Aquariums Are Air-Conditioned.

It's August on the Kanto Plain, our not-so-favorite time of the Japanese calendar that gives Little TF a permanent heat rash until the beginning of October.  It's too hot to play at our neighborhood park, too hot to take her out to run errands after preschool, and almost too hot to go wading in the nearby nature preserve's little stream.  

There is no need to collect more heat rashes!  We're in Japan!  Whether you're at the beach or in the heart of Tokyo, there's probably an aquarium nearby.  Air conditioning and the country's geographical location combine to make Japan's aquariums not only the best in the world, but also perfect locations to beat the heat! 

 We took a trip to the Prince Hotel's Epson Aqua Stadium, in Shinagawa, Tokyo.  Yes, this world-class aquarium is located in a hotel.  It's on the small side, but impressive nonetheless!

Creepy, worm-like things.  They kept popping up out of the sand and waving around like seaweed.  Little TF thought they were horrifying.

One of Epson Aqua Stadium's main attractions is the Submarine Tunnel.  We stood in amazement as fish wiggled over our heads.  The aquarium also claims to own the world's only captive, dwarf sawtooth shark, which draped itself on top of the Tunnel's curve.  Little TF got a good laugh out of that one.

The Stadium's space restrictions mean fewer tanks of sea creatures. But you (and any kids) won't be disappointed. Interactive programs and animal shows make the Epson Aqua Stadium a must-see attraction!  Dolphins and sea lions have their own performance arenas!

The sea lion show was full by the time we got to it, so we quickly hurried to the dolphin pool to claim our seats.  We stocked up on ice cream and melon soda and watched the trainers prep the dolphins for their show.

When we arrived at the dolphin pool, we saw kids lining up to actually pet them.  Unfortunately, dolphin-petting tickets were already sold out.  Sad.

Movable targets hang from the ceiling, waiting to play games with the dolphins!

The dolphin show was pretty amazing.  We usually go to Enoshima's aquarium to see their dolphin show, and Epson Aqua Stadium's show was much better.  Once Little TF saw the trainers riding the dolphins, she declared, "I want to be a dolphin trainer when I grow up!" Line up behind every other little girl in the world, kid.

If you make it to the dolphin show, pay attention to the color of your seat!  Light blue seats indicate that you will get splashed.  There is a whale with a trick specifically meant to soak the participants.  Still want to get an up close and personal seat? Don't worry!  The Stadium sells ponchos!

This girl is ready to get soaked!

Done with the aquarium?  The Prince Hotel also offers "Attractions Square!"  Head over to ride the dolphin carousel and pirate ship, or sit back and enjoy the Visual Ride Theater (height restrictions and extra charges apply).


Epson Aqua Stadium Admission Fees:
Adults: 1800 yen
Children 7-15: 1000 yen
Children 4-6: 600 yen

Access:  Take the JR Tokaido Line to Shinagawa Station.  The aquarium is located inside the Prince Hotel.   4-10-30 Takanawa, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Interactive activities include dolphin and sea lion feeding, touching, and experiencing life as a dolphin trainer.  Unfortunately, the website has a notice that says these activities are for Japanese speakers, only.  Bring a Japanese speaker, or try to do it, anyways.  Individually priced tickets for these activities are available at the second floor information desk.  

Visit the Prince Hotel's Epson Aqua Stadium website for more information.  

Disclaimer:  I do my best to make sure all my information is accurate.  However, details may change or I may just be flat-out wrong.  Please let me know if something needs a correction.  Thank-you!