Shimane AQUAS Aquarium, officially known as the Shimane Prefectural Aquarium, is one of the largest aquariums in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions of Japan. Located on the Sea of Japan coast between Hamada City and Gotsu City in Shimane Prefecture, the aquarium introduces visitors to everything from the marine life of the local waters to the fascinating ecosystems of oceans around the world.
Known affectionately as AQUAS, the aquarium is a popular destination for families, couples, school trips, and visitors of all ages. Its combination of fascinating marine life, interactive exhibits, entertaining performances, and educational programs makes it much more than a place to simply look at fish.
One of AQUAS’s most popular attractions is its beluga whales. The aquarium is the only facility in western Japan where visitors can see these beautiful white whales.
Among the most famous performances is the “Happy Bubble Ring”, in which a beluga creates a perfect ring of air underwater. The shimmering ring rises through the water like a delicate smoke ring, creating a magical sight that captivates visitors.
This unusual behavior has attracted attention both in Japan and abroad. There is also a popular belief that seeing a bubble ring brings good luck and happiness, making the performance a special moment for many visitors.
In recent years, the belugas have also introduced new performances, including the “Magic Ring,” in which a bubble ring seems to appear suddenly from nowhere. These evolving performances give returning visitors something new to look forward to.
AQUAS is home to approximately 400 species and 10,000 individual marine animals. The exhibits range from fish native to the Sea of Japan to brilliantly colored tropical species and large marine animals.
Visitors can also encounter fish closely associated with Shimane, including the flying fish, the prefecture’s official fish, and Japanese bluefish, known as akamutsu or nodoguro, a highly prized fish in Japan.
One of the aquarium’s most impressive exhibits is the huge “Sea of Mythology” tank. Inspired by the sharks described as “wani” in the mythology of Izumo, the exhibit recreates a dramatic underwater world where sharks and rays glide through the water.
Watching these large creatures move gracefully through the enormous tank creates the sensation of being immersed in the ocean itself.
The Penguin Pavilion, which opened in 2008, is another popular area of AQUAS. Four species are kept here: king penguins, gentoo penguins, rockhopper penguins, and Humboldt penguins.
Each species has its own distinctive appearance and personality, allowing visitors to observe the different ways these fascinating birds move and interact.
A particularly unusual feature is the large inverted L-shaped acrylic tank. Visitors can look up from beneath the water and watch the penguins swimming overhead, creating the impression that they are flying through the water.
This distinctive viewing design is uncommon among aquariums in Japan and offers an especially memorable perspective on these remarkable birds.
AQUAS is organized around the concept of “From the seas of Shimane to the Sea of Japan, and then to the oceans of the world.” The exhibits are arranged by theme, allowing visitors to gradually expand their understanding of marine ecosystems.
On the first floor, visitors can explore the ecosystems of the Sea of Japan. The second floor features performances by beluga whales, sea lions, and seals. On the third floor, exhibits introduce marine life from oceans around the world.
There are also many specialized displays, including a Micro Aquarium, a coral reef tank recreating a tropical underwater environment, and an exhibit inspired by the ecosystems of the Amazon.
Educational displays explain topics such as the evolution of marine organisms and their relationships with the environment, making AQUAS an enjoyable place to learn as well as explore.
Throughout the year, AQUAS hosts a variety of seasonal events. One popular program is “Night AQUAS,” which allows visitors to experience the aquarium after dark. In winter, visitors can also enjoy special penguin parades.
For those who want to discover what happens behind the exhibits, backstage tours offer a glimpse into areas normally closed to visitors. Educational interpretation programs also provide opportunities to learn more about the animals and their habitats.
These experiences are particularly enjoyable for children, while adults can also gain new knowledge and insights into marine life.
AQUAS is well equipped for families, with a restaurant, museum shop, and children’s play area. The museum shop offers original AQUAS merchandise and other souvenirs that make memorable reminders of a visit.
Outside the aquarium, visitors can also enjoy open spaces and playground areas, making it possible to spend much of the day at the facility.
A stage for Iwami Kagura performances also provides an opportunity to experience the traditional performing arts of the local Iwami region. This combination of marine education and local culture adds another dimension to a visit.
Shimane AQUAS Aquarium is conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from Hishi Station on the JR San’in Main Line. It can also be reached by bus from both Hamada Station and Gotsu Station.
Its location along the Sea of Japan makes AQUAS an ideal stop on a coastal road trip. Visitors can easily combine a visit to the aquarium with nearby beaches, scenic coastal attractions, cultural sites, and other destinations around Hamada and Gotsu.
Shimane AQUAS Aquarium is far more than a traditional aquarium. It is a place where visitors can experience the mystery of the ocean, discover the extraordinary diversity of marine life, and learn how living creatures are connected to their environments.
The graceful movements of the beluga whales, the spectacular bubble-ring performances, the diverse marine life of the Sea of Japan, and the unique penguin exhibits all offer memorable experiences for visitors of every age.
Set against the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the San’in region, AQUAS provides an enjoyable way to discover the fascinating world beneath the waves. When traveling through western Shimane, be sure to include this inspiring aquarium in your itinerary and experience the wonder of the ocean for yourself.