Toba Aquarium, located in Ise-Shima, Mie Prefecture, is one of the largest aquariums in Japan and is home to around 1,200 species. It is also famous as the only place in Japan where you can see both sea otters and dugongs. In this article, we’ll cover everything from how to buy tickets, tips for visiting, and must-see shows to restaurants, souvenirs, access from Tokyo and Osaka, and opening hours — all with recommendations from a FUN! JAPAN editor who actually visited!
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Where is Toba Aquarium? How much time should you allow?
Toba Aquarium is a large aquarium known for housing the largest variety of living creatures in Japan. Here are some useful points for planning your trip, including its location and how much time you should allow for your visit.
Toba Aquarium in Ise-Shima, Mie Prefecture
Toba Aquarium is one of Japan’s leading aquariums, located in Toba City, Mie Prefecture. With about 1,200 species, it boasts the largest number in Japan and is known as the only facility in the country where you can see both sea otters and dugongs. The surrounding Ise-Shima area is a popular tourist destination, famous for its beautiful ria coastline. Situated along the coastline of Ise-Shima National Park, the location allows visitors to fully experience the rich nature and charm of the sea.
Tickets can be purchased online! Advance reservations recommended
Tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter on the day of your visit, but since it tends to get crowded during peak tourist seasons, it’s safer to buy your tickets online in advance. On “KKDay,” you can purchase tickets valid for any day within 30 days of purchase, so there’s no need to worry if your travel plans change slightly. If you want to enter smoothly, we recommend making a reservation in advance.
▶Purchase “Toba Aquarium” Admission Ticket (KKDay)
How much time do you need at Toba Aquarium? From a quick visit to a leisurely stay
Based on the editor’s experience, if you walk through the aquarium at a brisk pace, you can see the main exhibits in about two hours. If you have more time, it’s best to set aside half a day so you can enjoy lunch, watch shows, and shop for souvenirs at your leisure. There are plenty of benches inside, allowing you to relax and watch the animals in front of the tanks at your own pace. With so many exhibits, aquarium lovers will surely enjoy spending an entire day here without getting bored.
When you think of Toba Aquarium, you think of “sea otters”! How can you see them?
When people hear “Toba Aquarium,” the first thing that comes to mind for many is the sea otter. Since this is the only place in Japan where you can see sea otters, people come from all over the country for this special experience. Here, we’ll introduce the characteristics of the sea otters at Toba Aquarium and how you can see them.
Toba Aquarium: The only place in Japan where sea otters are kept
Toba Aquarium is the only aquarium in Japan that keeps sea otters. While sea otters could once be seen at aquariums across the country, their numbers have declined, and as of October 2025, only two remain in Japan — both at Toba Aquarium. Because they are so rare, the opportunity to see them in person is extremely valuable.
Meet “Mei” and “Kira,” the sea otters! How can you tell them apart?
The two sea otters living at Toba Aquarium are Mei and Kira. Each has a unique personality, and if you carefully observe their behavior and expressions, you’ll notice the differences. Knowing their profiles in advance will make your visit even more enjoyable, as you’ll be able to tell them apart and appreciate just how cute they are!
Mei’s Profile
Born at Toba Aquarium in 2004, Mei is the “big sister” of the pair. She’s extremely athletic and works in perfect harmony with her keepers. Her most impressive feat is the “Ika Mimi Jump” (Squid Ear Jump), performed during feeding time — a must-see that never fails to excite the crowd.
Kira’s Profile
Kira, born in 2008, is a girl with a laid-back and easygoing personality, quite the opposite of Mei. She’s a real gourmet and only eats three things: squid, shellfish, and shrimp. Her special trick is the “Super Fast Bye-Bye,” and her adorable gestures have captured the hearts of many visitors. Just watching her is sure to make you feel relaxed.
