Otaru Aquarium is the largest aquarium in Hokkaido and one of the oldest aquariums in Japan. It was built in 1974 and is located on the coast in Otaru, giving it a seaside atmosphere and beautiful views. It is about 6 kilometers, or just 25 minutes by bus, from central Otaru. Inside, about 5,000 animals of 250 species are on display, with a focus on animals native to Hokkaido and polar regions, along with shows featuring animals such as dolphins and seals. There is also an amusement park right next door.
The main highlight of Otaru Aquarium is its animals, many of which are rarely seen elsewhere because they are local or polar species, such as sea lions, walruses, seals, Japanese coastal dolphins, and several species of penguin. They are displayed in open enclosures designed to resemble their natural habitat near the coast, and sometimes you can even spot wild seals and sea lions coming ashore to sunbathe on the rocks nearby.
photos by MIKI Yoshihitoi from flickr.com/photos/mujitra/4887833239 ( cc by 2.0 )
photos by MIKI Yoshihitoi from flickr.com/photos/mujitra/4888445368 ( cc by 2.0 )
photos by MIKI Yoshihitoi from flickr.com/photos/mujitra/4888453214 ( cc by 2.0 )
Another highlight here is the marine mammal shows featuring dolphins, walruses, sea lions, and seals, as well as the "Penguin Snow Walking" show, in which large penguins march in a line along a snowy path, letting visitors get an up-close look at how adorable they are.
Otaru Aquarium is divided into three zones:
1. Aquarium Zone - The indoor zone, with about 150 tanks of animals large and small, plus penguins and a dolphin show area.
2. Marine Park - The outdoor zone displaying marine mammals such as seals, sea lions, and walruses. It is closed during winter.
3. Amusement Park - The amusement park zone, also closed during winter.