WakayamaTravel

Observe table corals and tropical fish in the sea via aquarium and underwater observation tower

About this spot

A historic marine museum that opened in 1970 at Japan's southernmost point in Kushimoto. The Kushimoto coast is known as the world's northernmost sea for coral colonies, influenced by the Kuroshio Current, and is registered under the Ramsar Convention. The aquarium features tanks recreating the Kushimoto sea and sea turtles swimming peacefully. At the underwater observation tower at the end of a pier extending seaward, you can observe wild fish and coral through windows at about 6m depth. The experience of peering into actual sea rather than a tank is more powerful than imagined. The dramatic shift from mountain rock formations to coastal scenery at the tour's conclusion is the special joy of this course. An additional-fee semi-submersible sightseeing boat lets you enjoy table coral colonies even more closely.

Tips

About 1 hour by car from Taki no Hai via Route 42. Free parking is available. Tickets typically combine the aquarium and underwater observation tower, with the semi-submersible boat as a separate charge and subject to cancellation due to sea conditions. You'll walk on a pier over the sea to reach the observation tower, so bring something to wear if it's windy for comfort. Note the early closing time and allow ample afternoon time.