Guida
Miyajima Aquarium is a specialized marine facility located on the sacred island of Miyajima in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Themed around the natural beauty of the Seto Inland Sea, its location right next to the world-famous Itsukushima Shrine makes it an ideal stop during your sightseeing tour. The aquarium features a collection of over 15,000 specimens across 380 different species. It is a wonderful spot where families, couples, and friends can observe the fascinating behaviors of marine life up close.
Miyajima has long been revered as a sacred island. To ensure the building harmonizes with this spiritual landscape, the architecture incorporates a traditional Japanese aesthetic. Situated within the Seto Inland Sea National Park, the aquarium also serves an important educational role in conveying the importance of the local natural environment. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated to highlight the unique biological characteristics and the natural beauty of the Seto Inland Sea region.
The main building is divided into 10 distinct zones that guide you through the mysterious world of the Seto Inland Sea. A standout feature is the "Miyajima Tidal Flat" zone, which recreates the environment around the Great Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine, allowing visitors to observe the precious ecosystem created by the dramatic tides. The marine mammal area is also highly popular, featuring adorable animals such as penguins, fur seals, sea lions, and small-clawed otters. Additionally, the live pool hosts daily spectacular events, such as the energetic sea lion shows, which are a highlight for visitors of all ages.
The aquarium is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). During the bright daylight hours, we recommend viewing the vibrant displays of the Seto Inland Sea's colors in the tanks. In the late afternoon, the atmosphere becomes more relaxed, making it a perfect time to watch the gentle movements of the sea creatures to end your day. Please note that the facility will be closed for maintenance from December 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027. Please check the latest schedule before your visit.
Beyond just viewing exhibits, Miyajima Aquarium offers engaging interactive programs. The sea lion show is a crowd favorite that captures much attention. Other programs, such as penguin feeding times, Archerfish feeding demonstrations, and otter feeding sessions, allow visitors to feel a closer connection to the daily lives and natural behaviors of these animals. These activities are essential for providing a deeper understanding of marine ecology.
The aquarium is located in the immediate vicinity of the World Heritage site, Itsukushima Shrine. A common and highly recommended sightseeing route is to visit the shrine first and then walk to the aquarium, which is within easy walking distance. The surrounding area is also filled with charming cafes and shops where you can enjoy the tranquil scenery of the Seto Inland Sea while spending a relaxing time on the island.
While the aquarium is climate-controlled for comfort, some areas may feel slightly humid or damp due to the nature of the exhibits. We recommend wearing comfortable, casual clothing. Please observe proper etiquette to respect the living creatures on display. Note that photography may be restricted in certain areas. For payments, both cash and credit cards (as well as various IC cards) are accepted.