Enoshima Aquarium
Marine Life Wonders with Iconic Fuji Views
The original Enoshima Aquarium opened in 1954 as Japan was rebuilding after World War II, becoming one of the country's first modern marine parks. The facility pioneered several firsts in Japanese aquarium history, including the country's first dolphin show and early success in breeding marine mammals. Located on the beach at the base of Enoshima Island with Mount Fuji visible across Sagami Bay, the aquarium became a beloved destination for families and school trips throughout the Showa era.
In 2004, the facility underwent complete renovation and reopening as 'New Enoshima Aquarium' (Shin-Enoshima Suizokukan, commonly called Enosui). The redesign focused on showcasing the unique ecosystem of Sagami Bay, one of the world's richest marine biodiversity hotspots due to the meeting of warm and cold ocean currents. The new facility incorporated cutting-edge exhibit design, including Japan's first deep-sea focused displays and innovative jellyfish galleries that inspired the global 'jellyfish boom' in aquarium design.
Today, Enoshima Aquarium attracts over 1.7 million annual visitors drawn by its combination of world-class marine exhibits, entertaining animal shows, and unmatched location with beach and Mount Fuji views. The aquarium maintains strong research partnerships with marine biology institutes, contributing to conservation and education. The facility represents modern aquarium philosophy balancing entertainment, education, and research while maintaining deep connection to local marine environment and culture.
Key Highlights
- Massive Sagami Bay Great Tank with 8,000 creatures
- Innovative jellyfish exhibits with artistic lighting
- Daily dolphin and sea lion shows
- Deep-sea creatures from Sagami Bay depths
- Beach location with Mount Fuji views
- Interactive touch pools and feeding experiences
Access Information
Location
2-19-1 Katase-kaigan, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-0035, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Katase-Enoshima Station (Odakyu Enoshima Line) - 3 min walk
- • Enoshima Station (Enoden Line) - 10 min walk
- • Shonan-Enoshima Station (Shonan Monorail) - 10 min walk
Opening Hours
March-November: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; December-February: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Extended summer hours to 6:00 PM; Last entry 1 hour before closing
Admission Fee
Adults: ¥2,500; High school students: ¥1,700; Elementary/Junior high: ¥1,200; Children (3+): ¥800; Annual pass: ¥5,000
How to Get There
From Tokyo (Shinjuku)
Take Odakyu Romance Car or Express to Katase-Enoshima Station (55-65 minutes, ¥650 express + ¥1,280 Romance Car surcharge optional). Walk 3 minutes to beach and aquarium. Most convenient direct route from Tokyo.
60 minutes
From Kamakura
Take scenic Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) to Enoshima Station (25 minutes, ¥300). The nostalgic train runs alongside beaches and through neighborhoods. Walk 10 minutes to aquarium. Perfect for combining Kamakura temples with Enoshima.
25 minutes
From Yokohama
Take JR Tokaido Line to Fujisawa, transfer to Odakyu Line to Katase-Enoshima (total 40-45 minutes, ¥700). Or take Shonan Monorail from Ofuna to Shonan-Enoshima for unique suspended monorail experience.
45 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Sagami Bay Great Tank
The massive main tank (1,000 tons) recreates the Sagami Bay ecosystem with 8,000 fish including sardine schools, sea turtles, sharks, and rays. Feeding times (11 AM, 3 PM) see divers enter to feed fish while narrating - arrive 10 minutes early for good viewing spots. The tank's curved acrylic panel provides immersive viewing. Benches allow extended contemplation of the mesmerizing movements. The tank represents local waters visible from the aquarium windows - a unique connection between exhibit and nature.
Jellyfish Fantasy Hall
The Jellyfish Fantasy Hall features artistic displays of 14+ jellyfish species in illuminated tanks creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The 'Jellyfish Planet' spherical tank suspends jellyfish in 360-degree viewing. Colored lighting changes throughout the day creating different moods. Best photography: use faster shutter speeds to freeze tentacle movement or slower speeds for ethereal blur. The low light requires higher ISO or tripod. This exhibit pioneered the aesthetic jellyfish displays now common in modern aquariums worldwide.
