The towns of Shiretoko, Shibetsu (Hokkaido) is home to the Shibetsu Salmon Science Centre. Born as a research center and the number one salmon-related species exhibit, the facility is famous for its specialized interest in the species.
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The life of salmon through the view of an observation tank
One of the highlights of this aquarium is the view of pink salmon, masu salmon, and chum salmon swimming upstream in September to October returning to lay eggs where they were once born. In November, lucky visitors will even have the chance to see the salmon laying eggs! In the fall, universities that research salmon come by and assist with artificial fertilization of the eggs as well.
Feed the Japanese Huchen!
In a small gacha container, anyone can try feeding the Japanese huchen that freely swim around. They will get excited just from people coming toward the tanks! It may look overwhelming, but is a featured experience to take part in!
Get nipped by a sturgeon fish!
Another species that can be found at this aquarium is the sturgeon fish! Here, visitors can experience getting their finger “bit” by a sturgeon fish! Sturgeon fish, despite their deceiving looks, have no teeth and their bite is not painful at all! If you’re curious as to what it feel like, come experience the “Sturgeon Fish Finger Bite” program!
Enjoy a good dish of Shibetsu Salmon
Located right next to the Shibetsu Salmon House is the Salmon-Tei, a restaurant to enjoy some of the most flavorful delicacies that the salmon have to offer such as the roe and meat of salmon in a set bento or a rice bowl. The center does not have a café, so getting a meal here is recommended! There are also souvenirs and salmon related food products here, great for a quick shopping run!
Getting here
| Address | 6 Chome-1-1-1 Kita 1 Jonishi, Shibetsu-cho, Shibetsu-gun, Hokkaido 086-1631 |
| ☎ | 0153-82-1141 |
| Access | The aquarium direction page (English) |
Access Map
Admission Tickets, Price
| Fees | General | One-year pass |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | 610 yen | 2,000 yen |
| Senior (Ages 70+) | 500 yen | 1,500 yen |
| High shool student | 400 yen | 1,000 yen |
| Primary & middle school student | 200 yen | 500 yen |
Opening Hours & Calendar
| Hours | |
|---|---|
| Feb 1 – Nov 30 Open every day from May to October | 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Last entry 4:30 p.m. |
| Days closed | Wednesday (if a Wednesday is a national holiday, then the next day) The aquarium is closed from December to January |
Note: Schedule may vary. Please check the opening hours on the official website.
Official website
FAQs
Nursing Lounge
Not available.
Baby stroller rental service
Baby strollers are available free of charge.
Wheelchair rental service
Wheelchairs are available free of charge.