How to Tell the Two Sea Otters Apart
The key points to distinguish the two are their fur and facial features. Mei has an overall lighter, whitish fur, while Kira’s belly is darker and blackish. Mei also has a white scar on her nose and shorter whiskers, so you can easily tell them apart if you look closely.
How to View the Sea Otters at Toba Aquarium: Until What Time?
As of March 2025, the viewing method for the sea otters has been updated to ensure all visitors have a fair chance to see them.
Viewing starts by lining up at the entrance to the “Polar Sea” area. Once in line, follow the staff’s instructions to enter the viewing area in front of the tank. Groups of about 10 people are guided in at a time, and each group can watch for one minute from their preferred spot. When your time is up, staff will guide the next group in.
If you’re visiting with a group, let the staff know your group size when entering the viewing area for a smoother experience. Although the viewing time is short, if you prepare your camera or smartphone in advance, you’ll have plenty of time to take photos during your minute.
Please note that the line for viewing usually closes at 16:30. If you’re visiting in the afternoon, it’s best to line up for the sea otters first before exploring the other exhibits. Be careful not to miss your chance to see them!
Don’t Miss the “Sea Otter Feeding Time”—Held Three Times a Day!
The best time to see the otters’ cuteness is during “Feeding Time.” It’s held three times a day: 9:40, 13:00 (shellfish only), and 16:10. Especially in the morning and evening, you might catch the thrilling “Ika Mimi Jump,” where the otters leap to catch squid stuck to the glass.
Sea otters skillfully crack open shellfish and squid on their bellies, and their adorable actions are sure to melt your heart. Please note that feeding times may change or be canceled depending on the otters’ condition.
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Animals You’ll Want to See at Toba Aquarium: Dugongs, Capybaras, and More
Toba Aquarium is not only home to sea otters, but also offers the chance to encounter unique and rare creatures. Here, our editor who actually visited the aquarium introduces some must-see animals.
Dugong: One of Only Three in Captivity Worldwide
The dugong, said to be the inspiration for mermaid legends, is a marine mammal that mainly feeds on seagrass in shallow waters. There are only three dugongs in captivity worldwide, and in Japan, you can see one only at Toba Aquarium. Watching it float gently and dive gracefully in the large tank feels like watching a real-life mermaid.
Capybara: Adorable as They Relax in the Jungle
The capybara is the world’s largest rodent and can stay underwater for over five minutes to protect itself from predators. At Toba Aquarium, they live in the "Jungle World" area, which recreates a tropical rainforest climate, and you can observe them relaxing by the water. Their relaxed expressions are sure to warm visitors’ hearts.
Finless Porpoise: You Might Spot Them Swimming in Ise Bay!
The finless porpoise is a small dolphin species with smooth skin and no dorsal fin. At Toba Aquarium, they are displayed in the "Seas of Ise-Shima & Japan" section, but you might also spot them swimming in Ise Bay outside the aquarium. When our editor visited, they were able to observe a small finless porpoise floating among the waves!
Walrus: Be Amazed by Their Dynamic Feeding Time!
The walrus, native to the Arctic Ocean, is known for its massive body and high intelligence. At Toba Aquarium, you can watch "Walrus Feeding Time," where their training and feeding sessions are open to the public. You can experience their impressive size and their interactions with the keepers up close, making it as entertaining as a show.
American Alligator: Two Giant Alligators on Display
The American alligator, as its name suggests, is a large alligator native to states like Mississippi in the United States. Toba Aquarium keeps two of them. You can usually watch their feeding on Fridays, so if you’re lucky, you might witness their powerful eating scenes.
What Kind of Shows Can You See at Toba Aquarium?
In addition to the exhibits, Toba Aquarium also hosts a variety of shows and events. Watching the animals show off their unique personalities and abilities is another highlight of your visit.
