Guida
Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort is a comprehensive tourism complex located within the Saikai National Park in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture. It brings together an aquarium, a sightseeing boat terminal, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Facing the southern Kujukushima islands, the facility offers a variety of leisure experiences, centered around the 'Sea Kirara' aquarium, which showcases stunning marine life alongside the breathtaking coastal scenery.
The area is nestled in a rich natural environment as part of the Saikai National Park. The facility originally opened in 1994 as 'Saikai Pearl Sea Resort' and was renamed to its current name, 'Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort,' on April 1, 2014. Today, it is managed and operated by 'Sasebo Pearl Sea,' a third-sector organization, ensuring high-quality service for visitors.
There are many diverse attractions within the resort. At the 'Sea Kirara' aquarium, you can observe approximately 16,000 marine creatures across 370 species, housed in 65 different tanks, including various fish, jellyfish, and dolphins. For a more active experience, the 'Pearl Queen' sightseeing boat offers a 50-minute cruise through the intricate geography of the Kuj or Kujukushima islands, allowing you to witness the stunning landscape up close. Additionally, the marina provides excellent opportunities for water sports such as yacht sailing and sea kayaking, perfect for those looking to enjoy the ocean directly.
The facility is open year-round, but the way you enjoy it changes with the seasons. Please note that while the Sea Kirara aquarium generally operates from 9:00 to 18:00, the closing time is earlier (17:00) during the winter season from November to February. For sightseeing boat operations, we recommend checking the status in advance, as cruises may be canceled due to weather conditions such as heavy rain or strong winds. During the summer months, the marina activities become particularly vibrant and popular.
Visitors can engage in various sea-related activities here. The sightseeing cruise is a signature experience that allows you to feel the natural rhythm of the Kujukushima islands. At the marina, you can spend quality time on the water through yacht sailing or sea kayaking. Inside the aquarium, there are educational corners, such as pearl extraction demonstrations, to deepen your understanding of marine life. You can also visit the on-site shops to purchase snacks, soft drinks, and unique souvenirs.
There are several other scenic spots near Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort within the Saikai National Park area. You can easily combine your visit with the 'Mori Kirara' botanical garden or the 'Tenkaiho' lookout point, which offers spectacular views. In terms of access, the resort is located approximately 7 minutes (about 4km) by car from the Sasebo Chuo Interchange on the West Kyushu Expressway.
To ensure a smooth visit, please note the following: The 'Pearl Queen' sightseeing boat is barrier-free, equipped with elevators and multi-purpose toilets. All boats are strictly non-smoking. Regarding pets, pets are allowed on the 'Pearl Queen' only if they are kept in a dedicated pet cage; however, they are not permitted on smaller sightseeing boats. Wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent at the sightseeing boat ticket counter on a first-come, first-served basis (limited to 3 units). For payments, credit cards, electronic money (ID, WAON, PayPay, etc.) are widely accepted. Photography and video recording are permitted on all sightseeing boats.