Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Chitose Aquarium, Home of Salmon, is an aquarium in Chitose City, Hokkaido, that exhibits mainly freshwater fish and salmonids. It is a facility where visitors can learn about the importance of preserving the natural environment and waterside areas through the Chitose River basin environment and the life cycle of salmon. The aquarium plays a role in protecting and communicating the region's rich river ecosystem, and is committed to environmental education in collaboration with the local community through exhibits, breeding, educational programs, and release projects. The aquarium provides easy-to-understand information on the ecology of salmon, including reproduction, migration, and the growth of young fish, using actual objects, videos, and explanations, making it an enjoyable and educational experience for children and adults alike.
Highlights
- Salmon upstream migration and spawning exhibition: You can observe salmon swimming upstream and spawning up close through the exhibits and observation windows that recreate the Chitose River. Depending on the season, you may even be able to see the actual salmon swimming upstream.
- Life Cycle Exhibit: The staged development process from egg to fry to adult fish is displayed. It has great educational value as you can learn about the hatching and growth process of fry through real-life examples.
- Freshwater fish exhibit: A large number of fish that live in Hokkaido's rivers are on display, including rainbow trout, char, and yamame trout. There are also detailed explanations about their ecology and habitat.
- Learning Programs and EventsThere are a variety of experiential programs available, including explanations by aquarium staff, feedings, workshops, the release of young fish, and seasonal events (please check the dates).
- Exhibition explanation and video corner: There are panels and video exhibits that allow you to learn about salmon migration routes, environmental issues, and conservation activities, helping you deepen your understanding.
- Shop and cafe: Many of these places have shops selling original goods and local products, as well as cafes where you can take a break, making them convenient for choosing souvenirs and taking a break.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: The closest stations are JR Chitose Line's Chitose Station or Minami-Chitose Station (take a bus or taxi to your destination).
- Buses and taxis: There are buses and public transportation options available from Chitose Station, but bus routes change depending on the season and time, so be sure to check the timetable and route in advance. By taxi, the journey will take approximately 10 to 20 minutes (depending on traffic conditions).
- car: Approximately 15-30 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport (depending on road conditions). There are often parking lots around the hotel, making it convenient to access by car.
- Points to notePublic transportation, the location and number of parking spaces, and the congestion of surrounding roads may vary depending on the season. Please check the official website or city guide for the latest information before visiting.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Standard tour: 60-90 minutes (90-120 minutes if you want to take your time looking at the exhibits)
- If you include participation in workshops and events: 2 hours to half a day
Nearby spots
- Lake Shikotsu: A beautiful lake with high transparency. You can enjoy sightseeing boat rides and strolls along the lakeside (traveling by car is convenient).
- Lake Utonai (Lake Utonai Wildlife Sanctuary): A famous spot for bird watching. You can observe migratory birds and enjoy nature watching.
- New Chitose Airport area: There are plenty of sightseeing and shopping spots, including shopping malls, hot spring facilities, and airplane observation decks.
- Chitose Outlet Mall Rera: A large outlet mall where you can enjoy shopping and dining (easily accessible by car).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The number of visitors increases during salmon migration season (mainly in autumn). Weekends, consecutive holidays, and event days tend to be crowded, so we recommend visiting early on a weekday or right after opening.
- Manners: Please observe basic etiquette inside the aquarium, such as not making loud noises, not touching the glass displays, and refraining from using flash photography. In particular, flash photography may be prohibited as it can cause stress to the fish.
- Seasonal precautionsOutdoor exhibits and observation spots may not be open depending on the weather and water levels. The upstream migration period and events vary from year to year, so please contact the official website or the museum for the latest information.
- Safe and barrier-free: Strollers and wheelchairs are often accessible, but it's a good idea to check in advance about steps and the width of passageways. If you're visiting with small children, please be sure to keep an eye on them.
- Advance confirmation: Opening hours, closing days, admission fees, and event schedules may change, so please check the official website or call us before visiting to confirm the latest information.
To make your visit even more enjoyable, check the official website or local tourist information for the latest opening hours and event schedules beforehand. Enjoy the seasonal changes at this educational facility where you can feel the connection between nature and people.
