The Art Aquarium Museum, located in Tokyo’s elegant Ginza district, offers a magical experience where goldfish meet art. Featuring over 5,000 goldfish in stunning displays, the museum combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern design. It’s a unique destination that promises to delight and inspire visitors of all ages.
What is the Art Aquarium Museum?
The Art Aquarium Museum is a mesmerizing blend of art, culture, and aquatic life, situated in the vibrant Ginza district of Tokyo. This unique attraction was born from the vision of artist Hidetomo Kimura, who first introduced the concept in 2007 with a temporary exhibit in Tokyo. The overwhelming success of this exhibit led to a series of tours across Japan and the world, including notable stops in Milan in 2015 and Shanghai in 2018. In May 2022, the museum found its permanent home in Ginza, Tokyo, solidifying its place as a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
The museum is dedicated to the appreciation of goldfish, a practice that dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867). During this time, goldfish were cherished for their beauty and often kept by the wealthy. The Art Aquarium Museum brings this traditional appreciation into the modern era, using cutting-edge technology and artistic design to create a living art exhibit. The goldfish are showcased in beautifully crafted tanks that are more than just containers; they are intricate art pieces that highlight the elegance and grace of these beloved creatures.
Each exhibit at the Art Aquarium Museum is designed to stimulate the senses, blending light, sound, and fragrance to create an immersive experience. The museum’s layout guides visitors through various themed areas, each offering a unique perspective on goldfish appreciation. From the serene Goldfish Bamboo Forest to the dynamic Goldfish Waterfall, every corner of the museum offers a new way to experience the beauty of goldfish.
In addition to its stunning displays, the Art Aquarium Museum frequently collaborates with artists from various fields, further enriching the visitor experience. These collaborations often result in temporary exhibits that provide fresh and exciting perspectives on the interplay between art and nature.
The Art Aquarium Museum is not just a place to view goldfish; it’s a celebration of the cultural and artistic heritage of Japan, brought to life through the medium of living art. Whether you’re captivated by the history of goldfish appreciation or simply enchanted by the visual spectacle, the Art Aquarium Museum offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Why Visit Art Aquarium Museum
- Goldfish as Living Art: Witness over 5,000 goldfish displayed in beautifully designed tanks that showcase their graceful movements and vibrant colors.
- Traditional and Modern Fusion: The museum seamlessly combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary art and technology, creating a unique sensory experience.
- Collaborative Art Installations: Discover stunning floral arrangements by renowned flower artist Shogo Kariyazaki, integrating goldfish displays with beautiful flowers.
Notable Exhibits
The Art Aquarium Museum routine updates their exhibits. These are among the notable displays the’ve had in the past.
Temaririum
The Temaririum exhibit draws inspiration from temari, a traditional Japanese ball-shaped toy often woven with colorful threads. In this display, the goldfish swim gracefully among patterns that mimic the intricate designs of temari balls. The entire wall is decorated with eighteen suspended balls, creating a dynamic and rhythmic space where the goldfish appear to dance between the threads. This exhibit combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with the fluid motion of the goldfish, offering a mesmerizing visual experience.
Goldfish Forest
The Goldfish Bamboo Forest is another highlight of the museum. This area simulates a bamboo grove where the bamboos are aquariums. The combination of goldfish swimming in column-like tanks and the soft glow of lanterns creates a peaceful and immersive atmosphere. The gentle bubbling of water and the subtle play of light and shadow add to the ambiance.
Chochinrium
Chochinrium is an enchanting exhibit that uses the motif of chochin, a type of traditional Japanese lighting often seen in festivals. The spherical lanterns in this exhibit serve a dual purpose—they not only illuminate the space but also act as magnifying lenses, making the goldfish appear larger as they swim inside the tanks. The extended lanterns are arranged in a quiet, reflective space that evokes the serene paths often found after a festival. The combination of light, magnification, and the graceful movement of the goldfish creates a tranquil and almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Goldfish Stone Lantern
Inspired by the stone lanterns found in Japanese shrines and temples, the Goldfish Stone Lantern exhibit uses granite lanterns as tanks. The flickering light inside these lanterns, combined with the swimming goldfish, creates a mystical and enchanting atmosphere. This exhibit beautifully merges traditional Japanese elements with the dynamic movement of goldfish, offering a unique visual experience.
A Show of Kingyo
In the A Show of Kingyo exhibit, the goldfish are displayed in low, square aquariums that allow visitors to admire them from above, a perspective that highlights the fish’s elegant movements and delicate features. The sides of the aquariums are adorned with kimono obi, or belts, adding a touch of traditional Japanese fashion to the display. This exhibit creates an eternal world where the infinite possibilities of goldfish are on full display, making it a serene and captivating experience for visitors who can appreciate the beauty of these aquatic creatures in a setting that blends art with nature.
Goldfish Waterfall
The Goldfish Waterfall is a spectacular visual feature of the museum. This multi-layered display resembles a cascading waterfall, with water flowing over several layers. Behind this curtain of water, goldfish swim gracefully, creating a dynamic and mesmerizing effect. Visitors can stand behind the waterfall to get a unique perspective of the goldfish, making it a favorite spot for photography. The serene sound of flowing water combined with the visual beauty of the goldfish makes this exhibit a standout attraction.
Goldfish Collection
The Goldfish Collection is designed to highlight the distinct beauty of uncommon varieties of goldfish, offering visitors a chance to see ones that are rarely encountered outside of specialized collections. The lighting is meticulously arranged to enhance the viewing experience, allowing the goldfish to be admired from multiple angles.
