Notojima Aquarium

Notojima Aquarium, located on Notojima Island in Nanao City, Ishikawa Prefecture, is an interactive aquarium where visitors can experience marine life up close in a setting surrounded by rich natural scenery. Centered on fish and shellfish species found in the waters near the Noto Peninsula, the aquarium houses and exhibits a wide variety of sea creatures, and is enjoyed by visitors of all ages.

The facility is made up of multiple themed zones, and one of its major attractions is the abundance of shows, hands-on programs, and experiential events in addition to the exhibits.

Noto Sea Aquarium Corridor (Main Building)
The “Noto Sea Aquarium Corridor” in the main building is one of the signature exhibition areas of Notojima Aquarium.
With projection mapping displayed continuously, underwater scenes are projected onto the floors and walls, allowing visitors to feel as though they are walking through the ocean.
Observation domes built into the tanks also let visitors see schools of fish up close, making this a space that can be enjoyed both visually and experientially. The touch pool, where visitors can directly touch and observe marine creatures, is another highlight, blending learning with hands-on experience.

Whale Shark Pavilion “Blue World”
The “Whale Shark Pavilion: Blue World” features a massive tank holding 1,600 tons of water, making it one of the largest on the Sea of Japan side.
Under normal circumstances, visitors can observe whale sharks and large fish from warm waters swimming gracefully through the tank, but as of now (*at the time of writing*), whale sharks are not on display.
Even during periods when whale sharks are absent, the sight of large fish and rays moving through the vast tank is impressive, and combined with the mystical lighting effects, it offers a soothing and tranquil experience.

Dolphins’ Paradise
“Dolphins’ Paradise” is an exhibition area featuring one of Japan’s largest tunnel tanks, measuring about 22 meters in length.
As you walk through the tunnel, natural light streams in, creating the sensation of walking beneath the sea.
At present, dolphins are being transferred to another aquarium, so the exhibits are currently centered on fish, but display resumption is planned. It is recommended to check the official information in advance for the latest exhibit status.

Marine Nature Ecology Hall
At the “Marine Nature Ecology Hall,” popular marine mammals such as seals and Asian small-clawed otters are the main attractions.
Because they can be observed through glass, visitors can take their time enjoying the animals’ natural movements and expressions.

Sea Lion Pool
At the “Sea Lion Pool,” scheduled to open to the public on March 22, Reiwa 7, visitors will be able to observe sea lions up close through glass and see their everyday behavior, which previously could only be viewed during shows.
One of the charms of this area is the chance to see their relaxed姿 rather than the training-performance mode.

The Appeal of Shows and Events
One of Notojima Aquarium’s biggest draws is its powerful shows and events. Among them, the dolphin show is especially popular, captivating many visitors with the dolphins’ spectacular jumps, dances, and performances using props.
In addition, visitors can enjoy enchanting shows that combine sound and light, such as:
- “Fantasy of Sound and Light with Red Sea Bream,” where schools of red sea bream swim to the sound of piano music
- “Ishiwashi Big Wave,” where schools of sardines move like a giant wave while reflecting light

Please note that shows and events may be suspended or resumed depending on circumstances, so it is a good idea to check the schedule before your visit.

Hands-on Programs
The hands-on programs that let visitors feel closer to the animals are another major attraction of Notojima Aquarium.
- In the “Penguin Walk Time,” you can watch the adorable waddling penguins up close.
- In the “Seal Feeding Time,” you can enjoy the seals’ poses and their interactions with the keepers at close range.

These programs are popular not only with children but with adults as well.

Sea Fishing Center and Surrounding Facilities
At the Sea Fishing Center adjacent to the aquarium, visitors can enjoy sea fishing while taking in views of Nanao North Bay.
Being able to try actual fishing in the sea after viewing the exhibits is a distinctive charm unique to Notojima Aquarium.
There are also shops and dining facilities inside and around the aquarium. The shop “BLUE OCEAN” sells original goods and plush toys featuring motifs such as whale sharks, dolphins, seals, and penguins.

Notojima Aquarium is an aquarium where visitors can see, learn about, and experience marine life in an environment surrounded by the nature of Notojima Island.
With highlights such as the projection-mapped “Noto Sea Aquarium Corridor,” the “Whale Shark Pavilion: Blue World” featuring one of the largest tanks on the Sea of Japan side, and exciting shows and hands-on programs, there is no shortage of things to see and do.
Including the adjacent Sea Fishing Center, it is an interactive facility that can be enjoyed all day long, delighting both adults and children alike. When visiting, we recommend checking the current status of exhibits and shows in advance so you can fully enjoy the charm of the Noto Sea.