If you love marine life and plan to visit the northeastern part of Japan, stop by the Asamushi Aquarium in Asamushi, Aomori Prefecture. This aquarium has more than 10,000 sea creatures and 300 marine species and is known to be the largest aquarium in Tohoku. It is also the most popular maritime museum among tourists visiting Asamushi Onsen. In addition, this aquarium is also famous for its funny dolphin show.
The aquarium is easily accessible from Aomori Station. Hop on to a bus from right in front of the station by purchasing a special ticket for weekends and public holidays for 500 yen. This ticket can be used for unlimited rides throughout the day.
Since there aren’t too many buses running on any day, make sure to check the schedule to avoid waiting.
Another way to visit the aquarium is by taking the train from Aomori Station to Asamushi Onsen Station, followed by a 10-minute walk.
The train stations here don’t use IC cards, so you have to buy train tickets from a ticket vending machine or from the station staff.
If you come in winter, you will find a high pile of snow around the aquarium.
The entry fee is 1,030 yen for adults, and 510 yen for elementary/junior high-school students.
We decided to head straight to the Dolphin Pool to see the well-known dolphin show.
Isn’t this stage curtain with a dolphin pattern adorable? It totally lifts your spirits!
The dolphin show here is different from the shows in other aquariums as everyone can interact with the dolphins. During the show, you can sing and clap in sync with the dolphins’ movements, and watch them jump, dance, twirl and splash to the music. This is what makes it exciting.
Some of the dolphin tricks will leave you speechless.
Next, we look at the hundreds of species of marine life.
This aquarium is the largest marine aquarium in the Tohoku area, and you can see many rare marine animals here.
As soon you step into this 15-m long tunnel, you will feel as if you are walking in the sea. There are also shells unique to Aomori Prefecture in the tanks.
Try to spot some of the fish. You will be in awe of the numerous colors and shapes.
Many rare species are also visible here.
The freshwater area is decorated like a forest.
There is also a rare piranha.
In addition, you can also see a collection of amphibious animals such as penguins, sea lions, seals, and so on.
You don’t want to leave without picking up some souvenirs from the souvenir shop.
As the aquarium is famous for its dolphin shows, you will see many items featuring the cute dolphins like these plushies.
Aomori is known for its apples and there are many drinks and food products made using them. This apple juice has the Nebuta Festival motif, a popular lantern festival in Japan.
Aomori’s signature dessert that you shouldn’t forget to try is the Apple Pie. You can also find many apple pie shops in Aomori Prefecture, but this aquarium is famous for its delicious and mouthwatering apple pie.
If you have the chance to visit Aomori Prefecture, make sure to visit the largest aquarium in the Tohoku area.
Asamushi Aquarium
Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (last entry, 16:30)
Entry Fee: 1,030 yen (adults), 510 yen (elementary, junior high students)
Official Website: http://asamushi-aqua.com
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