Tokyo is a vibrant and bustling city that offers an endless list of unique experiences and many places to see cherry blossom. Among these experiences is the Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa (マクセル アクアパーク品川 in Japanese), a world-class aquarium with diverse aquatic life and captivating shows. As someone who loves to travel and explore new places, I was excited to visit this incredible attraction and witness the Spectacular Dolphin Show firsthand. 

In this article, I will share my experiences and insights from my visit to Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa. With over 1 million visitors annually, this aquarium is one of the most popular destinations in Tokyo. Join me on this unforgettable aquatic adventure, and discover why Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa is a must-see destination in Tokyo.

Discovering Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa

Let me take you on a journey to this breathtaking park in the heart of Tokyo.

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the park’s stunning architecture and colorful marine-inspired decorations. As you enter the park, you will feel like you are diving into a mystical underwater world full of wonders.

First Impressions of the park’s layout, design, and exhibits

The park’s layout designed to take you on a journey through different zones, each showcasing unique marine life and aquatic wonders. From the vivid jellyfish exhibit to the magnificent dolphin stadium, you will immerse yourself in a sea of colors and sounds that will mesmerize you.

As you explore the park, you will notice that each exhibit is carefully crafted to mimic the natural habitat of marine creatures. You will get a chance to see various species of fish, sea turtles, penguins, and even sea lions up close and personal.

History and concept behind Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa, Tokyo

Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa first opened its doors in 1991 and was designed to showcase the beauty and wonder of the sea to the public. The park’s concept revolves around creating a space where visitors can connect with marine life and learn the importance of preserving the ocean’s ecosystem.

Honestly, the park’s design is inspired by the sea. Every detail is meant to transport you into a magical underwater world. Everything in the aqua park is designed to evoke a sense of wonder and awe, from the wave-shaped architecture to the jellyfish-like chandeliers.

What to expect upon arrival in Maxell Aqua Park

Maxell Aqua Park is conveniently located in the Shinagawa ward, just a few minutes from the Shinagawa Station. You can easily reach the park via the JR Yamanote line or the Keikyu line. Once you arrive at the station, just follow the signs to Aqua Park, and you will find yourself in front of the entrance.

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the park’s stunning architecture and colorful marine-inspired decorations. As you enter the park, you will feel like you are diving into a mystical underwater world full of wonders.

Fun Facts about the Maxell Aqua Park and its Features

• Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa has one of the largest indoor dolphin stadiums in the world, with a seating capacity of over 2,000 people.
• The park’s jellyfish exhibit features over 5,000 jellyfish from more than 50 different species.
• The park’s main tank, Aqua Stadium, holds over 2,200 tons of water and is home to various marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and giant groupers.
• Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa is one of the most popular attractions in Tokyo, with over 1 million visitors each year.

The spectacular dolphin show

The main attraction of Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa is undoubtedly the Spectacular Dolphin Show. You’ll be transported to an underwater world of wonder and amazement as soon as you enter the arena. The performances happens in a large circular pool that serves as the park’s centrepiece.

Dolphin show’s format and what to expect

The Spectacular Dolphin Show at Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa is a one-of-a-kind experience that is not to be missed. The show features several different dolphin performances, each with its own unique choreography, music, and lighting effects. 

The show typically lasts for about 20-30 minutes and divided into several segments. The first segment features the dolphins swimming and jumping through hoops, while the second segment focuses on their acrobatic skills. The third segment showcases the dolphins’ intelligence and teamwork as they perform synchronized swimming and other impressive maneuvers.

Throughout the show, the trainers provide informative commentary (in Japanese mostly) about the dolphins and their behaviors, which helps enhance the performance’s educational value. The music and lighting effects also play a crucial role in creating a mesmerizing and immersive experience for the audience.

What makes Maxell’s dolphin show special 

As a traveler, it’s hard not to be awed by the incredible talents of these beautiful creatures. The dolphins are indeed a sight to behold, from high jumps and flip to synchronized swimming and dancing.

During my visit, I was particularly impressed by how the show integrated technology into the performances. There were moments when the arena transformed into a virtual ocean, with images of marine life swimming across the walls and floor. The combination of live performance and special effects made the experience truly unforgettable.

