©átoa
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A theater-style aquarium offering a new sensory experience where aquatic life merges with art.
Opened in 2021 within the “Kobe Port Museum,” a multi-purpose cultural facility in Kobe’s bay area, this urban aquarium is home to around 60 tanks, housing approximately 100 species (3,000 individual creatures), and showcases about 50 pieces of stage art and digital art. It’s a new kind of theater-style aquarium.
Exhibits include “PLANETS – miracle planet,” where mist and lasers rain down from the ceiling onto one of the largest spherical tanks in Japan, and “MIYABI – Between peace and light,” featuring a Japanese garden-themed setting in which visitors can walk over a glass-floored tank filled with swimming Nishikigoi (ornamental carp). Each zone explores a unique theme, combining aquariums with diverse artistic elements and effects to create mesmerizing, one-of-a-kind spaces. Photography and filming inside the facility are allowed (though using flash toward living creatures and any form of live streaming are prohibited), making it possible to capture stunning pictures and videos not seen elsewhere. The outdoor area hosts otters and penguins in an open-air setting, where feeding demonstrations are offered. There are also popular hands-on feeding programs, including opportunities to feed giant tortoises and pirarucu.
The on-site ÁTOA Café serves foods and sweets inspired by marine life, and the museum shop offers unique original merchandise—both highly recommended stops during your visit.
Tropical fish swimming under colorful lights reminiscent of a school of fish ©átoa
A veil of light pouring down onto one of Japan’s largest spherical tanks ©átoa
A Japanese garden-like space with koi swimming beneath your feet ©átoa
A massive tank that makes you feel as if you too are floating underwater ©átoa
An otherworldly space where driftwood art coexists with freshwater fish and amphibians ©átoa
Around 2,500 books, specimens, and terrariums that spark intellectual curiosity ©átoa
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
English signs available. Korean, Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese pamphlets are available.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
KOBE Free Wi-Fi is available.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Yes.
Q
Is it possible to re-enter the premises?
Re-entry is not allowed.
Q
Are there any smoking areas?
Not available.
Q
May I take photos inside the facility?
You are welcome to take photos, but please refrain from using flash toward the animals for their protection. Live streaming on YouTube, Instagram, or other platforms is also prohibited.