Goldfish Corridor
As you step into the Goldfish Corridor, you’re immediately greeted by a seemingly infinite space filled with goldfish tanks arranged in a colonnade. This design is inspired by the corridors found in traditional Japanese temples and shrines, creating a serene and reflective atmosphere. The corridor’s mirrored surfaces and strategic lighting enhance the visual impact, making it feel like the goldfish are swimming endlessly around you. This area not only offers a stunning visual experience but also invites visitors to immerse themselves in a tranquil, almost meditative environment.
Tenkurium
The Tenkurium, inspired by the concept of heaven, features aquariums that depict these ethereal blossoms, with goldfish swimming elegantly among them. The sheer scale of the display is overwhelming, creating a sense of awe and wonder as the goldfish move gracefully through the water, surrounded by the light and colors of the blooming flowers. Tenkurium is a must-see for those who wish to experience the dreamlike and surreal aspects of the Art Aquarium Museum.
Inomerium
The Inomerium exhibit incorporates the income (boar eye) motif, a heart-shaped pattern traditionally used in Japan to ward off evil and bring good luck. This motif is a common feature in the architecture of shrines and temples, as well as in various works of art. In Inomerium, the goldfish swim within tanks shaped like inome windows, creating a scene that is both elegant and symbolic. The exhibit not only showcases the beauty of the goldfish but also connects visitors to the deeper cultural significance of the Inome pattern, making it a meaningful and visually stunning part of the museum.
Ticket Information
Visiting the Art Aquarium Museum is straightforward, with multiple options for purchasing tickets. For the best experience, it is recommended to buy tickets online in advance. This not only secures your preferred time slot but also offers a slight discount. Online tickets are priced at 2,500 JPY, while same-day tickets cost 2,700 JPY and can be purchased at the ticket vending machine located on the 9th floor of the Ginza Mitsukoshi New Building. Children under elementary school age can enter for free, with a limit of two free children per paying adult. Junior high school students and above require a full-priced ticket. Note that once you exit the museum, re-entry is not allowed.
FAQ
Is the Art Aquarium Museum suitable for children?
Yes, the Art Aquarium Museum is suitable for children and offers free admission for up to two children under elementary school age per paying adult. However, strollers are not allowed inside the exhibition space. There is a stroller storage area on the 9th floor of the Ginza Mitsukoshi New Building, and the museum is equipped with baby-friendly facilities, including nursing rooms.
Can I take photos inside the museum?
Yes, photography and videography are allowed throughout the museum. However, flash photography and the use of tripods or monopods are prohibited to avoid disturbing the fish and other visitors. The museum has designated photo spots with optimal lighting, perfect for capturing memorable shots.
Are there any discounts available for students or seniors?
Currently, the museum does not offer specific discounts for students, seniors, or people with disabilities. All visitors, including those requiring assistance, need to purchase a general admission ticket. Group reservations are possible, and for more details, visitors can check the information about group reservations on the museum’s official website.
Can I change the date or time of my ticket after purchase?
In principle, the museum does not accept date changes or cancellations after the purchase is completed. It is advisable to select your preferred date and time carefully when purchasing your tickets online. For any specific inquiries or issues, visitors can contact the museum’s customer service.
Can I bring my pet to the museum?
Pets are not allowed inside the Art Aquarium Museum, with the exception of service animals that assist visitors with disabilities. Visitors are advised to make arrangements for their pets before visiting the museum.
Museum Hours and Best Times to Visit
The Art Aquarium Museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with the last admission at 6:00 PM. To avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed visit, consider going on a weekday morning. The museum can become particularly busy on weekends and holidays, which might make it harder to fully appreciate the exhibits and take photos. During special events or seasonal exhibitions, the museum sometimes extends its hours, staying open until 8:00 PM on certain days. Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and special events.
Tips for Visitors
- Plan Your Timing: Allocate 1-2 hours for your visit to fully explore the exhibits and take photos without rushing.
- Avoid Flash Photography: Flash photography is prohibited to avoid startling the goldfish. Use the museum’s ambient lighting for better photo results.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The museum involves a fair amount of walking and standing, so wear comfortable footwear.
- Leave Large Bags Behind: The museum does not have coin-operated lockers, so avoid bringing large bags. Use the return-type coin lockers on the 12th floor of the Ginza Mitsukoshi New Building if necessary.
- Accessibility: If you are a wheelchair user, use the elevator to the 9th floor and ask staff for assistance. Note that strollers are not allowed inside the exhibition space.
How to Get to Art Aquarium Museum
By Train
The closest station is Ginza Station, accessible via 3 subway lines: Ginza Line, Marunouchi Line, and Hibiya Line. Use exit A7 to reach the Mitsukoshi Department Store, where the museum is located. The Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line stops at Ginza-itchome Station, a five-minute walk from the museum via exit 9. The Toei Asakusa Line and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line stop at Higashi Ginza Station, just a two-minute walk through the underground passage toward Ginza Station. For JR Line users, Yurakucho Station is a nine-minute walk from the Central or Ginza exit.
By Car
If you are coming from central Tokyo, take the Inner Circular Route (Shuto Expressway C1) and exit at Ginza. Follow the signs towards Ginza, and proceed along Harumi-dori Avenue. The Ginza Mitsukoshi New Building is located at 4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo. Once you reach the area, you will find the building on the corner of Harumi-dori Avenue and Namiki-dori Street. Look for the Mitsukoshi Department Store and proceed to the 9th floor for the museum entrance.
Parking Information
Ginza Mitsukoshi’s parking lot is located on the 4th basement floor. Visitors to the museum can receive a parking service ticket for one hour of free parking (or one and a half hours for the Nishi Ginza parking lot). Additional free parking time is available depending on the amount spent at the museum shop: one hour for purchases over 2,000 JPY, two hours for purchases over 5,000 JPY, and four hours for purchases over 30,000 JPY.
