Numazu Port and Deep Sea Aquarium
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Numazu Port and Deep Sea Aquarium

4.1
·9k reviews·Numazu, Japan

Discover the mysteries of the deep sea with ancient coelacanths and glowing creatures in this unique aquarium.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Numazu Port and Deep Sea Aquarium

Numazu Port and Deep Sea Aquarium

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the mysteries of the deep sea with ancient coelacanths and glowing creatures in this unique aquarium.

4.1
(9k reviews)

"A unique and educational experience with reasonable prices, worth a visit for its deep-sea focus."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Affordable Admission

Reasonable ticket prices make this a great value for a unique experience. :moneybag:

🐙 Seasonal Surprises

Animal availability varies by season; you might miss certain species like the flapjack octopus. :octopus:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Elusive Coelacanth

The Elusive Coelacanth

Deep Sea Creatures Section

Marvel at preserved specimens of the ancient coelacanth, a true living fossil.

Bioluminescent Wonders

Bioluminescent Wonders

Deep Sea Creatures Section

Witness the eerie glow of deep-sea fish and other creatures that light up the abyss.

Unique Deep-Sea Invertebrates

Unique Deep-Sea Invertebrates

Deep Sea Creatures Section

Encounter fascinating and sometimes creepy creatures like giant isopods and deep-sea octopuses.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds, as weekends can get busy. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding port area. Check the aquarium's operating hours before you go, as they can vary.

Exploring the Port and Beyond

The aquarium is part of the vibrant Numazu Port, offering fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere. Combine your visit with a stroll through the port's market and restaurants for a full day of exploration. This area is a great spot to experience local culture and cuisine.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Still manageable crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Advise for visiting Numazu for the first time

🎟️ Affordable Admission

Reasonable ticket prices make this a great value for a unique experience. :moneybag:

🐙 Seasonal Surprises

Animal availability varies by season; you might miss certain species like the flapjack octopus. :octopus:

reddit.com

Numazu Trip

reddit.com

Planning a day trip to Numazu

🍽️ Portside Dining

Enjoy fresh seafood at the restaurants surrounding the port after your visit. :sushi:

🚗 Easy Parking

Convenient and ample parking is available near the aquarium and port. :car:

reddit.com

Planning a trip to Numazu

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Affordable Admission

Reasonable ticket prices make this a great value for a unique experience. :moneybag:

🐙 Seasonal Surprises

Animal availability varies by season; you might miss certain species like the flapjack octopus. :octopus:

🍽️ Portside Dining

Enjoy fresh seafood at the restaurants surrounding the port after your visit. :sushi:

🚗 Easy Parking

Convenient and ample parking is available near the aquarium and port. :car:

💡 Educational Insights

Learn about deep-sea animal capture and aquarium maintenance. :bulb:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Numazu Port and Deep Sea Aquarium to be a worthwhile and educational experience, particularly for its unique focus on deep-sea creatures and the preserved coelacanth. The reasonable ticket price and well-organized layout are appreciated, though some note the aquarium is on the smaller side. The adjacent port offers excellent dining opportunities, making it a great day trip destination.

"This aquarium has a reasonable ticket price and is worth a visit, especially if you haven’t been before. The space inside is quite large and well-organized, making it easy to walk around without feeling crowded. While there aren’t many rare species on display, it’s still a fun and educational experience for all ages. There are restaurants and a parking lot conveniently located nearby, making it a great spot to spend a few hours with family or friends. Overall, a pleasant visit!"

A Wang

"We went on a Monday at 12pm. Even though it was a midday in the weekday, there was still a few people inside.

Very unique selection of animals because it depends on what is caught. We went when it was off-season, so there was no flapjack octopus. In addition to the deep sea animals, there are comprehensive explanations of how they catch the animals, how they maintain the aquarium etc.

Overall a bit of a small aquarium, but definitely worth a visit especially for its price!"

Zach Tay

"A very beautiful aquarium to visit, with a good and wide variety of fish. It's also located in a cozy town surrounded by typical regional foods and culture. Parking is large and easy to find."

Claudia Murayama

What People Like

Unique deep-sea exhibits
Preserved coelacanth
Affordable ticket price

What People Dislike

Smaller aquarium size
Seasonal animal availability

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way is to take the JR Tokaido Line from Tokyo Station to Numazu Station (approx. 1.5-2 hours). From Numazu Station, you can take a local bus (e.g., Numazu Port Line) to the aquarium, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Reddit

Yes, there is a large and easily accessible parking lot near the aquarium and the port area, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Yes, it's feasible to visit as a day trip, though it will be a long day. Plan for travel time and prioritize your activities at the port and aquarium. Reddit

The port area is quite walkable. You can easily explore the aquarium, fish market, and restaurants on foot. Buses are available for longer distances within Numazu. Reddit

The closest major train station is Numazu Station. From there, you'll need to take a bus or taxi to reach the port and aquarium directly. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The aquarium is known for its reasonable ticket prices, making it an affordable option for a unique educational experience. Specific prices can be found on their official website or at the ticket counter. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required, especially for weekdays. However, during peak seasons or weekends, it might be advisable to check their policy or purchase tickets upon arrival. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Numazu Port and Deep Sea Aquarium website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

Yes, the aquarium offers an educational and engaging experience for all ages, from children to adults, with its unique deep-sea exhibits. Reddit

Information on discounts, such as for students or groups, is typically available on the aquarium's official website or can be inquired about at the ticket counter. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The aquarium specializes in deep-sea creatures, including preserved coelacanth specimens, bioluminescent fish, unique octopuses, and fascinating invertebrates like giant isopods. Reddit

