I visited in September 2026. The Notojima Aquarium,
which is part of the “Kakun” group, is a hands-on aquarium that houses and displays approximately 40,000 specimens across 500 species, focusing primarily on fish found in the waters off the Noto Peninsula. Although it suffered extensive damage from the earthquake—including structural damage and road subsidence—it has been restored and reopened in March 2025. I purchased an admission ticket for 1,890 yen and strolled around the grounds.
First, I observed the large tank called “The Blue World.” Unfortunately, the whale shark had passed away in January of this year, so I enjoyed watching the rays and other fish swim.
Next, the “Noto Marine Corridor,” where you can enjoy an underwater stroll via projection mapping, was incredibly magical and wonderful. Here, a whale shark swam gracefully along the walkway.
After that, it was one fascinating sight after another: creatures native to the Noto area, deep-sea creatures, jellyfish gliding leisurely, and tanks where large schools of sea bream swam in perfect formation.
Then, we watched the dolphin and sea lion show. We were impressed as the dolphins and sea lions skillfully danced, retrieved thrown rings, and jumped, all moving exactly as the trainers instructed. In particular, the host’s exaggerated gestures and the way he spoke slowly clearly showed his consideration for the children.
By far the worst aquarium I have ever seen. Old and neglected. The animals are kept in small, depressing tanks. It resembles a prison more than an amusement park. We felt especially sorry for the turtles and dolphins. If you care about the welfare of animals, do not visit this place.
This is an absolute gem in an already incredible country, well worth the somewhat detour it might require.
Our family drove here in October as we had some hours to kill after checking out of our Kanazawa hotel, before we could check in at our next accommodation.
Not expecting much, we were blown away by everything from the size and location of the facilities, to the sheer amount of animals, the friendly and enthusiastic staff, shows, etc.
The aquarium is quite large with many, small and large, in-door and out-door tanks, located on the northern picturesque shore of Notojima, and you can easily spend a day, which will cost you less than a burger at sea world, Disneyland or similar.
We cannot recommend this place enough, and would urge anyone to treat themselves to this hidden gem of Japan.
Why not stop and eat some fresh fish on your way there or back, probably the best you’ll ever get.
Even though everything was very good and the staff are friendly, I can’t support a place where animals are kept in confinement. Many of the animals looked bored, endlessly swimming in circles, only awaiting their next meal. Many are kept in tiny tanks, much too small for them. So
many amazing creatures but it’s so sad to see them in these conditions.
If you’re wondering whether it’s worth coming all the way out to this aquarium, the answer is yes! It’s quite a large one, not as big as Okinawa or Osaka but on par with Otaru or Toba, and it has some unique and well presented tanks. The main tank with the whale shark is beautifully illuminated and the whale shark swims right along the sides, allowing for some great shots. If you catch the morning limited express it’s doable as a day trip from Kanazawa along with Wakura Onsen.
