Toba Aquarium, on the pearl-fishing coast of Toba, is one of Japan’s largest and most beloved aquariums, home to around 1,200 species — one of the highest counts in the country — displayed across twelve themed zones with no fixed route, so visitors wander freely. Its greatest celebrity is Serena, the only dugong on public display anywhere in Japan, joined by playful sea otters, capybaras, rare finless porpoises and a giant spider-crab tank. Hands-on touch pools, feeding times and performances make it a firm family favourite and a natural pairing with the pearl and diving attractions of the Toba–Shima coast.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Toba, Mie |
| Hours | ~9:00–17:00 (later in peak seasons) |
| Admission | ~¥2,800 |
| Time needed | 2–3 hours |
| Best time | Year-round; a top rainy-day choice |
What to See
- Serena the dugong, the only one on display in Japan.
- Sea otters, capybaras and rare finless porpoises.
- A free-roam layout of twelve themed zones, ~1,200 species.
- Touch pools, feedings and performances for families.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Mikimoto Pearl Island in Toba.
- Pair with Meoto Iwa along the coast.
- Read our Mie overview .
Getting There
- By train: JR/Kintetsu to Toba Station, a few minutes' walk to the aquarium.
- By car: parking on site; busy on weekends and holidays.
Tips
Go to see the dugong first thing, then let the free-roam layout carry you — there’s no set route, which suits families letting kids lead. Check the day’s feeding and performance schedule at the entrance to time the highlights, and pair it with Mikimoto Pearl Island a short walk away for a full Toba day, or save it as the region’s best rainy-day option.