It's described as a bit small but well-organized, offering a focused experience on deep-sea life rather than a vast collection. This means you can explore it thoroughly without feeling overwhelmed. Reddit

The preserved coelacanth specimens are a major draw, as this ancient fish is rarely seen. The collection of bioluminescent and unusual deep-sea invertebrates also makes it stand out. Reddit

While primarily focused on display and education, the comprehensive explanations about how animals are caught and maintained offer an insightful look into marine biology. Reddit

Visiting on a weekday morning is generally recommended to avoid the largest crowds. Weekends and midday can see a moderate number of visitors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the aquarium itself might have limited dining options, the surrounding Numazu Port is famous for its abundance of fresh seafood restaurants and eateries. Reddit

You can expect a wide variety of fresh seafood, including sushi, sashimi, grilled fish, and local specialties. It's a great place to sample regional cuisine. Reddit

Dining prices can vary, but many restaurants offer good value, especially considering the freshness of the seafood. You can find options for different budgets. Reddit

Yes, the port area often features a fish market and various stalls where you can purchase fresh seafood and local snacks. Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium. It's best to enjoy your meals at the designated dining areas or restaurants outside. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is usually allowed, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the exhibits. Always check for signage. TikTok

The bioluminescent creatures and the preserved coelacanth specimens offer unique photographic opportunities. The vibrant port atmosphere also makes for great shots. TikTok

Try to capture the eerie glow of the deep-sea creatures. Using a higher ISO or a tripod (if allowed) can help in the dimly lit sections. TikTok

Absolutely! The fresh seafood displays and beautifully prepared dishes at Numazu Port are very photogenic. TikTok

Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful lighting for photos of the port and its surroundings. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Numazu Port and Deep Sea Aquarium offers a unique and educational outing for families. While the dimly lit environment and some of the creatures might be a bit intense for very young children, the preserved coelacanths and the bioluminescent displays are often fascinating. The aquarium's manageable size means kids won't get too tired exploring it. Reddit

Combine your visit with the lively Numazu Port, where kids can enjoy the sights and sounds of a working harbor. The abundance of seafood restaurants offers plenty of kid-friendly options, and the open spaces around the port are great for a post-aquarium stretch. Look out for the unique plush toys in the gift shop, which can be a fun souvenir for children. Reddit

🍣 Foodies and Seafood Lovers

For those who appreciate fresh seafood, the Numazu Port is a must-visit destination. The aquarium itself provides a fascinating context for the marine life that inhabits the waters from which the port's bounty is drawn. After your visit, dive into the culinary scene with an array of sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish options available at the numerous restaurants surrounding the port. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the fish market for a glimpse of the day's catch and perhaps to purchase some local delicacies. The freshness and quality of the seafood here are renowned, making it a truly memorable gastronomic experience. It's the perfect place to indulge your taste buds after an educational tour of deep-sea wonders. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Numazu Port and Deep Sea Aquarium presents unique photographic challenges and rewards. The dimly lit exhibits of deep-sea creatures, especially the bioluminescent organisms, offer a chance to capture ethereal and otherworldly images. Experiment with low-light settings and avoid flash to best convey the atmosphere of the deep ocean. TikTok

Beyond the aquarium, the Numazu Port itself provides a picturesque setting. Capture the bustling activity of the fishing boats, the vibrant market scenes, and the beautifully presented seafood dishes. The port area often offers lovely views, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset, making it a versatile location for photographers. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Fascinating World of Deep-Sea Creatures

The Numazu Port and Deep Sea Aquarium is a unique destination dedicated to showcasing the mysterious inhabitants of the ocean's depths. Unlike typical aquariums that focus on colorful coral reef fish, this facility highlights species adapted to extreme pressure, darkness, and cold. Visitors can marvel at bioluminescent organisms that create their own light, offering an otherworldly spectacle. The dimly lit environment enhances the viewing experience, making these creatures appear even more alien and captivating. Reddit

One of the aquarium's most significant attractions is its collection of preserved coelacanths. These ancient fish, often referred to as 'living fossils,' have remained virtually unchanged for millions of years. Seeing these specimens provides a tangible link to prehistoric marine life. The aquarium also features a variety of deep-sea invertebrates, such as giant isopods and peculiar octopuses, which are rarely found in other public aquariums. These exhibits offer a rare glimpse into a world few people ever get to witness firsthand. Reddit

Beyond the creatures themselves, the aquarium provides comprehensive educational information about deep-sea exploration, the challenges of capturing and maintaining these delicate animals, and the unique adaptations that allow them to survive in their harsh environment. This focus on scientific understanding makes the visit both entertaining and enlightening, appealing to those curious about the unexplored frontiers of our planet. Reddit

Experiencing Numazu Port: A Culinary and Cultural Hub

The Numazu Port is more than just a gateway to the aquarium; it's a bustling hub of activity, renowned for its fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by exploring the lively fish market, where the day's catch is brought in and sold. This is the perfect place to witness the energy of a working port and perhaps even snag some unique culinary souvenirs. Reddit

The port is lined with numerous restaurants and eateries, offering an unparalleled dining experience. From traditional sushi and sashimi to grilled fish and local specialties, there's something to satisfy every palate. Many of these establishments pride themselves on serving the freshest ingredients, often sourced directly from the boats docked nearby. It's an ideal spot to enjoy a delicious and authentic Japanese seafood meal after a day of exploration. Reddit

Beyond the culinary delights, the port area offers a pleasant atmosphere for a leisurely stroll. You can observe the fishing boats, enjoy the sea breeze, and soak in the authentic regional charm. The convenience of ample parking and its proximity to the aquarium make Numazu Port a perfect complement to your visit, turning a trip to the aquarium into a well-rounded day of discovery and enjoyment. Reddit

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