Izu Mito Sea Paradise Travel Guide

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.