Aquamarine Fukushima

Aquamarine Fukushima, adjacent to Onahama Port in Iwaki, Fukushima, is one of the largest aquariums in the Tohoku region, opened in 2000. It was severely damaged by a tsunami of about 4.2 meters during the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, but reopened just four months later in July 2011 and has since been embraced as a symbol of recovery. Billing itself as an environmental aquarium, it emphasizes hands-on exhibits that show the connection between living creatures and their habitats, and is especially popular with families.

Highlights

• Tidal Convergence Sea: A large triangular tunnel tank recreating the meeting of the Oyashio and Kuroshio currents off Fukushima, with schools of sardines, bonito, and Pacific saury. It is known for achieving the worlds first captive breeding and display of Pacific saury
• Wakuwaku Satoyama and Jomon Village: Outdoor recreations of Fukushimas countryside and river ecosystems, home to Eurasian otters
• Janome Beach: A hands-on zone where visitors can wade in barefoot and touch marine creatures, a big hit with children
• Goldfish Hall and Northern Sea Mammals: A varied goldfish display plus spotted seals and Steller sea lions

Onahama Port Area

The adjacent Iwaki La La Mew market offers fresh local seafood for shopping and dining, including meikari (bigeye), bonito, and Pacific saury. It is a convenient spot for souvenirs and is often combined with the aquarium visit. Nearby, the Iwaki Marine Tower provides sweeping views of the Pacific.

Season by Season

Because it is largely an indoor facility, it can be enjoyed year-round regardless of weather. The summer holidays are very busy, so weekday mornings are best for a relaxed visit. The outdoor satoyama zone is especially pleasant amid fresh green in early summer and foliage in autumn.

Getting There

From Izumi Station on the JR Joban Line, take a Shin-Joban Kotsu bus toward Onahama (about 15 minutes). By car, exit at Iwaki-Yumoto IC on the Joban Expressway (about 20 minutes). Opening hours vary by season, so check the official website. Admission is 1,800 yen for adults and 900 yen for elementary through high school students, with group discounts. Parking is available around Onahama Port.

Practical Travel Notes

A relaxed visit takes two to three hours. A dry towel is handy for the touch pools at Janome Beach. To avoid crowds, aim for the hour right after opening. A popular plan is lunch on fresh local seafood at La La Mew followed by the aquarium. Budget a few thousand yen for admission plus meals and souvenirs. Other Iwaki sights, such as the Shioyasaki Lighthouse and Iwaki-Yumoto Onsen, lie nearby for a full day out.

One Piece of Advice

This is an ideal aquarium for family trips. Pairing it with a seafood lunch at La La Mew captures the full appeal of Iwakis coast. As a symbol of recovery after the disaster, it also offers a chance to reflect on the regions resilience while you explore.

📚 Sources

Information on Aquamarine Fukushima can be confirmed through the aquarium's official website, and Iwaki City tourism information is also helpful for the adjacent Iwaki Lala Mew and the Onahama port area. Hours, admission, and group discounts may change, so please confirm with official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: About two to three hours to tour the aquarium at leisure. Add a meal at Lala Mew and nearby sights for a full day.
• What to bring: For touching creatures at Janome Beach, a dry towel helps. It is mostly indoors and enjoyable in any weather, but dress for the season at the outdoor satoyama zone. Budget a few thousand yen with admission, a meal, and souvenirs.
• Suggested route: Take in the Tide-Meeting Sea, Janome Beach, and the satoyama zone, then savor seafood at the adjacent Iwaki Lala Mew. Combined with the Shioyazaki Lighthouse and Iwaki Yumoto Onsen, you can enjoy Iwaki for a full day.