Shimoda Aquarium in Shizuoka
Last updated: September 13, 2026
This aquarium doesn't sit beside the sea — it floats on it: Shimoda Aquarium fills a natural cove at the tip of the Izu Peninsula, with the Aquadome Perry, a circular hall anchored on the water, holding more than 4,000 creatures of some 50 species beneath your feet. Dolphins live in the cove itself rather than a pool, performing and playing in real seawater metres from the walkways, joined by sea lions, seals and penguins along the shore. It is Japan's marine life met on the ocean's own terms, in the harbour town where Perry's black ships opened the country.
Itinerary
- Stop at: Shimoda Aquarium
Frequently Asked Questions
A circular aquarium hall that floats on the cove — named for Commodore Perry, whose fleet anchored off Shimoda — with a large tank inside showing Izu's marine life, from schooling fish to rays. Walking its ring while the structure rides the water gently underfoot is an experience no land-built aquarium offers.
The dolphins live in the natural bay, fenced by the cove rather than concrete, so shows happen in open seawater with the tide and fish coming and going — and encounter programmes let visitors meet them at the water's edge or, in season, in the bay itself. It's one of the few places in Japan where dolphins perform in the actual sea.
The aquarium is about 25 minutes on foot or a short bus ride from Izukyu-Shimoda Station, the end of the scenic Izu Kyuko line — roughly two and three-quarter hours from Tokyo by direct Odoriko limited express. It pairs naturally with Shimoda's beaches and historic harbour district.