Niigata City Aquarium

Niigata City Aquarium Marinepia Nihonkai is an aquarium located in the Nishi-Kaigan Park area of Chuo Ward, Niigata City. It opened in 1990 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Niigata’s city status, and after a major renewal in 2013 it now houses about 600 species and 30,000 animals. Exhibits are divided into 10 zones, offering easy-to-understand, story-driven displays. Among the most popular is the dolphin show, which aims to spread scientifically accurate knowledge; with clear explanations, you can learn about the classification and ecology of cetaceans while enjoying the performance. The “Sea of Japan Large Tank” features fish that live in the nearby Sea of Japan, such as the blacktip reef shark and Asian sheepshead wrasse, letting you feel the sea with the sound of surf. Access: about 25 minutes by car from Niigata Chuo I.C., Niigata Nishi I.C., Niigata Kameda I.C., or Niigata Higashi Smart I.C.; about 20 minutes by car from Niigata Airport; or about 20 minutes by route bus from JR Niigata Station Bandai Exit.