Izu Mito Sea Paradise: A Cove of Marine Wonders
Discover a world of marine life at Izu Mito Sea Paradise: captivating shows, diverse exhibits, and stunning views of Suruga Bay and Mt. Fuji.
Izu Mito Sea Paradise, affectionately called "Mitosea," is a long-standing aquarium in Numazu, Shizuoka Prefecture, celebrated for its stunning location and diverse marine attractions. Founded as Nakanoshima Aquarium in 1930, it holds the distinction of being the second oldest aquarium in Japan. The aquarium gained its current name in 1977 and was the first in Japan to successfully breed bottlenose dolphins, walruses and sea otters. The aquarium is uniquely situated in a natural cove on Suruga Bay, offering scenic views of the bay and Mount Fuji. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring around 300 species of sea creatures, with a focus on marine life from Suruga Bay, Japan's deepest bay. Exhibits range from local river fish to deep-sea creatures and otherworldly jellyfish. The aquarium is known for its entertaining shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and Steller's sea lions. These shows take place at the Dolphin Ocean Show Stage and the Show Stadium. The facility also offers opportunities for visitors to interact with animals through feeding experiences with penguins and red sea bream. In 2021, the aquarium opened the Mitoshi Lab, which allows visitors to observe the breeding of juvenile fish and the management of plankton. The facility also has a kids' area where children can play and learn about the ocean.
Local tips
- Check the show schedule upon arrival to plan your day around the dolphin and sea lion performances.
- Purchase tickets online or via the LINE app for a discount on admission.
- Arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially during peak season.
- Don't miss the opportunity to feed the penguins or sea bream for a memorable experience.
- Try the unique jellyfish ice cream available at the snack stand.
A brief summary to Izu Mito Sea Paradise
- 3-1 Uchiuranagahama, Numazu, Uchiuranagahama, Shizuoka, 410-0295, JP
- +8155-943-2331
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Bus
From Numazu Station, take an Izu Hakone bus bound for Izu Mito Sea Paradise. The bus ride takes approximately 20 minutes. Check the bus schedule for Love Live! Sunshine!! themed buses. A one-way trip costs around ¥500.
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Train and Bus
From Mishima Station on the Tokaido Line, transfer to the Izu-Hakone-Tetsudo Line and alight at Izu Nagaoka Station. From there, take an Izu Hakone bus to Izu Mito Sea Paradise, which is about a 20-minute ride. The bus fare is approximately ¥340.
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Car
Izu Mito Sea Paradise is accessible by car via the Tomei Expressway. From the Numazu IC, follow Route 136 and Izu-Chuo Road (Izu-nagaoka IC) for approximately 25 km. Parking is available at the aquarium for ¥500.
