The World's First Deep Sea Aquarium
Numazu Deep Sea Aquarium, near Numazu Port, was the world's first aquarium to specialize in deep-sea exhibits. A colletion of prehistoric coelacanths is among its prized, rare species. Ease of access from Tokyo and excellent English language information make the aquarium popular with tourists. Even on crowded days it takes about an hour to see all the exhibits.
Exhibitions from The Abyss
The Numazu Deep Sea Aquarium celebrates the mysterious world of the deep sea. Inside, the Suruga Bay exhibit showcases the marine life inhabiting the depths of nearby Suruga Bay. Head to The Deep Sea Planetarium to see 150 bioluminescent lanterneye fish (Anomalopidae) glowing in the dark.
Prehistoric Coelacanth
Wrap up your visit with the coelacanth exhibit on the second floor. Coelacanths are a prehistoric fish that were discovered last century, 66 million years after they were thought to have become extinct. The display features frozen and taxidermied specimens.
How to get there
From Tokyo, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima Station. Transfer to the JR Tokaido Line to Numazueki Station. From the south exit, take the bus to Numazuko, the Numazu Port stop. The aquarium is a 10-minute taxi ride from the bus stop.