Miyajima Public Aquarium

In short

Miyajima Public Aquarium is located near the sea on the western side of Miyajima and is affectionately known as "Miyaji Marine." In August 2011, it opened anew as an aquarium themed around the Seto Inland Sea. Its basic concept is "healing" and "interaction."

• ​The Symbolic Finless Porpoise​​: A small member of the cetacean family that also lives in the Seto Inland Sea. In 1995, the aquarium achieved the world's first birth of a third-generation finless porpoise raised under human care
• ​Oyster Raft Tank​​: A tank recreating the oyster rafts that are a familiar sight in the waters of Hiroshima, where you can watch fish swim around the oysters
• ​Encounters with Sea Lions and Penguins​​: Live sea lion performances are held at the pool, and sea animals such as penguins can be observed up close

History and Highlights

​Miyajima Public Aquarium​ is located on the western side of Miyajima near the sea, and is affectionately known by the nickname "Miyaji Marine." Its beginnings date back to 1959, when it opened as the Hiroshima Prefectural Fisheries Resource Research Institute. In 1967, it was transferred to the former town of Miyajima and operated as a municipal aquarium. After closing at the end of 2008 for a complete reconstruction, it reopened in August 2011 as a newly redesigned aquarium themed around the Seto Inland Sea. The nickname "Miyaji Marine" was chosen at that time from submissions invited from the general public.

The basic concept is "healing" and "interaction." The exhibits are centered on marine life from the Seto Inland Sea, allowing visitors to take their time and learn about what kind of creatures live in the familiar nearby waters.

Sights and Experiences

• ​The Symbolic Finless Porpoise​​: The symbol of the aquarium is the finless porpoise, a small member of the cetacean family that also lives in the Seto Inland Sea. Finless porpoises are characterized by a round head and a gentle expression, and in 1995 the aquarium achieved the world's first birth of a third-generation finless porpoise raised under human care.
• ​Oyster Raft Tank​​: A dedicated tank recreates the oyster rafts that are a familiar sight in the waters of Hiroshima. Seeing fish swim around the oysters offers a view just like looking directly into the sea.
• ​Encounters with Sea Lions and Penguins​​: Live sea lion performances are held at the pool, and sea animals such as penguins can be observed up close. Visitors can enjoy a unique experience that reflects the aquarium's long-standing dedication to interaction with living creatures.

Tips for Exploring

To reach the aquarium, head west from the exit of Itsukushima Shrine, pass in front of ​Daigan-ji Temple​​, and walk for about 5 to 10 minutes. If you cross the small bridge over the Mitarai River past Daigan-ji Temple, Kiyomori-jinja Shrine sits along the seashore, making it an easy side stop along the way. Alternatively, you can stop by the ​Miyajima History and Folklore Museum​ from the exit, and then follow the coastal path toward the aquarium. Walking from Miyajima Pier takes about 25 minutes, so it is convenient to combine your visit with a trip to Itsukushima Shrine. Because performance schedules and events vary by day, it is recommended to check the schedule displayed inside the facility upon entering.