Dolphin & Sea Lion Shows
The outdoor stadium hosts dolphin and sea lion shows several times daily (check schedule at entrance). Shows last 15-20 minutes featuring jumps, tricks, and trainer interactions. Arrive 15-20 minutes early for front seats, especially weekends and holidays. The shows balance entertainment with educational content about marine mammal biology and conservation. The outdoor setting with ocean and occasional Mt. Fuji backdrop makes these shows uniquely scenic compared to indoor stadiums.
Mount Fuji Photo Opportunity
On clear days, Mount Fuji is visible across Sagami Bay from the aquarium's beachfront location. The aquarium building itself sometimes serves as foreground for Fuji shots. Best Fuji visibility: autumn through spring mornings (summer often hazy), after passage of weather fronts. Check Fuji visibility forecasts before visiting if this is priority. The beach area outside the aquarium offers unobstructed views. Winter provides highest probability of clear Fuji views.
Family-Friendly Features
The aquarium excels for families: touch pools let kids handle sea stars and shellfish (supervised), penguin and seal viewing areas at child height, interactive displays explaining marine life. The Kapibara section features cute capybaras popular with kids. Nursing rooms and family restrooms throughout. Stroller rental available. The relaxed atmosphere and beach location make this less stressful than some urban aquariums. Allow 2-3 hours minimum, full day possible when combining with beach time.
Dining & Nearby Options
The aquarium's Ocean Cafe Umi no Terrace offers light meals, snacks, and drinks with ocean views (¥800-1,500). Re-entry stamps allow leaving for lunch at nearby beachfront restaurants serving shirasu (whitebait - local specialty), seafood donburi, and beach cafe fare. The Enoshima Island causeway (5-minute walk) has numerous seafood restaurants. Multiple convenience stores near Katase-Enoshima Station. Consider picnicking on the beach after visiting aquarium.
Combining with Enoshima Island
The aquarium sits at the base of Enoshima Island, making them perfect combinations for a full day. Suggested itinerary: Morning at aquarium (2-3 hours), lunch at beachfront restaurant, afternoon climbing Enoshima Island for shrines, caves, and observation tower (2-3 hours). The scenic Enoden railway connection to Kamakura (25 minutes) allows temple visits morning or evening. This creates an ideal day trip from Tokyo combining marine life, island exploring, and beach atmosphere.
Visiting Tips & Planning
Summer weekends and holidays see heavy crowds - visit weekday mornings for better experience. Show times are fixed - plan arrival to attend dolphin/sea lion shows early in visit, then explore exhibits. Download show schedules from website before arriving. The aquarium focuses on Sagami Bay ecosystem - pay attention to deep-sea exhibits unique to this location. Combined tickets available with Enoshima Island attractions offering savings. The beachfront location means summer can be very hot - bring sun protection. Winter provides fewer crowds and higher Mt. Fuji visibility probability.
FAQ
What makes Enoshima Aquarium special?
Enoshima Aquarium (Enosui) is unique for its stunning ocean-view location at Shonan Beach with Mount Fuji backdrop visible on clear days. The aquarium features the largest jellyfish exhibit in Japan with over 50 species in a mesmerizing sphere hall, impressive dolphin and sea lion shows in an outdoor stadium with ocean views, and deep-sea creature exhibits from nearby Sagami Bay. The combination of marine life and coastal scenery makes it distinctive.
How long should I spend at Enoshima Aquarium?
Plan for 2-3 hours to see all exhibits, attend dolphin shows, and enjoy the jellyfish displays. If you want to watch multiple shows, explore touch pools leisurely, and have a meal at the ocean-view restaurant, allocate 3-4 hours. The aquarium is moderately sized compared to larger facilities, making it perfect for a half-day visit. Many combine it with Enoshima Island exploration for a full day.
What are the admission fees?
General admission is 2,500 yen for adults (high school age and older), 1,700 yen for middle school students, 1,200 yen for elementary school students, and 800 yen for children ages 3-6. Annual passes are available for 5,000 yen (adults), offering good value for multiple visits. Online advance purchase sometimes offers small discounts. All exhibits and shows are included in admission with no extra fees.
