Located in Susami, Wakayama Prefecture, the Susami Crustacean Aquarium is a unique aquarium specializing in exhibits of shrimp and crabs.
It’s situated within the same area as Michi-no-Eki Susami, repurposing an old school gymnasium.
Unlike most aquariums, which focus on large fish, dolphins, or sharks, this one places crustaceans like shrimp and crabs in the spotlight, offering visitors a deeper understanding of their unique behaviors.
Overview of This Unique Aquarium in Susami, Wakayama
The southern region of Wakayama (Kinan), where Susami is located, boasts rich seas that support a wide variety of marine life.
It’s also known for leisure activities like swimming, fishing, and diving.
This aquarium makes use of these natural resources by focusing on “shrimp and crabs,” creatures that usually don’t take center stage in other aquariums.
Background and Concept of an Aquarium Where Shrimp and Crabs Take Center Stage
The decision to specialize in shrimp and crabs was influenced by Susami’s rich marine resources and the town’s cultural ties to the sea.
Susami faces the rich fishing grounds of the Karekinada coast, a rias coastline, and has a long history of thriving fishing industries.
In particular, the impressive spiny lobsters caught here inspired the first director to create an aquarium dedicated to showcasing crustaceans like shrimp and crabs.
Driven by the wish to introduce visitors to the charm of these often-overlooked creatures, the aquarium focuses on them in its exhibits.
The Director’s Passion and Unique Management Style
The Susami Crustacean Aquarium reflects the director’s deep passion. With extensive knowledge and love for marine life, the director shares detailed explanations of each creature’s habitat and characteristics with visitors.
The aquarium provides a variety of educational activities, especially designed to inspire children’s interest in marine biology.
In fact, the director takes on the role of “Shrimp and Crab Master,” creating a welcoming atmosphere that adds to the aquarium’s charm.
Exhibits and Highlights of the Susami Crustacean Aquarium
The Susami Crustacean Aquarium showcases various crustaceans, including shrimp and crabs, as well as other marine creatures like sea turtles. The aquarium emphasizes ecological displays, allowing visitors to observe these creatures’ natural behaviors up close.
Diverse Displays of Shrimp and Crabs and Unique Ecological Insights
The shrimp and crab exhibits are a major attraction. Various species of shrimp and crabs are on display, each with detailed explanations about their traits and habits.
For example, hermit crabs and king crabs, with their distinct behaviors, showcase the fascinating diversity of crustaceans.
The aquarium also features interactive areas where visitors can touch certain exhibits, making it a popular spot for hands-on learning experiences.
A large spider crab in a spacious tank catches the eye. The crab, donated by local fishermen because of its size, reportedly doesn’t taste as good when it’s so large!
Visitors can even touch spider crabs and giant isopods here.
The Popular Sea Turtle Exhibit and Its Charm
The Susami Crustacean Aquarium also features sea turtles, in addition to shrimp and crabs.
In the sea turtle area, visitors can watch them swim up close and even feed them, adding an attraction for those interested in marine life beyond crustaceans.
Other Fascinating Creatures
The aquarium also features a massive moray eel exhibit. The quirky displays, such as “eel within an eel,” are sure to bring a smile.
The Humboldt penguins are also a crowd-pleaser with their adorable behavior.
Although not a large aquarium, its carefully curated exhibits make it a must-visit!
Visit Duration: 1–2 Hours
As the aquarium is housed in a former school gym, it’s a compact facility.
A quick visit can be enjoyed in about an hour, while taking your time will require around two hours.
Access and Basic Information for Susami Crustacean Aquarium
The Susami Crustacean Aquarium is located in the southernmost part of Wakayama Prefecture. It’s somewhat remote and easier to reach by car.
However, if you’re heading to destinations like Kushimoto or Katsuura, it makes for a perfect stopover.
Access and Parking Information (By Car or Train)
For those driving, the aquarium is conveniently accessible from the Susami South IC on the Kisei Expressway. From there, head south, and you’ll find it at the intersection with Route 42.
The aquarium shares a parking lot with Michi-no-Eki Susami, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
If traveling by train, the nearest station is Esumi Station on the JR Kisei Main Line, about a 10-minute walk away.
However, with only eight trains per day in each direction, train travel can be quite inconvenient.
- By car: About 2 minutes (1.3 km) from the Kisei Expressway’s Susami South IC
- By train: About a 10-minute walk (700 meters) from Esumi Station on the JR Kisei Line
Opening Hours, Admission Fees, and Discount Coupons
Opening Hours
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:20 PM)
Open year-round
Admission Fees
| Adults | Elementary & Middle School Students | Children (3+ years) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Admission | ¥800 | ¥500 | ¥300 |
| Susami Residents | ¥400 | ¥250 | ¥150 |
| Persons with Disabilities | ¥400 | ¥250 | ¥150 |
| Groups (15+ people) | ¥720 | ¥450 | ¥250 |
| Annual Pass | ¥2000 | ¥1000 | ¥500 |
| Kushimoto Marine Park Combo Ticket | ¥2200 | ¥1200 | – |
Children under 3 enter for free.
Discounts cannot be combined.
Occasionally, discount coupons are available from the local tourism association or on the official website, so be sure to check in advance for savings.
Pet Policy and Accessibility Features
Pets are generally not allowed in the Susami Crustacean Aquarium, but assistance dogs are permitted.
The facility is designed with accessibility in mind, making it easy for wheelchair users and visitors with mobility issues to enjoy their visit.
Dining and Lunch Options Near the Susami Crustacean Aquarium
While the aquarium itself doesn’t have dining facilities, the adjacent Michi-no-Eki Susami offers a variety of local specialties and souvenirs.
Here, visitors can enjoy dishes made with fresh local ingredients. The seafood and wild boar dishes are particularly popular, offering a taste of the region’s unique flavors.
The souvenir shop also sells products related to shrimp and crabs, as well as fresh seafood directly from the local fishing port.
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