Sea Lion Show
The sea lion show, held three times daily at 10:30, 13:00, and 15:30, is a popular program for both children and adults. The sea lions perform in perfect harmony with their trainers. Their smooth swimming, dynamic jumps, and adorable movements are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Penguin Parade
At the "Aqua Promenade," you can watch the "Penguin Parade," where penguins walk right in front of the audience. This event is held only once a day at 12:00 and lasts about 10 minutes. The sight of the penguins waddling along is picture-perfect and always draws a crowd.
In addition, you can also enjoy "Feeding Time," where you can watch animals such as sea otters, walruses, and sea lions being fed at their respective tanks. This is a great opportunity to observe the animals’ behaviors and habits you might miss just by viewing the exhibits, so be sure to check it out.
▶Purchase "Toba Aquarium" Admission Ticket (KKDay)
Restaurants at Toba Aquarium: Lunch Menu and Opening Hours
There are two restaurants inside the aquarium where you can enjoy a meal, making it convenient to take a break between exhibits. Here, we introduce the features of each restaurant.
Restaurant "Hana Sango": Serving Sea Otter Curry
This calm and relaxing restaurant is located opposite the large tank that recreates a coral reef sea. The must-try dish here is "Mei-chan’s Curry" (¥1,600), inspired by the sea otter Mei. You can choose between mild and medium-spicy flavors. This dish is available only during lunch hours from 11:00 to 14:30.
🍴See information about "Hana Sango" (Tabelog)
Restaurant "Bayside": Stunning Ocean Views
This bright and airy restaurant offers a panoramic view of Toba Bay, especially from the window seats. The menu mainly features light meals, but the top recommendation is the local specialty "Ise Udon" (750 yen). The thick, chewy noodles and rich sauce are truly addictive.
🍴See information about "Bayside" (Tabelog)
Opening Hours (Both Restaurants)
- Regular (September 1 – July 31): 10:00–16:30
- Summer Vacation (August 1 – August 31): 9:30–17:00
Recommended Souvenirs from Toba Aquarium: Many Limited-Edition Goods Available
There are two shops inside the facility, offering a wide range of items from exclusive goods featuring motifs of sea otters and dugongs to unique souvenirs from Mie Prefecture. It’s a great spot to stop by for a memorable keepsake or to find the perfect gift.
Recommended Souvenir ①: Plush Toys
©TOBA AQUARIUM
The most popular and classic items are plush toys inspired by sea otters, dugongs, and finless porpoises. Their fluffy texture and adorable expressions make them a favorite among both children and adults, and they are a must-have memento of your visit.
Recommended Souvenir ②: Sweets
©TOBA AQUARIUM
©TOBA AQUARIUM
There is also a great selection of edible souvenirs. Cookies printed with illustrations of the animals (890 yen) and original design Konpeito candy (600 yen) are both cute and perfect as gifts.
Recommended Souvenir ③: Unique Mie Prefecture Goods
In addition to aquarium-themed items, be sure to check out local specialties. Genuine pearl accessories, a specialty of Toba City in Mie Prefecture, are popular elegant souvenirs that make for wonderful keepsakes.
Access & Opening Hours of Toba Aquarium
Toba Aquarium is conveniently located for easy access from all over Japan by public transportation. When planning your trip, be sure to check directions from your departure point and confirm opening hours in advance.
Access from Tokyo
From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen Nozomi to Nagoya Station. Transfer to the Kintetsu Limited Express or JR Rapid Mie, and get off at Kintetsu or JR Toba Station. The total travel time is about 3.5 hours.
Access from Osaka
From Osaka-Namba Station, take the Kintetsu Limited Express directly to Kintetsu Toba Station. The total travel time is about 2 hours.
Toba Aquarium Facility Information
- Address: 3-3-6 Toba, Toba City, Mie Prefecture
- Access: About a 10-minute walk from JR or Kintetsu Toba Station
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM) *Hours may vary by season
- Closed: Open year-round (no holidays)
- Admission: Adults 2,800 yen, Elementary & Junior High School Students (ages 6–15) 1,600 yen, Children (ages 3–6) 800 yen
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