Historic Marinepia Matsushima Aquarium [Closed]

A picture journey of Japan's second oldest aquarium

Justin Velgus Jan 20, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>The penguin area is located in the main plaza. There are several species in the two adjacent enclosures. The penguins are very energetic, occasionally making noises and swimming around happily.</p>

<p>The entrance to Marinepia is down a side street across from a local shrine. Despite its aging facilities, the aquarium is amazing and still regularly draws crowds. </p>

<p>Some AKB48 members (a popular all girls singing group) can be found around Matsushima on flyers and posters to boost tourism. But wait! One of these girls is different than the others.</p>

<p>The sea lion show is very popular. Its laughs and applause can be heard throughout the plaza.</p>

<p>The sea lion show has its expected gags, but the performance is actually really good!! Watch the animal stars catch rings, fly through the sky, slide around stage, march in formation, and play basketball and volleyball!!</p>

<p>The piranhas welcome you with their hungry eyes.</p>

<p>Massive fish fill the tanks of the Creatures from the Amazon area. </p>

<p>Green foliage above and inside the water where dozens of tiny fish call home.</p>

<p>The crocodiles were a favorite of many Japanese children.</p>

<p>Sea squirts rest behind thick glass. As they floated quietly, I pondered whether they longed for the ocean or enjoyed their easy life. </p>

<p>The Matsushima Bay exhibit features animal and plant life native to the bay right outside the aquarium walls.</p>

<p>One of the largest tanks in the aquarium hosts various fish living together.</p>

<p>A group of three colored dolphins is actually a family. If they are in a happy mood, they often play with the visitors, chasing their hands in glee. </p>

<p>The king of grabs poses for a picture. His unfortunate opponent in the background struggles to regain his composure. </p>

<p>This hallway has information and pictures of the March 2011 tsunami aftermath and cleanup.</p>

<p>A picture of the devastated main plaza where the tsunami struck.</p>

<p>Capsule machines allow you to buy your own favorite sea creatures in toy form!</p>

<p>This turtle is playing taxi for two freeloading fish. </p>

<p>A Mexican salamander is like a fish with legs. It attracted much attention in the Mysteries of the Sea area.</p>

<p>The flatfish has scales that help it blend into the sandy sea bottom. This is why both its eyes are on the upside of its body.</p>

<p>A large children's areas includes many pay rides and a merry-go-round.</p>

Archived content

Closed May 2015 – although unrelated to Marinepia, the Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium opened a few months later over in Sendai City.

Last updated: Nov 15, 2020

Matsushima has always been known for its beauty, but that beauty can overshadow some of the area's other attractions. Steps from Matsushimakaigan station is Japan's second oldest aquarium: Marinepia Aquarium. The aquarium was opened in 1927. That means it survived WWII and the unforgiving March 2011 tsunami and disaster, despite the epicenter being so close. Unfortunately, the aquarium will close its doors May 10th, 2015. A new, but unrelated aquarium will open later that year near the Sendai Port.

Nearly 400 species of 8000 marine animals and plants are represented at the aquarium, it is an amazing place, even if some of its facilities are aging.

Justin Velgus @justin.velgus

Justin Velgus (ジャスティンベルガス) is the Miyagi Prefecture expert for Japan Travel and a long-term contributor since 2012 with a focus on the Tohoku region. Justin has written extensively for JT, and other publications such as VisitMiyagi and Sake Today, amassing over 350 published articles...