Sunshine Aquarium Special Exhibition: "Midnight Creatures"
A Unique Opportunity to Observe Nocturnal Animals 🌙
The Sunshine Aquarium is set to host a special exhibition titled "Midnight Creatures," offering visitors a rare glimpse into the lives of animals that thrive in the dark. This event, running from March 14, 2025, to November 24, 2025, showcases approximately 20 species that are most active in low-light conditions.
A Nocturnal Navigation
The exhibition is thoughtfully divided into three distinct zones: cave, night sea, and forest. Each area provides detailed explanations of the unique attributes of nocturnal, cave-dwelling, and bioluminescent creatures. The dimly lit environment of the exhibition allows for an unusual opportunity: observing nocturnal animals in their active state, as opposed to their typically dormant daytime behavior.
One of the highlights is the "peephole" feature, designed for discreet observation of the Splendid Alfonsino. This fish uses a light-emitting organ to glow, and visitors can witness the flickering light through the peephole.
The exhibition also includes the extremely rare Slender Giant Salamander. Thought to be extinct in the wild in China, there are only two known individuals kept in Japan, making their display a truly exceptional event.
Exclusive Merchandise
In addition to the biological displays, the exhibition offers a range of original merchandise, including T-shirts and mugs. Special admission tickets that include an original "Midnight Creatures Exhibition" glow-in-the-dark sticker are also available. These stickers come in two designs, one featuring forest creatures and the other sea creatures, both revealing images of animals active at midnight when viewed in the dark. The specific sticker received with the ticket is randomly assigned.
Essential Information for Visitors
- Location: Sunshine Aquarium
- Nearest Stations: Higashi-Ikebukuro Station / Ikebukuro Station
- Address: Rooftop, World Import Mart Building, Sunshine City 3-1, Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-8630
MAP - Venue: Sunshine Aquarium Special Exhibition Hall
- Event Period: March 14, 2025 (Friday) – November 24, 2025 (Monday/Holiday)
- Opening Hours: Vary depending on the period; please check the official website for details.
- Fees:
- Regular Admission Ticket: 600 yen
- Admission Ticket with "Original Glow-in-the-Dark Sticker": 800 yen
- Official Website:
https://sunshinecity.jp/file/aquarium/mayonaka/
Please be aware that the details provided are subject to change, so it is advisable to check the official website of the venue or organizer for the most current information.
For those planning to visit from afar, consider exploring accommodation options in the area: 🛏️ See hotels near Tokyo.
What is Sunshine Aquarium?
Sunshine Aquarium is an aquatic facility located in Tokyo, Japan, atop the Sunshine City complex in Ikebukuro. It offers visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of marine life through its exhibits. The aquarium features both local and exotic species, showcasing environments from coral reefs to deep-sea habitats. It emphasizes conservation and education, making it a popular destination for those interested in marine biology and oceanic ecosystems.