The Hotaruika Museum is a rare place to learn about the firefly squid, a famous inhabitant of Toyama Prefecture. It has recently become popular with overseas visitors, too. The building is constructed to be accessible with few steps, making it convenient to visit with children.
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This is the only place to see a squid firefly light show
The biggest attraction at this aquarium is the firefly squid light show which allows you to view the lights of firefly squid that have just been caught in Toyama Bay. The firefly squid emit light when they are stimulated, with one well-known example being when they are caught in a fishing net. This show allows you to see this effect up close.
This event is only held during spring, as this is firefly squid season. In other seasons they have a video to show the effect. The beautiful firefly squid illumination is sure to impress both adults and children. If you are lucky you might even get to hold one of the catching nets during the show. On some days it is also possible touch the firefly squid. Try it if you have the chance!
They also introduce some literature on the firefly squid
The firefly squid live in the deep ocean but come into the waters of Toyama Bay to spawn. For that reason, they have a deep connection with the fishing industry and culinary history of the area. There is an exhibition here that focuses on this connection. In addition to information on how to fish for firefly squid, their ecology and behavior, this museum also delves into the literature that has been written about them. It is the kind of information you cannot find anywhere but this museum!
Get your fill of firefly squid in the restaurant, too!
There is a restaurant close by the aquarium that serves firefly squid caught locally. The Panorama Restaurant looks out over Toyama Bay, and the focus here is on ‘Kitokito’ seafood dishes (Toyama dialect for ‘lively and fresh’). For those looking for something quick, there is also a café stand serving popular firefly squid burgers and fried firefly squid.
Getting here
| Address | 410, Nakagawara, Namerikawa-city, Toyama, 936-0021, Japan |
| ☎ | 076-476-9300 |
| Access | The aquarium direction page (English) |
Access Map
Admission Tickets, Price
| Fees | The middle of March to the end of May | June to the middle of March |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (over high school student) | 800 yen | 600 yen |
| Child (Ages 3 – junior high school students) | 400 yen | 300 yen |
Note: Admission fees are higher during the period when live firefly squid can be seen (Generally during the middle of March to the end of May).
Opening Hours & Calendar
| Hours | |
|---|---|
| 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Last entry 4:30 p.m. | |
| Days closed | Tuesday between June 1 and March 19. If a Tuesday during the period is a national holiday, then the next day. New year holidays Three consecutive days from 4th Monday in January. |
Official website
FAQs
Nursing Lounge
Not available.
Coin lockers
Coin-operated lockers are available in the aquarium.
Baby stroller rental service
Not available. The aquarium is stroller friendly.
Wheelchair rental service
Wheelchairs are available free of charge.
