Travel Tips ｜ Outdoors and Adventure
Learn about the underwater world nurtured by the Kuroshio Current (Kushimoto Marine Park)
Index
The world's northernmost coral colony is here!
The Kuroshio Current is one of the largest warm currents of the world. Thanks to this warm current, even though the region is located at a latitude of 33 degrees north, colonies of coral (creatures that live in tropical regions) grow in the beautiful ocean here. Established in 1970 as Japan’s first underwater park, the aquarium at Kushimoto Marine Park recreates the ocean of Kushimoto. Adults and children alike can enjoy learning about the diversity of Nanki’s beautiful ocean.
Let’s take a look under the sea from the underwater observatory!
From the windows of the underwater observatory you can enjoy views of the seabed up to a distance of 140 m away and 6.3 m deep. The scenery created by coral looks like a forest spread out under the sea. Let’s take a look at a world where diverse creatures swim gracefully, from brightly colored tropical fish to temperate climate fish.
Observing huge sea turtles close-up
Among the 8 species of sea turtles currently living on the Earth, 6 have been identified in Kushimoto. Of these, loggerhead sea turtles visit Kushimoto every year from early summer through fall to lay their eggs. The aquarium has a turtle pool where loggerhead sea turtles, green sea turtles, and endangered hawksbill sea turtles swim around, and you can enjoy the experience of feeding them.
Reservations are not necessary!
The Kushimoto Marine Park complex includes an aquarium, a research institute, an underwater observatory, the underwater sightseeing ship Stella Maris, a cafe, and a restaurant. You have to purchase additional tickets at reception to board the Stella Maris; however, you can visit the aquarium, the underwater observatory, the cafe or restaurant without a reservation.
| Address | 〒649-3514 1157 Arida, Kushimoto-cho, Higashimuro-gun, Wakayama, Japan |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours |
Aquariums and Sea View Tower Semi-submersible underwater sightseeing ship Stella-Maris Underwater Park Restaurant ACROPORA |
| Closed | None |
| Parking | Available（ free ） |
| Traffic Access |
By public transportation: Free shuttle bus service from the JR “Kushimoto Station”. By car: From Osaka/Wakayama, around 20 minutes’ drive from Susami Minami IC. |
| Supported Language | Explanatory signboard in English and Chinese. |
| Contact | Kushimoto Marine Park TEL：0735-62-1122 Web：https://www.kushimoto.co.jp |
* Information is subject to change. Please be sure to check with the site/facility before heading out.