How do I get to Enoshima Aquarium from Tokyo?
Take the Odakyu Line from Shinjuku Station to Katase-Enoshima Station (about 60 minutes express). The aquarium is a 3-minute walk from the station. Alternatively, JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Fujisawa, then Odakyu to Katase-Enoshima. From Tokyo, the journey takes about 90 minutes total. The aquarium is also walkable from Enoden Enoshima Station (5 minutes) or Enoshima Station on Shonan Monorail (10 minutes).
What are the dolphin show times?
Dolphin shows typically run 3-5 times daily, depending on season and weather. Shows last about 15 minutes in the outdoor Aqua Stadium with beach and ocean backdrop. Arrive 15-20 minutes early for good seats, especially on weekends. Check the daily schedule at the entrance or on the official website as times vary. Shows may be cancelled in bad weather. The splash zone gets very wet, so choose seats accordingly.
What is the jellyfish exhibit like?
The Jellyfish Fantasy Hall (Kurage no Fantajia) is the aquarium's signature exhibit featuring over 50 jellyfish species in artistic displays. The centerpiece is a massive jellyfish sphere surrounded by smaller tanks showing different species and life stages. Atmospheric lighting and music create a meditative, otherworldly experience. It's extremely photogenic and therapeutic to watch. This is one of Japan's most extensive jellyfish collections.
Can you see Mount Fuji from the aquarium?
Yes, on clear days, Mount Fuji is visible from the outdoor dolphin stadium and beach-side areas. Winter months (November-February) offer the best visibility with crisp air. The view combines Fuji, ocean, Enoshima Island, and marine life, creating iconic photo opportunities. Early morning typically has the clearest views before afternoon haze develops. Staff can advise if Fuji is visible on your visit day.
Is the aquarium suitable for young children?
Very family-friendly with touch pools where children can interact with small sea creatures, colorful exhibits at child height, penguin displays that delight kids, and engaging shows. Stroller access is good throughout. Nursing rooms and diaper changing facilities are available. The compact layout prevents children from getting lost. Most exhibits have low-angle viewing suitable for small children. Children's admission is reasonably priced.
Are there restaurants or food options?
Yes, the Ocean Deck restaurant on the second floor offers ocean-view dining with seafood bowls, curry, pasta, and kids' meals. Prices range from 900-1,500 yen. The Stadium Cafe near the dolphin show serves light snacks, ice cream, and drinks. A small shop sells packaged snacks. Outside food and drinks are not allowed inside. The nearby Katase area and Enoshima Island have many additional dining options.
What other exhibits are highlights?
The Sagami Bay large tank recreates local marine ecosystems with sharks, rays, and schools of sardines. The penguin exhibit features adorable African penguins. Deep-sea creature displays show bizarre fish from the depths of Sagami Bay. The sea turtle pool showcases conservation efforts. Touch pools let visitors interact with starfish and sea cucumbers. Each zone provides educational information about marine biology and conservation.
Is the aquarium crowded?
Moderately crowded on weekends, holidays, and summer vacation (July-August). The jellyfish hall and dolphin shows get busiest. Weekday visits, especially in the morning, offer more comfortable viewing. The aquarium manages capacity well, so it rarely feels overwhelmingly packed. Winter months are quietest. Arrive right at opening (9am) for the most peaceful experience before tour groups arrive around 10-11am.
Can I combine the aquarium with Enoshima Island?
Absolutely recommended! Enoshima Island is a 10-15 minute walk across the bridge from the aquarium. Most visitors explore both in one trip. The island offers shrines, caves, ocean views, seafood restaurants, and a sea candle observation tower. Together they make a perfect full-day outing from Tokyo. Visit the aquarium first (2-3 hours), then have lunch and explore the island in the afternoon.
Is the aquarium wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Yes, fully accessible with elevators to all floors, wide pathways, barrier-free viewing areas, and accessible restrooms. Wheelchair rental is available at the entrance. The outdoor dolphin stadium has wheelchair seating areas. Strollers can navigate throughout easily. The aquarium's modern design prioritizes accessibility. Service animals are permitted. Staff can assist with accessibility needs upon request.
