Do you want to visit an aquarium in Japan with a twist? Looking to smell something a little… interesting? Wanna watch colorful fish swim in stunning artistic displays? Then it’s time to go on an unforgettable adventure to the ATOA Aquarium in Kobe, one of the most unique aquariums in the Kansai area.
If you’ve read any of my previous articles, you already know I’m always searching for fun and unique things to do in the Kansai region of Japan. From cultural festivals to hidden cafes and creative art exhibits, I’m practically a Kansai adventure expert at this point! I had been dying to go to this aquarium for a while, but when I found out that one of my favorite artists was collaborating with it, I knew I absolutely had to go.
You might have visited an aquarium before — maybe even one in Japan — but ATOA Aquarium (Aqua Terrace of Art) in Kobe takes the experience to another level. It’s four floors of interactive, visually stunning exhibits that blend art, light, sound, and aquatic life into one magical, immersive world. This isn’t just an aquarium; it’s an artistic sensory experience that’s fun for kids, families, and adults alike.
Here are a few things that make ATOA Aquarium in Kobe truly special:
ATOA is known as an “art aquarium,” where creativity meets marine life. Every tank and exhibit is designed like a living art piece, merging modern Japanese art and digital installations with beautiful underwater creatures.
From the moment you walk in, you’re surrounded by sounds, lights, and visuals that bring each area to life. It’s not just about looking at fish — it’s about feeling connected to the environment. The exhibits use technology, lighting, and natural elements to engage all your senses, making it one of the most Instagrammable aquariums in Japan.
You read that right. One of ATOA Aquarium’s most talked-about attractions is the quirky “Animal Butt Sniffing Experience.” Visitors can smell replicas of different animal scents — including their behinds! It’s weird, it’s funny, and it’s absolutely unforgettable.
If you’ve followed my blog for a while, you probably know how much I adore Mika Ninagawa, one of Japan’s most celebrated photographers and filmmakers. I even wrote about her exhibit earlier this year (check it out here: A Work of Art: Mika Ninagawa Art Exhibit). When I saw she was collaborating with ATOA for the “Resonant Aquarium” exhibition, I knew it was destiny.
I managed to go on the very last day of the collaboration, and it was every bit as breathtaking as I imagined. Mika Ninagawa’s signature vibrant colors and dreamlike world perfectly matched the aquarium’s artistic vision. The combination of marine life and her visual storytelling created an experience that was both meditative and inspiring.
Getting to ATOA Aquarium in Kobe is easy. It’s about a 20-minute walk from Motomachi Station, and I promise it’s a pleasant stroll. The path along Kobe Port is scenic, so you’ll probably find yourself stopping to take a few photos. When you arrive, you’ll notice the aquarium is part of the VOYAGE KOBE and TOOTH MART complex, which also has restaurants, cafés, and shops — perfect for grabbing a bite before or after your visit.
Adult tickets cost 2,600 yen on weekdays and 2,800 yen on weekends or holidays. You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the entrance, but I recommend booking early since it’s a popular Kansai attraction, especially during seasonal events and special exhibitions.
As soon as you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a spectacular display of light and movement. It truly feels like stepping into a living piece of art — where the boundary between nature and imagination fades away. ATOA Aquarium beautifully merges marine life with modern Japanese aesthetics, creating an atmosphere that feels both futuristic and soothing.
On the first floor, you’ll find adorable sea creatures and mesmerizing installations. Seahorses, jellyfish, and brightly colored fish float gracefully under glowing lights. Each tank feels like a small art gallery, and you can easily spend an hour just watching the peaceful underwater scenes.
One of the coolest activities you can do here is the Pearl Harvest Experience. You can actually remove a real pearl from an Akoya oyster! Even if you don’t participate, the aquarium sells stunning pearl jewelry — earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and keychains — all made from real pearls harvested on-site. It’s the perfect souvenir from Kobe and a great gift idea for friends or family.
One of the highlights of ATOA Aquarium is the Forest of Spirits area, designed to immerse you in nature through sound, light, and design. The atmosphere feels enchanted — with the soft glow of lights and natural wood tones that transport you deep into a fantasy forest.
Here, you’ll meet some of the aquarium’s most unique residents, including naked mole rats (yes, like Rufus from Kim Possible!) and the adorable quokka, known as “the happiest animal on Earth.” My inner child was screaming with joy when I saw the little cuties haha. Watching them up close made my day, and it’s easy to see why both kids and adults love this part of the aquarium.
Next up — my personal favorite area — the aquarium library! I had no idea this existed until I stumbled upon it. Imagine shelves of books surrounded by aquariums filled with colorful fish. It’s a peaceful, cozy space that feels like something out of a storybook. I could’ve stayed there for hours reading and relaxing. There’s also a charming little photo spot in this area, perfect for anyone looking to snap aesthetic photos for social media.
Speaking of photo spots, Miyabi: Light and Shadow is an absolute must-see. This dark, illuminated room lets you “walk on water” as koi fish swim beneath your feet, projected by advanced lighting. The mirrored floors, reflections, and serene music make it a dream come true for photographers and creators. If you’re looking for the most Instagram-worthy aquarium in Kansai, this is it.
Now for the part everyone’s curious about — the animal butt sniffing zone! ATOA Aquarium offers four different scent samples representing different animal behinds. It’s a funny, slightly weird, and surprisingly educational experience that gives you a glimpse (or whiff!) into the animal kingdom in a very… unique way. You’ll just have to visit to fully understand it!
Before I end, I have to come back to Mika Ninagawa’s Resonant Aquarium. Her exhibit inside ATOA was nothing short of breathtaking — a kaleidoscope of light, color, and underwater beauty. Watching fish glide through her world of vibrant hues was like stepping into a living painting. There’s a reason Mika Ninagawa remains one of my favorite Japanese artists. Her collaboration with ATOA was pure magic, and I felt deeply moved and inspired once again.
There’s so much more to say about ATOA Aquarium Kobe, but honestly, it’s something you need to experience yourself. Every floor is full of surprises, creativity, and fun — from marine art displays and animal exhibits to the quirky sniffing experiences and immersive environments.
Whether you’re living in Japan, traveling through Kansai, or just looking for something new to do near Osaka, Kyoto, or Kobe, ATOA Aquarium is one of the best indoor attractions you can visit. It’s perfect for date nights, family outings, or solo adventures when you want to recharge and rediscover your sense of wonder.
I hope this article inspires you to add ATOA Aquarium to your Kansai travel bucket list. It’s fun, educational, artistic, and a little bit weird — in the best way possible. Until next time, stay happy, safe, and healthy — and keep exploring the magic that Japan has to offer.
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