwell under the ocean, far from view, are now available for observation. Whether you are a child or an adult, the mind cannot help but be amazed at the sight of sharks or manta ray's floating around you.
The Otaru Aquarium is no different. With over 350,000 visitors each year, it is one of the most popular venues in Hokkaido and it is brilliantly located facing the Sea of Japan. Visiting an aquarium should be on everyone's checklist and the Otaru Aquarium is a great place to start!
The Mascots of the Otaru Aquarium
Located just a 15 minutes journey from the Otaru Station, this aquarium is one of the easiest to access as soon as you arrive into the station if you are looking for things to do in Otaru. If you are opting for public transport, then there are plenty of buses available to access the aquarium. However, the venue is not in close vicinity to the town of Otaru but despite this, the venue is very accessible as a sightseeing spot given the great public transport in the area. In case you are looking for accommodation as well, there are hotels by the Park Hotel Group available in the vicinity as well!
In terms of the infrastructure of the aquarium, the complex is split up into two main buildings. They are the Marine Mammals Park and the Dolphin Stadium. These two facilities contain an astounding 5,000 sea animals and over 250 distinct species for the viewing pleasure of visitors. This diversity of species makes it a delightful experience and is adored by all local and foreign visitors!
A very endearing aspect of the aquarium is the adorable mascots named 'Hacchan' and 'Nanachan' that greet visitors at the entrance.
Check out the panoramic fish tanks
One of the first things you will encounter when you are entering the aquarium is the massive water tank that stretches along the wall giving you a brilliant panoramic view of the marine life within. This gives you a glimpse of the array of sharks, turtles and rays that swim casually in the water going about their daily lives.
Additionally, if you are using an audio guide for your journey through the aquarium, you will be introduced to a turtle by the name of 'Taro' at this point of the tour. A touching fact about Taro is that it was found without one of its limbs and has been calling the Otaru Aquarium home for almost 7 years now.
Each year there is a signature exhibit, showcasing a specific kind of sea creature as the featured animal for the year. For 2020, this creature was the Japanese Spider Crab and you can learn all about its behaviours and background at this exhibit.
Enjoy the Dolphins and the South American Sea Lions
If you are hoping for a spectacle, then you are in for a treat! The Otaru Aquarium is the home to several dolphins and Sea Lions who delight in putting on a show to raucous applause from onlookers. The show is called the 'South American Sea Lions Elementary School is available during the weekdays. If you are interested in viewing the dolphins, then drop in on the weekends to the Dolphin Stadium building so that you can watch them train while attempting their jumps and twirls!
It is certainly awe-inspiring to witness the grace and speed with which each creature executes their tricks and showcases a level of intelligence that many people would typically underestimate from these oceanic animals.
It is important to also note that this is simply a fraction of what is available at the Otaru Aquarium and you can expect to enjoy various other activities as well!
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