Shimanto Dragonfly Park & Shimanto River Gakuyuu Hall Akitsuio

Inside the world’s first dragonfly sanctuary flourishes 77 different species of dragonflies, and relative to the area of the park, Shimanto Dragonfly Park houses the most number of dragonfly species in Japan today.
Within the premises is Shimanto River Gakuyuu Hall Akitsuio made up of the Dragonfly Hall and the Fish Hall. The name Akitsuio is derived from akitsu (dragonfly) and io (fish) in ancient Japanese. Displayed here is the world’s largest permanent collection of 1000 species of dragonflies from around the globe and 300 species of freshwater and brackish water fish most of them native to the Shimanto River
The clear waters of Shimanto River is said to be a treasure trove of unique creatures, where 180 species of fish and 90 different kinds of dragonflies can be found. Through fish feeding, dragonfly catching, and other onsite activities Akitsuio is designed not only as a celebration of the Shimanto River but as a place with deep respect and connection to the surrounding nature, culture and history. It is a collaborative space for visitors to enjoy, learn, and relax with the miracles of the Satoyama area.