Wakkanai Noshappu Aquarium, Public aquarium in Wakkanai, Japan
Wakkanai Noshappu Aquarium is a public aquarium displaying marine life from Japan's northern waters, with a focus on cold-water species. The collection includes around 1,300 specimens representing about 120 different species in its tanks and exhibits.
This facility opened in 1968 as Japan's northernmost aquarium at that time, establishing a new focus on cold-water marine life. Its creation marked an important moment in bringing northern ocean ecosystems to public attention in the country.
The facility gives visitors a chance to see seals and penguins in action during feeding times, revealing how these northern marine animals behave in daily life. Local waters are represented throughout the tanks, making the place a window into the region's wildlife.
The facility adjusts its hours depending on the season, so it is helpful to check exact opening times before visiting. The location is easy to reach and provides enough space to walk through all the exhibits comfortably.
The facility runs special breeding programs for the Itou fish, a rare species that appears on Japan's list of endangered animals. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts for threatened species through observing these breeding projects.
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