Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium

The Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium opened in 1992 as one of Japan's largest and most sophisticated marine facilities, positioned strategically at the Garden Pier in Nagoya Port. The aquarium was established to showcase marine biodiversity while emphasizing conservation and education, quickly becoming a cornerstone attraction in central Japan's Chubu region.

The facility spans an impressive 35,000 square meters and houses approximately 50,000 marine creatures representing over 500 species. Its architectural design divides into two main buildings: the North Building focuses on cetaceans and their evolution, while the South Building presents a journey through the world's oceans from Japan to Antarctica. The aquarium gained international recognition for its successful breeding programs, particularly for bottlenose dolphins and beluga whales, contributing significantly to marine research and conservation efforts in Asia.

Visitors encounter several signature experiences, beginning with the Main Pool, one of the world's largest aquarium tanks holding 13,400 tons of water where killer whales, beluga whales, and dolphins perform their natural behaviors. The daily marine mammal presentations demonstrate training techniques and animal intelligence without traditional circus-style performances. The Antarctic Zone features a walk-through penguin exhibit where four species, including emperor and gentoo penguins, inhabit a recreated polar environment maintained at minus temperatures. The Kuroshio Tank displays tropical fish from Japan's warm currents, while the Tropical Coral Reef section showcases vibrant coral ecosystems with sea turtles gliding overhead through tunnel viewing areas.

The aquarium is located at 1-3 Minato-machi, Minato Ward in Nagoya. Visitors can reach it via the Meiko Line subway, disembarking at Nagoya-ko Station and walking approximately five minutes. From central Nagoya Station, the journey takes roughly 25 minutes by subway. Parking facilities accommodate 700 vehicles at ¥500 per day. General admission costs ¥2,030 for adults, ¥1,010 for elementary and junior high school students, and ¥500 for children aged four and above. Combined tickets with the neighboring Nagoya Port Sea Train Land amusement park offer reduced rates at ¥2,640 for adults.