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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Enoshima Aquarium (commonly known as Enosui) is a popular aquarium located near Enoshima Island in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The former Enoshima Aquarium opened in 1954, but the current facility was renovated and reopened in 2004, and is equipped with the latest exhibits and viewing environments. While exhibits focus on the diverse ecosystems of Sagami Bay, it also features a variety of exciting programs, including jellyfish exhibits, a large swimming tank, and dolphin shows. The aquarium is popular with people of all ages thanks to its beautiful seaside location and commentary that emphasizes education and conservation.
Highlights
- Sagami Bay Large Aquarium (Circulating Tank): You can observe schools of tuna and other large fish swimming up close in a large tank. The scale of the tank and the lighting effects are impressive.
- Dolphin show: Dolphin performances are held in both indoor and outdoor show spaces. Performances change depending on the season and time of day, so it's best to check the schedule before viewing.
- Jellyfish exhibit: The jellyfish exhibit, illuminated with fantastic lighting, is popular. You can enjoy the exhibit at your leisure in a quiet space.
- Interaction corner (touch pool): An interactive corner where you can touch starfish, sea cucumbers, and more (dates and times may vary). Popular with families with children.
- Ecological exhibits and explanations of Sagami Bay: The aquarium is packed with exhibits that delve deep into the fish and ecosystems of the local Sagami Bay, making it an excellent place to learn about the local sea.
- View from the rooftop terraceOn clear days, you can see Enoshima and even Mount Fuji in the distance, allowing you to enjoy the scenery between exhibits.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: About a 3-5 minute walk from Katase-Enoshima Station, the last stop on the Odakyu Line and Enoshima Line (walk towards the sea from the station).
- Other: From JR Fujisawa Station, it's about a 10-15 minute ride on the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden) or bus. It's also easily accessible from the Kamakura area.
- By car: There are paid parking lots around the facility, but they tend to fill up on weekends and during peak summer months, so we recommend using public transportation. From Tokyo, the journey takes around an hour on expressways and regular roads, depending on traffic conditions.
- Note: On busy days and during events, you may have to wait to enter, so it is best to check the official website in advance for opening hours, event information, and whether online tickets are available.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Standard tour: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours (if you take your time to look at the main exhibits)
- Combined shows and experiences: Approx. 2-3 hours
- If you plan to include events, leisurely photography, and strolling around the area: half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Enoshima (Enoshima Shrine, Sea Candle Observation Lighthouse, Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden) — Enjoy a stroll along the waterfront and take in the views, all within walking distance of the aquarium.
- Katase Beach and Shonan Beach - A base for swimming and marine sports in the summer.
- Enoshima Iwaya (Cave) — A coastal natural history spot. Check in advance to see if it will be open at low tide.
- Kamakura (Tsuruoka Hachimangu Shrine, Great Buddha, Komachi Street) — Just a few stops on the Enoshima Electric Railway, this area is easy to incorporate into a half-day sightseeing plan.
- Cafes and restaurants in Shonan - There are many restaurants with ocean views, making them convenient places to eat and relax.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion:The museum is extremely crowded on weekends, public holidays, summer vacation, Golden Week, and the New Year holidays. If you want to avoid waiting in line and crowds inside the museum, we recommend visiting on a weekday or right after opening. You can also shorten your waiting time by using online tickets.
- Manners:Please observe the rules when viewing the exhibits, such as not touching or throwing anything into them, and not feeding them (except for designated experiences). Photography is generally permitted, but flash photography is prohibited in many places as it can affect the living creatures.
- With children:Strollers are allowed, but please be considerate of those around you when it is crowded and keep an eye on small children.
- Seasonal Notes:Because it's by the sea, the temperature you feel can change on windy or sunny days. The sea breeze can be particularly chilly in winter, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket. In summer, it can get crowded, so don't forget to take precautions against heatstroke.
- Facility use:The availability of dining spaces, nursing rooms, and barrier-free facilities varies depending on the facility, so please check the official information beforehand. Pets are generally not allowed inside the facilities (with the exception of service dogs).
- Event information:The times for special exhibitions, night events, and dolphin shows change depending on the season and day of the week, so it's best to check the schedule before visiting to ensure you can get around efficiently.
*Please check the official website for the latest opening hours, admission fees, event information, and transportation information.
