Kochi Prefectural Ashizuri Aquarium

The newly renovated Ashizuri Aquarium opened to the public in July 2020 and it is an adventure museum that tells the story of Cape Ashizuri. Located in the Tosashimizu in western Kochi, this area was named Japan’s first Marine Park in 1970 and is now recognised as a National Park.
Visiting the aquarium starts with an exploration of primeval forests in the mountains meandering down to the Tatsukushi Coast coral reefs flourishing with marine life. Beyond the coral reefs is the warm Kuroshio Current that first meets Japan here bringing an array of marine life close the shore, ending with a dive into the mysteries of the deep.
Housing around 15,000 marine animals of 350 species, the aquarium serves as a local research and preservation center. Interactive experiences like projection mapping, a touching pool, and an “underwater” exhibit where marine life is swimming overhead demonstrate the fascinating habitat of Ashizuri. The sea slug section is not to be overlooked; 20 of the 384 identified sea slugs live inside the aquarium. Little is known about these colorful creatures, but researchers at Ashizuri Aquarium are working to learn more.