To give you a better sense of what to expect, here are some photos and videos of the Spectacular Dolphin Show at Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa.

Exploring the aqua garden and other attractions at the park

As I wandered around Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa, I couldn’t help but marvel at the various exhibits that awaited me. Of course, the Spectacular Dolphin Show was the main attraction. Still, there were plenty of other exhibits that caught my attention.

One of the highlights was the Aqua Garden, a stunning area with various aquatic plants and creatures. The dimly lit environment and the sound of trickling water provided a peaceful and calming atmosphere. The aquariums designed creatively, with a unique touch of neon lights, which made the experience even more enjoyable.

Another exhibit that stood out was the jellyfish aquarium, which housed various species of jellyfish, each with its unique features and colors. I always amazed by how gracefully these creatures moved in the water. It was fascinating to learn about their unique characteristics.

For those interested in learning more about marine life, there were various educational exhibits, such as the “Marine Creatures of Tokyo Bay” exhibit, showcasing the diverse range of creatures in the Tokyo Bay area.

I recommend planning ahead and prioritizing the exhibits that interest them the most, as there are so many to see. Don’t miss the Penguin Encounter, where you can see adorable penguins up close and learn more about them from the keepers.

As you walk around the aqua park, keep an eye out for the “Digital Aquarium,” where you can create your own virtual fish and watch them swim around. 

And don’t forget to take a stroll through the souvenir shop, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs to bring back home.

With so much to see and explore, Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa truly offers an unforgettable aquatic adventure for visitors of all ages.

Things to know before visiting Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa

If you’re planning a trip to Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa, here are some must-know tips to help make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Ticket Prices and Opening Hours

Before planning your visit, always check the ticket prices, availability, and opening hours. 

The ticket price for adults is ¥2,300, and for children (aged 6-15 years) is ¥1,200. 

The park is open daily, including public holidays, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. It’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and queues.

Note: Be sure to also check the Maxell Aqua Park’s official website.

How to Get There

Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa is located in the Takanawa district of Minato Ward in Tokyo, Japan. You can easily access the park by train or bus. 

The closest station is Shinagawa Station, served by the JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, and the Tokaido Shinkansen. 

Once you arrive at the station, follow the signs to Aqua Park, and you will find yourself in front of the entrance. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the park. 

Alternatively, you can take the Toei Asakusa Line to Sengakuji Station and walk for about 15 minutes to reach the park.

What to Bring

Bringing a camera to capture the stunning exhibits, including the Spectacular Dolphin Show, is always a good idea. Also, don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes as the park requires walking for a few hours.

Avoiding Crowds

To avoid the crowds, arriving early or later in the day is best when most visitors have already left. The park is relatively quiet in the late afternoon, and you can enjoy the exhibits and attractions without having to jostle for space.

Other Nearby Attractions

If you have some time to spare after your visit, you can explore some of the nearby attractions in Tokyo. One of the most popular attractions is the Tokyo Tower, just a 10-minute drive from the park. Other nearby attractions include the Roppongi Hills shopping complex and the Odaiba waterfront district. If you are visiting during winter time then you can visit one of many place to see incredible winter illumination in Tokyo. 

By following these tips, you’ll have a more enjoyable experience at Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa and make the most of your visit to this unique and unforgettable aquatic adventure in Tokyo.

Conclusion

After visiting Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa and experiencing the Spectacular Dolphin Show, I must say it was of the unforgettable aquatic adventure in Tokyo. From the park’s well-designed layout and exhibits to the mesmerizing dolphin show, it was truly a unique and remarkable experience.

I highly recommend anyone visiting Tokyo must add Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa to their itinerary. With so many exciting exhibits and attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And, of course, the Spectacular Dolphin Show is a must-see attraction that you must not be miss. And don’t forget to bring a camera to capture all the fantastic sights and sounds.

I hope this article has inspired you to visit and experience it by yourself. Share your own experiences or ask any questions in the comments section below. Download 6 free itinerary to plan your Japan golden week holidays.

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