Are there English signs and information?
Yes, major exhibits have English explanations alongside Japanese. Species names are often written in English. The facility map is available in English. English announcements are made for show times. However, detailed educational content is primarily in Japanese. The visual nature of aquarium exhibits makes language less critical. QR codes at some exhibits link to multilingual information on smartphones.
What are the operating hours?
Generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). During summer vacation and busy periods, hours may extend until 6:00 PM or later. The aquarium is open year-round with rare exceptions for maintenance. Check the official website for seasonal hour variations and closure days. Arriving at opening time provides the best experience with fewer crowds and fresher dolphins for shows.
Can I take photos and videos?
Yes, photography and video recording are allowed throughout the aquarium for personal use. Flash photography is prohibited as it disturbs marine life. Tripods and monopods are not permitted. The jellyfish hall offers particularly photogenic opportunities with atmospheric lighting. Commercial filming requires advance permission. Respect other visitors when photographing and avoid blocking pathways. Live streaming is generally permitted but check current policies.
What should I buy at the gift shop?
The aquarium shop sells jellyfish-themed merchandise including plush toys, T-shirts, and stationery that make unique souvenirs. Other popular items include marine creature plushies, penguin goods, snacks with aquarium packaging, and educational books. Prices range from 300 yen for small items to 3,000+ yen for premium toys. The jellyfish products are exclusive to Enoshima Aquarium and make great gifts.
Is there a touch pool or interactive experience?
Yes, the Interactive Zone features touch pools where visitors can gently touch starfish, sea cucumbers, and other tide pool creatures. Staff supervise and explain proper handling. There's also a hands-on zone showing jellyfish polyp growth stages. Feeding demonstrations occur at scheduled times. These interactive elements engage children and adults alike, making learning about marine life tactile and memorable. Wash hands before and after touching.
Can you swim at the beach next to the aquarium?
Yes, Katasekaigan Beach (Shonan Beach) adjacent to the aquarium is open for swimming during summer (typically July to August). It's one of the most popular beaches near Tokyo. Beach season brings crowds and beach houses. Outside swimming season, the beach is still accessible for walking and relaxing. The beach view enhances the aquarium experience. Swimming is free but facilities like showers may have fees during summer.
What is the best season to visit?
Each season offers different appeal. Summer combines beach and aquarium but brings maximum crowds. Spring and autumn provide pleasant weather with fewer visitors and clear Fuji views. Winter is quietest with best Mount Fuji visibility from the dolphin stadium. The aquarium's indoor exhibits are enjoyable year-round. For the most comfortable experience with smaller crowds, visit on weekday mornings in autumn or winter.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Engaku-ji Temple
One of Kamakura's most important Zen temples, founded in 1282, featuring National Treasure buildings, tranquil Zen gardens, and serving as the second-ranked of Kamakura's Five Great Zen Temples.
Enoshima Island
A small island resort connected by bridge to the mainland, offering beaches, shrines, caves, an observation tower, and stunning views of Mt. Fuji across Sagami Bay.
Hakone Onsen
A renowned hot spring resort area nestled in the mountains southwest of Tokyo, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji, volcanic valleys, and traditional Japanese inns.
Great Buddha of Kamakura
A monumental bronze Buddha statue standing 13.35 meters tall, sitting peacefully in the open air at Kotoku-in Temple for over 750 years, one of Japan's most iconic images.
Hasedera Temple (Kamakura)
A scenic hillside temple famous for its massive wooden Kannon statue, thousands of jizo statues, and seasonal flowers with ocean views over Kamakura's coastline.
Kawasaki Daishi Heiken-ji
One of Japan's most important Buddhist temples, famous for yakuyoke blessings to ward off bad luck and drawing over 3 million New Year visitors annually.
Sankeien Garden
A stunning 175,000 square meter traditional Japanese garden featuring historic buildings relocated from across Japan, seasonal flowers, ponds, and peaceful walking paths away from Yokohama's urban center.
Yokohama Chinatown
Japan's largest Chinatown with over 600 shops and restaurants packed into vibrant streets, featuring authentic Chinese cuisine, colorful gates, temples, and festivals year-round.