Japan's Aquariums Redefine Underwater Exploration

The nine different zones of the aquarium showcase different environments which house their respective ecosystem of marine life. Some of these include the Sea of Japan Zone, which fittingly showcases marine life from the Sea of Japan, including crabs, fish, and jellyfish, and the Amazon Zone, which shows life from the Amazon River Basin, including piranhas, caimans, and turtles. However, the zone that captures the hearts of many is the Rivers of Kyoto Zone because this houses the aforementioned giant salamander (andrias japonicus). 

Endemic to Japan and China (hence the names Japanese giant salamander and Chinese giant salamander), these rare giants are the largest amphibians in the world, reaching lengths of up to 1.5 meters (5 feet). Within the aquarium's carefully designed habitat, visitors can observe these giants up close, gaining insights into their unique characteristics and behaviors. The mottled skin and distinctive facial features of giant salamanders make them truly remarkable to behold; they are elusive by nature and tend to hide in underwater burrows or under rocks during the day, making them challenging to spot in the wild. It is a truly rare opportunity to be able to observe them within the aquarium.

The Kyoto Aquarium plays a vital role in the conservation and preservation of giant salamanders by providing a suitable environment that mimics their natural habitat and ensuring proper care and nutrition. The aquarium also contributes to the well-being and reproduction of these extraordinary amphibians. Through educational programs and interactive displays, visitors not only gain a deeper appreciation for the giant salamander's importance in Japan's aquatic ecosystems but also become aware of the need to protect and conserve these incredible creatures and their habitats. The giant salamander exhibit at the Kyoto Aquarium serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of preserving biodiversity and underscores the importance of responsible environmental stewardship for future generations.

The Tokyo Sea Life Aquarium features a variety of marine exhibits, allowing visitors to explore the different coastal habitats surrounding Japan. From the coastal environments of the Izu Islands to the coral reefs of Ogasawara, the aquarium highlights the rich diversity of marine life in the region. Notably, the giant kelp tank presents an awe-inspiring display of these towering underwater plants, creating a captivating atmosphere for visitors.

At the Tokyo Sea Life Aquarium, one of the most impressive attractions is the gigantic donut-shaped tuna tank, which can hold a whopping 2,200 metric tons of water. This tank is specifically designed to mimic the natural swimming patterns of bluefin and yellowfin tunas, providing them with a space to roam freely and comfortably. The unique cylindrical shape of the tank offers visitors a 360-degree view, giving the sensation of being surrounded by these majestic oceanic fish as they gracefully swim around. This is the world's first aquarium to successfully showcase tunas swimming and reproducing freely together within such an environment.