Frequently Asked Questions
English answers are machine-translated from the property's Japanese information. Please confirm important details with the property directly.
Or browse the answers we’ve already prepared below.
アクセス (1)
How do I get there from the nearest station?
From JR Kinooku Line Kushimoto Station, it takes approximately 13 minutes by free shuttle bus. Check the official website for shuttle bus timetables. By car, it takes approximately 20 minutes from Susami-Minami IC on the Kii Expressway via Route 42.
イベント (1)
Are there special events like night tours?
Night tours of the aquarium guided by staff keepers are held in summer (Saturdays in July–August at 19:00). Daytime admission on the same day is required. Other seasonal events include special tank exhibitions. For the latest information, check the news section of the official website.
体験 (2)
Can I touch sea turtles?
Petting experiences with young sea turtles (0–1 year old) and feeding sea turtles are offered daily at the Sea Turtle Park. Please check the official website or ask the staff on site for experience times.
What kind of experience can I have on the glass-bottom boat?
The semi-submersible glass-bottom boat "Stella Maris" allows you to observe table coral colonies through the boat's windows, said to be the northernmost in the world. The boat may not operate in bad weather, so please confirm with the official website or by phone before visiting.
子ども連れ (1)
From what age can children enjoy it?
Admission is charged from age 3 and up, though children under 3 are free. Programs such as baby sea turtle touching experiences and feeding are well-developed for young children. The underwater tunnel is particularly popular with small children as they can see fish up close.
料金 (1)
How much is admission? Are combination tickets cheaper?
Admission to the aquarium alone is ¥1,600 for adults, ¥800 for elementary and junior high school students, and ¥400 for children (3 and over). Combination tickets are available that include the submarine observation tower and glass-bottom boat tours, and purchasing these may be more economical when visiting multiple facilities. Check the official website for details.
見どころ (2)
What are the highlights of the aquarium?
The aquarium displays approximately 400 species and over 4,000 creatures. A roughly 25-metre underwater tunnel tank offers dramatic views of sharks, rays, and sea turtles swimming overhead. The display of Japan's longest-living coral and colourful tropical fish are also highlights.
What kind of facility is the submarine observation tower?
An observation tower located 140 metres offshore, it allows you to observe the seabed at a depth of 6.3 metres through windows. You can see coral, tropical fish, and sea turtles in their natural marine environment, offering an immersive experience that cannot be felt in the aquarium.
雨天時 (1)
Can I enjoy it on rainy or stormy days?
The aquarium can be enjoyed regardless of rain. However, the underwater sightseeing boat may suspend operations in bad weather. The underwater observation tower is less affected by weather. Please check the official website or call ahead to confirm operating status before your visit.
食事・土産 (1)
Is there a restaurant or food service?
The in-facility restaurant "Acropora" serves fresh seafood delivered daily from Katsuura. Popular menu items include "three-color maguro (tuna) bowl" featuring tuna from Nachi-Katsuura. A souvenir shop is also available.
駐車場 (1)
Is there a parking lot?
Free parking is available at the facility. Spaces for motorcycles and large vehicles are also provided. A free shuttle bus runs from JR Kushimoto Station, making access by train convenient as well.
Other (6)
What is the address?
1157 Arita, Kushimoto, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture
How do I get there?
Free shuttle bus from JR Kinokuni Line Kushimoto Station, approximately 13 minutes. By car, from Kii Expressway Susami Minami IC, approximately 20 minutes via National Route 42.
What are the opening hours?
9:00–16:30 (last entry 16:00; hours vary by season. Check the official website)
When is it closed?
Irregular closures (check the official website)
What are the admission fees?
Aquarium: Adults ¥1,600, elementary and junior high school students ¥800, children (ages 3 and up) ¥400. Combination tickets available with the underwater observation tower and underwater sightseeing boat.
Is there a parking lot?
Yes, it is available. Please check the official information for details.