Sumida Aquarium Tokyo
A stylish, modern aquarium in Tokyo Skytree Town, famed for its breathtaking Takashi Amano aquascapes and charming penguin colony.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Sumida Aquarium Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stylish, modern aquarium in Tokyo Skytree Town, famed for its breathtaking Takashi Amano aquascapes and charming penguin colony.
"The Sumida Aquarium is a must-visit for its stunning, meticulously crafted underwater gardens and engaging exhibits."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and skip lines by purchasing tickets in advance online. :admission_tickets:
🚶♀️ Explore ADA Tanks
Don't miss the breathtaking freshwater tanks designed by Takashi Amano; they're a highlight for many visitors. :tropical_fish:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Takashi Amano's ADA Tanks
Main Exhibition Area
Immerse yourself in stunning, meticulously maintained freshwater aquascapes designed by the legendary Takashi Amano.

Penguin Relationship Chart
Penguin Exhibit
Discover the surprisingly complex and hilarious social lives of the aquarium's penguins through an engaging chart.

Napoleon Fish
Large Tank
Marvel at the impressive size and unique appearance of the majestic Napoleon fish in one of the aquarium's grand displays.
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Consider Your Visit Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and skip lines by purchasing tickets in advance online.
:admission_tickets:🚶♀️ Explore ADA Tanks
Don't miss the breathtaking freshwater tanks designed by Takashi Amano; they're a highlight for many visitors.
:tropical_fish:🐧 Penguin Fun
Check out the entertaining penguin exhibit and their famously funny relationship chart!
:penguin:📸 Capture the Scenery
The aquarium offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially the vibrant plant scapes.
:camerawithflash:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and skip lines by purchasing tickets in advance online.
:admission_tickets:🚶♀️ Explore ADA Tanks
Don't miss the breathtaking freshwater tanks designed by Takashi Amano; they're a highlight for many visitors.
:tropical_fish:🐧 Penguin Fun
Check out the entertaining penguin exhibit and their famously funny relationship chart!
:penguin:📸 Capture the Scenery
The aquarium offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially the vibrant plant scapes.
:camerawithflash:📍 Near Tokyo Skytree
Conveniently located near Tokyo Skytree, combine your visit for a full day of sightseeing.
:tokyo_tower:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sumida Aquarium for its stunning, well-maintained exhibits, particularly the world-class aquascapes designed by Takashi Amano and the engaging penguin displays. The aquarium is noted for its clean environment and commitment to animal welfare, offering a tranquil and visually impressive experience. Some find the ticket price a bit high for the size, but the unique exhibits generally justify the cost.
"It is my first time going in an Aquarium so I was hyped. We were already here at 9 am. The staff were very friendly. It was easy to use the ticket if you bought it on Klook. The staff will guide you on how to do it. The place is very pretty. It wasn't crowded because we were early. I really love the jellyfish 🪼. All of other animals like the seal and penguin, it was my first time seeing it in person. I love the vibes of the place. The place is not that large so you will be able to tour the place for about an hour or two hours. Overall, we enjoyed the place."
mhi_chanphjp
"I visited this aquarium over the weekend with my girlfriend during our trip to Japan. While we truly enjoyed seeing the adorable little penguins and the vibrant goldfish, the overall experience fell short of expectations.
The facility itself is quite compact, and the number of exhibits feels limited, especially when considering the relatively high ticket price. In terms of value, it may not offer as much as other aquariums of similar cost.
That said, there are a few highlights. The beautifully displayed jellyfish create a calming and visually stunning atmosphere. Additionally, the location is extremely convenient—perfect for those already planning a visit to Tokyo Skytree.
A pleasant stop if you’re in the area, but perhaps not a destination worth prioritizing on its own."
Numfon Keawrakmuk
"If you are at the Skytree location I would recommend to also visit the Sumida Aquarium too. Was a very nice experience.
I have seen sea-animals which i havent seen in that way.
Especially the jelly fishes where amazing.
The price for a single person to enter was 2500 Yen. I stayed in line 20 - 30 minutes.
I went there in July on a really hot day (35 °C)."
Patrick 94
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sumida Aquarium is conveniently located within the Tokyo Skytree Town. You can reach it via the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line or Tobu Skytree Line to Oshiage Station (SKYTREE). It's also accessible from the Keisei Oshiage Line.
Yes, it's very accessible. Oshiage Station (SKYTREE) is directly connected to Tokyo Skytree Town, making it a breeze to get to via multiple train lines.
While it's a central location, walking from major distant attractions might be time-consuming. It's best reached by train, especially if you're coming from areas like Ginza or Shibuya.
