Chitose Aquarium, Public aquarium in Chitose, Japan
Chitose Aquarium is a public facility focused on river ecosystems, guiding visitors through multiple observation areas where they can watch fish and other aquatic life. The largest freshwater tank system in Japan displays the variety of creatures living in local waterways.
The facility opened in 1994 and was the first aquarium in Japan to feature dedicated underwater viewing rooms for river observation. This innovation gave visitors an entirely new way to watch fish in their natural environment.
The aquarium reflects the deep connection between the community and salmon fishing, a practice that has shaped local life for generations. Visitors can see how central these fish are to the region's traditions and daily rhythms.
The facility is located within a roadside station and welcomes visitors daily, making it a convenient stop while traveling through the region. Access to the tanks and viewing areas is straightforward, so visitors can easily explore at their own pace.
During autumn months, the facility monitors around 200,000 salmon migrating upstream using traditional water wheels at specially designed observation points. Visitors can watch this remarkable natural cycle happen right before their eyes in real time.
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