Japan Salamander Center

The Japan Salamander Center, located at the entrance to the scenic Akame 48 Waterfalls in Nabari City, Mie Prefecture, is Japan’s only amphibian-specialty aquarium. It exhibits about 50 individuals across 9 amphibian species from Japan and around the world, including the Japanese giant salamander, a Special Natural Monument of Japan. The facility was established because Japanese giant salamanders inhabit the Akame area. Often called a "living fossil," the Japanese giant salamander is a rare animal said to have survived for more than 30 million years with an appearance that has changed very little, and here you can observe its distinctive look and behavior in detail. Admission is included in the Akame 48 Waterfalls mountain entry fee, so you can also enjoy walking the gorge and forest bathing in a valley selected for honors such as the Heisei-era "100 Exquisite Waters of Japan," "100 Best Waterfalls of Japan," "100 Best Forest-Bathing Forests," and "100 Best Walking Trails." Across the seasons you can enjoy ever-changing scenery with the waterfalls, from weeping cherry blossoms in spring and fresh greenery in summer to autumn leaves in fall and frozen waterfalls in winter. From the nearest station, Kintetsu Osaka Line "Akameguchi Station," ride the bus for 10 minutes to the last stop, "Akame Taki," and you’ll feel like you’ve arrived at a hidden, secluded destination.