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Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa aquarium in Setagaya, Tokyo
Photo: Google
View of Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa in Setagaya, Tokyo
Photo: Google
View of Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa in Setagaya, Tokyo
Photo: Google

Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa

4.3(18,033 reviews)$$Aquarium
🕑 2 to 3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers adore the touch pools where they can interact with sea creatures, while elementary-aged kids appreciate the educational programs, jellyfish exhibits with stunning light displays, and the dynamic dolphin performances.

About

Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa offers an exciting blend of marine life and cutting-edge technology, featuring interactive touch pools, spectacular dolphin shows, and immersive digital displays that captivate children. Located conveniently inside Shinagawa Prince Hotel near a major train station, this modern aquarium provides a perfect rainy-day activity or cool respite from Tokyo sightseeing with hands-on learning opportunities that engage kids of all ages.

Highlights

  • Interactive touch pools where children can gently handle starfish, rays, and other marine creatures
  • Spectacular dolphin shows combining acrobatics, music, and impressive light displays
  • Mesmerizing jellyfish exhibits with colorful LED lighting and mirrors creating magical atmospheres
  • Merry-go-round and other small rides within the facility that add extra entertainment
  • Educational programs and feeding demonstrations that teach kids about ocean conservation

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Purchase tickets online in advance to skip long queues, especially on weekends and holidays when local families visit
  2. 2.Visit on weekday mornings right at opening (10:00 AM) for the smallest crowds and best viewing of popular exhibits
  3. 3.Download a translation app beforehand as most signage and programs are primarily in Japanese, though staff are generally helpful
  4. 4.The dolphin show is a must-see attraction, so check show times immediately upon arrival and plan your visit around the schedule
  5. 5.Bring extra clothing for young children as they often get wet at the touch pools and may want to participate enthusiastically

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings between 10:00 AM and noon offer the lightest crowds. Avoid weekends, Japanese national holidays, and school vacation periods (late July through August, late March) when the aquarium gets significantly busier with local families.

What to Know

Admission is moderately priced at around 2,500 yen for adults and 1,300 yen for elementary students (children under 4 free). The aquarium is located inside Shinagawa Prince Hotel with easy access from Shinagawa Station, and while there are dining options in the hotel complex, food and drinks from outside are not permitted inside the aquarium itself.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round with consistent hours. Special seasonal events include summer night aquarium programs with extended hours and holiday-themed decorations during Christmas and New Year periods. The indoor facility makes it an excellent option regardless of weather conditions.

Nearby Eats

Shinagawa Prince Hotel contains multiple family-friendly restaurants including Hapuna, a buffet restaurant with kid-friendly options and high chairs. For authentic Japanese dining that welcomes children, the hotel's food court offers ramen, udon, and other casual options at reasonable prices.

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