June 19, 2023

Sumida Aquarium: An Urban Oasis Beneath Tokyo Skytree

Located inside Tokyo Skytree Town, Sumida Aquarium is a fully indoor aquarium where visitors can immerse themselves in the world of the sea while remaining in the heart of the city. Open year-round and unaffected by the weather, it is also open until evening, making it an ideal stop after sightseeing or work.

The aquarium features penguins, jellyfish, and spotted garden eels and exhibits that recreate the waters of the Ogasawara Islands. Together, they create a calm and soothing space that allows visitors to step away from the rush of urban life.

One of its most iconic attractions is the Big Schale, a shallow, basin-shaped jellyfish tank where around 500 moon jellyfish drift gracefully through the water. The interplay of light and water creates an almost artistic atmosphere, especially in the evening when the aquarium transforms into the blue-toned Blue Night Aquarium. Watching the jellyfish float quietly, visitors may feel as though time itself has slowed down.

Another highlight is the aquarium’s Magellanic penguins, who live in an open indoor pool. Each penguin has its own name, personality profile, and relationship story. The aquarium’s “penguin relationship chart,” showing couples, families, and social connections, has become especially popular with visitors from Japan and overseas. At night, the penguins appear even more charming as they rest close together under gentle lighting.

The Penguin Café offers light meals, sweets, drinks, and alcoholic beverages inspired by the aquarium’s marine life. Spending time with a favorite drink while gazing at the tanks is a small urban luxury unique to Tokyo.

After visiting the aquarium, guests can also enjoy the illuminated Tokyo Skytree and the surrounding night views. Whether for sightseeing, a date, or a quiet solo visit, Sumida Aquarium offers a refined and relaxing Tokyo experience.

From July 14 to September 14, 2026, Sumida Aquarium will host “Sumisui Fireworks 2026: A Cool Summer of Water and Light,” a seasonal event that combines traditional Japanese summer motifs such as fireworks, wind chimes, and goldfish with the aquarium’s own world of water and living creatures.