[Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)]
Sumida Aquarium is a large urban aquarium located within Tokyo Skytree Town (Tokyo Solamachi), which opened in 2012 to coincide with the opening of Tokyo Skytree. It features exhibits themed around "Tokyo's Sea" in the city, and is a facility that combines design with educational elements, including a large aquarium modeled after the actual ecosystem of Tokyo Bay, a fantastical jellyfish exhibit, and an easy-to-observe penguin pool. The facility's outstanding lighting and sound effects, along with many seasonal special exhibitions and events, make it a place that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike.
[Highlights]
– Tokyo Great Aquarium (TOKYO Great Aquarium)
- A large-scale aquarium that recreates the ecosystem of Tokyo Bay. Highlights include the sight of schools of fish swimming and the three-dimensional underwater scenery.
– Jellyfish exhibit (jellyfish kaleidoscope, etc.)
– The fantastical jellyfish exhibit, with its lighting and music, is a popular photo spot. You can enjoy the different floating sensations of each species.
– Penguin Pool
– An observation-type exhibit where you can watch the animals swimming up close through an underwater observation window. There may also be behavioral exhibits and explanations from the animal care staff.
– Interaction area (touch pool, etc.)
– A corner where you can actually touch and observe living creatures (times and content may change). Popular with families with children.
– Special exhibitions and events
– Seasonal themed exhibitions, extended night hours, illumination events, workshops and more are regularly held.
– Learning elements
– It is also educational, with plenty of panel displays and explanations about ecology and conservation.
[Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)]
- Address (example): 5th and 6th floors, Tokyo Skytree Town Solamachi, 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
- train
– Approximately 3-5 minutes walk from Oshiage (Oshiage Skytree Mae) Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Keisei Oshiage Line, Tobu Skytree Line) (directly connected to Tokyo Solamachi).
- Just a few minutes walk from Tokyo Skytree Station (Tobu Skytree Line).
– car
- There is a parking lot at Tokyo Solamachi (limited spaces, fees and congestion mean it is recommended to use public transportation).
- others
- Easy access from the water bus, Toei bus, and Asakusa area. Follow the signs inside Solamachi to find the entrance.
[Estimated stay (estimated time required)]
– Standard: 1.5 to 2 hours (if you take your time to look at the main exhibits)
- Leisurely sightseeing, participating in events, or with children: 2-3 hours
– It may take longer if it is crowded or you want to take your time to look at the exhibits.
[Nearby spots]
– Tokyo Skytree (observation deck)
– The views from the observation deck and observation gallery are popular tourist spots. Many people visit the aquarium as well.
– Tokyo Solamachi (shopping mall)
– There are many gourmet and souvenir shops, making it a convenient place to take a break or have a meal.
– Parks around Sumida City Mukojima Hyakkaen and Sumida Aquarium
– Walking spots and cherry blossom viewing spots (depending on the season).
– Sumida Park and Sumida River Cruise
– Enjoy a stroll along the river or a sightseeing boat ride.
– Asakusa (Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street)
– Historical tourist sites are accessible on foot or by train.
[Points to note (crowds, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)]
– Crowded
– It is especially crowded on weekends, public holidays, Golden Week, summer vacation, and the New Year holidays. There may be restrictions on admission and waiting times, so we recommend purchasing tickets online in advance and using tickets with a designated date and time.
– Photography/Flash
– Flash photography is often prohibited as it can affect the jellyfish and other living creatures in some exhibits. Please follow the signs.
- Manners
– Please observe basic etiquette, such as refraining from shouting or running in front of the exhibits, not touching the exhibit glass or partitions, and following the instructions of staff.
– Stroller and barrier-free
– The building is partially barrier-free (elevators, nursing rooms, etc.), but it may be difficult to move around when it is crowded.
– Bring-in/food and drink
– Eating and drinking within the building is only permitted in designated areas. Please follow the rules regarding bringing in and consuming food and drinks.
– Seasonal and event information
– Please note that there may be temporary closures, changes to exhibits, and changes to opening hours (such as extended night hours), so we recommend checking the official website for the latest information before visiting.
(Additional Information) To ensure a smooth visit, check the official website in advance for opening hours, closing days, ticket information, how crowded it will be on the day, and the event schedule.
