Sunshine Aquarium (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Sunshine Aquarium?
What makes it 91% Kids-Friendly: Kids under 12 can view 750 species, cheer rooftop sea-lion acts, and join elementary-level feeding tours; railings suit child height and stroller parking is nearby, though some extras need age 6+.
Positives:
- Indoor shelter: Aquarium remains warm and dry on rainy days, making it a good indoor option.
- Family facilities: Stroller parking, elevators, and family restrooms with changing tables on each floor.
Challenges:
- Limited space at peak times: Tight walkways and exhibit areas can feel crowded on weekends and holidays.
- Under-Elementary event restrictions: Kids under school age cannot join premium feeding or guided tours, they must watch from outside.
What is Sunshine Aquarium?
- A high-rise aquarium positioned atop the Sunshine City complex in Ikebukuro, Tokyo
- A facility that houses some 37,000 marine creatures representing over 750 species, from deep-sea fish to coral reef and subtropical inhabitants
- An architectural concept embodying “Oasis in the Sky,” merging rooftop design with immersive marine habitats against the Tokyo skyline
What is so special about Sunshine Aquarium for with kids?
- Explore 750+ species in an 'Oasis in the Sky' aquarium.
- Watch penguins swim overhead in the 'Penguins in the Sky' tank.
- Enjoy sea lion shows and underwater dive performances daily.
- Observe sea otters up close during scheduled feeding times.
- Use family-friendly facilities like elevators and changing rooms.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for exhibits, animal shows, and a break without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Sunshine Aquarium
Penguins in the Sky:
Watch African Penguins swim in a 12m-wide overhanging tank above the city.
Tip: Stand near the glass edge on the rooftop for a direct overhead view as they 'fly'.
Sea Lion Stage Show:
See sea lions perform hoops, somersaults, and greeting tricks on an open stage.
Tip: Check the show schedule on arrival and arrive 10 minutes early for front-row seats.
Underwater Dive Performance:
Watch divers feed fish and talk through an underwater mic inside the Sunshine Reef tank.
Tip: View from the lower-level windows to catch bubbles and fish feeding up close.
Sea Otter Feeding:
Observe playful sea otters get fed at close range near the Marine Garden.
Tip: Watch feeding times at 11:30 and 15:00, and let kids stand at the front railing.
When is the best time to visit Sunshine Aquarium (Tokyo, Japan)?
Weekday mornings in summer have fewer crowds. In winter, bring a light jacket on the rooftop Marine Garden, as it can be windy.
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Reviews of Sunshine Aquarium (Tokyo)
Shahriar Mohammad Nowshad
Awesome place to enjoy a day with sea creatures inside Tokyo. I loved the big aquarium with different types of fish. It's really nice to see such amazing creatures up close. Recommend for parents with small kids as this would be a fun place to explore for the little humans.
Rav cell
Sunshine Aquarium in Ikebukuro is a unique and enjoyable destination, perfect for families and marine life enthusiasts alike. The rooftop location offers a memorable experience, especially with the “Penguin in the Sky” exhibit where penguins appear to swim through the air with the Tokyo skyline as a backdrop. The aquarium features a diverse collection of over 750 species, including jellyfish, octo...
Enan Riordan
My visit to sunshine aquarium was an extremely depressing experience due to the cruel treatment of their animals. The large animals are kept in enclosures far too small for their size, the sea lion is kept in a glass ring too small for it to turn around in. The pelicans spend their entire time picking at their own feathers, and all of them have their wings clipped to prevent them from flying. All...
Milanie Joy Lee
This is one of the nicest aquariums I have seen. The glasses are very clean so you can clearly see the animals inside the aquarium. There is one area where you can see the penguins swim against a backdrop of buildings across the aquarium. You can also see the pelicans moving around, which was very unique. The aquarium is not that big but houses a good number of species and is just perfect for litt...
Sharanya
Penguins had rashes and were not healthy. Extremely crowded on the weekends and public holiday. Tickets were too expensive. Too many people and cannot view exhibits properly. Need limitation.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult tickets | JPY 4,800 |
| 2 Child tickets | JPY 2,400 |
| Premium Feeding Experience (optional) | JPY 2,000 |
| Souvenirs and snacks | JPY 2,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 11,200 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Sunshine Aquarium
- Online ticket booking: Buy timed-entry tickets on the official site to skip the entry queue.
- Early arrival: Start at 10:00 when doors open to enjoy shows with fewer people around.
Map of Sunshine Aquarium
Address: Japan, 〒170-8630 Tokyo, Toshima City, Higashiikebukuro, 3-chōme−1−１ サンシャインシティワールドインポートマートビル 屋上
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About Sunshine Aquarium
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 3-3989-3466Average price
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