Question 1

How do I get there from the nearest station?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

Are there special events like night tours?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

Can I touch sea turtles?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

What kind of experience can I have on the glass-bottom boat?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

From what age can children enjoy it?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

How much is admission? Are combination tickets cheaper?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

What are the highlights of the aquarium?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

What kind of facility is the submarine observation tower?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

Can I enjoy it on rainy or stormy days?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Is there a restaurant or food service?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 11

Is there a parking lot?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 12

What is the address?

Accepted Answer

1157 Arita, Kushimoto, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture

Question 13

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 14

What are the opening hours?

Accepted Answer

9:00–16:30 (last entry 16:00; hours vary by season. Check the official website)

Question 15

When is it closed?

Accepted Answer

Irregular closures (check the official website)

Question 16

What are the admission fees?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 17

Is there a parking lot?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is available. Please check the official information for details.

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