Yes, Tokyo Skytree Town offers extensive parking facilities. However, using public transport is generally recommended due to potential traffic and parking fees.
The Tobu Skytree Line and Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line to Oshiage Station (SKYTREE) are the most direct options for reaching the aquarium.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but generally, adult admission is around ¥2,300. It's always best to check the official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
It is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to avoid long queues and guarantee entry.
You can purchase tickets online through the official Sumida Aquarium website or at ticket counters within Tokyo Skytree Town. Online booking is often preferred.
Opening hours typically range from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, but can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official website for the exact hours on your planned visit date.
Sumida Aquarium occasionally hosts special exhibitions and events. Keep an eye on their official website for announcements regarding these unique experiences.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the stunning freshwater tanks designed by Takashi Amano, the lively penguin exhibit with its relationship chart, and the impressive Napoleon fish.
Yes, the aquarium offers many visually appealing exhibits, especially the plant-filled tanks and the colorful marine life, making it great for photography.
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the aquarium, but you could easily spend longer if you linger at the exhibits or enjoy the cafe.
Absolutely! The engaging exhibits, especially the penguins and colorful fish, are captivating for children of all ages.
While primarily focused on observation, the penguin exhibit's relationship chart offers an interactive element of discovery. The overall design encourages engagement with the displays.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Sumida Aquarium has a cafe where you can enjoy refreshments while taking in the views. It's a nice spot to relax during your visit.
The cafe typically offers light snacks, beverages, and desserts. It's a good place for a quick break rather than a full meal.
Being part of Tokyo Skytree Town, there are numerous dining options available within the complex, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium to maintain the environment and for hygiene reasons. It's best to consume your own food in designated areas outside the aquarium.
Prices at the cafe are generally in line with typical attraction cafes in Tokyo, offering reasonable options for a convenient break.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but flash photography is usually prohibited to avoid disturbing the marine life. Always check for specific signage.
The Takashi Amano tanks, the vibrant coral reefs, and the penguin exhibit are particularly photogenic. The overall modern design also lends itself to great shots.
While tripods and selfie sticks might be restricted during busy periods, standard camera and phone photography is usually permitted. Be mindful of other visitors.
Video recording is typically allowed, but again, without flash. Be considerate of others and avoid prolonged filming that might obstruct views.
Visitors often capture close-ups of fish, wide shots of the elaborate plant scapes, and candid moments of the penguins.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tickets online in advance to save time, and plan your visit during off-peak hours on weekdays for a more relaxed experience. The proximity to Tokyo Skytree also allows for combining the aquarium visit with other family-friendly attractions in the area.
🌿 Plant & Aquascaping Enthusiasts
Take your time to observe the details, the plant species, and the overall balance of these living artworks. Discussions on Reddit often delve into identifying specific plants and techniques used, so you might find fellow enthusiasts to share insights with.
📸 Photography Buffs
Focus on capturing the unique textures of coral, the dynamic movement of fish schools, and the serene beauty of the plant tanks. The penguin exhibit also offers chances for capturing charming candid moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Takashi Amano's Aquascapes
The ADA (Aqua Design Amano) tanks at Sumida Aquarium are a testament to Amano's philosophy of creating naturalistic aquatic environments. Visitors often express awe at the vibrant colors, intricate layouts, and the sheer health of the aquatic plants and inhabitants. The tranquil music played in these sections further enhances the serene atmosphere, making it a meditative experience for many.
These tanks require dedicated maintenance, often by specialized teams, to preserve their beauty and ecological balance. The presence of numerous Amano shrimp, known for their algae-eating capabilities, is also a common sight, contributing to the pristine condition of the scapes.
Navigating the Penguin Colony
This interactive element has become a talking point among visitors, with many finding it surprisingly detailed and amusing. It transforms a typical animal viewing into a more engaging and memorable experience, encouraging guests to observe the penguins with a keener eye for their social interactions.
Beyond the chart, the exhibit is designed to mimic the penguins' natural habitat, providing a stimulating environment for the birds and an immersive experience for guests. It's a perfect spot for families and anyone who enjoys observing animal behavior.
Sumida Aquarium's Commitment to Animal Welfare
The aquarium's focus on creating naturalistic environments, particularly in the Takashi Amano-designed tanks, contributes to a higher standard of care. This approach not only benefits the animals but also enhances the visitor experience by showcasing thriving ecosystems.
While specific details on welfare protocols are best obtained from the aquarium directly, the positive sentiment from visitors suggests a dedication to providing a good environment for its inhabitants. This is a crucial factor for many travelers seeking ethical tourism experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit