Marine Science Museum, Fukushima Prefecture

Aquamarine Fukushima (officially, the Fukushima Marine Science Museum) is an aquarium that functions both as a tourist facility and an educational institution. It is located on Onahama Port’s No. 2 wharf facing the Pacific Ocean. The nickname "Aquamarine" comes from the idea of the aquamarine gemstone as a guardian stone for safe voyages, and also from how the reinforced-glass dome roof sparkles in sunlight like the gem. Access is convenient not only by train/bus but also by car, with parking for about 1,500 vehicles. Inside, you can interact with familiar waterside nature and creatures—like medaka, loaches, and frogs—in a biotope recreating satoyama waterways, and you can also go barefoot in one of the world’s largest touch pools to touch seaside animals such as starfish and sea cucumbers (both hands-on water experiences are available from Golden Week through the end of November). In addition, a variety of events and workshops—such as backstage-style tours—are held daily for everyone from children to adults.