The Hakone-en Aquarium opened in 1979 and is comprised of multiple aquariums; the Seawater Pavilion, Freshwater Pavilion and the Baikal Seal Plaza. Located at 723 meters above sea level it is the highest exhibition of ocean life in Japan. Within the Hakone-en complex there is also the ‘Hakone-en Zoo Land’ containing small animals and farm animals. A trip here really is the perfect outing for animal lovers.
Contents
The seawater pavilion contains a huge tank weighing 255 tons!
When the weather is fine it is impressive to watch the fish sparkling in the sun as they swim in this oversized tank. You can also watch as a diver enters the tank to feed the fish (weekdays at 1:00pm and weekends/holidays at 10:15am and 1:45pm). It is amazing to see the fish flock to the diver as soon as she enters the tank. This tank contains a large variety of fish, large and small and of various colors, and it is quite lovely to see such a variety of different fish all eating together. In addition to fish, this area of the aquarium also houses the breeding areas of four varieties of penguins and sharks.
The freshwater pavilion houses creatures from the Amazon
The aquarium faces Lake Ashinoko, and in this area you can enjoy an exhibition of the aquatic life of the lake, as well as exhibits of Pirarucu and Red Tail Catfish from the Amazon. They also have an exhibition of the White-cheeked pintail (or summer duck), and you can watch through the glass as their little legs paddle frenetically through the water.
A rare exhibition of freshwater seals
The Baikal seals inhabit Lake Baikal in Russia and are a rare example of freshwater seals. In this aquarium you can watch from the observation deck as they swim around in their large pool. You can watch them turn, retrieve hoops and get into ‘Hot Springs’ mode in this popular show. Whichever trick they are performing, it’s a show not to be missed. They only hold their poses for a split-second, so be sure to have your camera ready to capture the moment!
Getting here
| Address | 139 Motohakone, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun 250-0522, Kanagawa |
| ☎ | 0460-83-1151 |
| Access | The aquarium direction page (Japanese) |
Access Map
Admission Tickets, Price
| Fees | General |
|---|---|
| Adult | 1,500 yen |
| Child (Ages 4 – Primary school student) | 750 yen |
Opening Hours & Calendar
| Hours | |
|---|---|
| 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Last entry 4:20 p.m. |
|
| Days closed | Open throughout the year |
Official website
FAQs
Nursing Lounge
The aquarium has a nursing room for babies.
Coin lockers
The aquarium has a coin-operated lockers.
Baby stroller rental service
Baby strollers are available free of charge.
Wheelchair rental service
Wheelchairs are available free of charge.
