Kamo Aquarium 加茂水族館

Tucked away on Yamagata's Sea of Japan coastline—south of the region's most popular beach, Yunohama—is an aquarium with a remarkable story to match its exotic collection of sea creatures.

The aquarium is accessible by bus from Tsuruoka Station.

By bus, it takes approximately 40 minutes from Tsuruoka Station. Tsuruoka Station is on the JR Uetsu Line, 20 minutes south of Sakata.

Kamo Aquarium once faced bankruptcy, and it was forced to make drastic changes. The solution was to fill the aquarium with the largest collection of jellyfish in the world.

Over 60 varieties of jellyfish are presented in visually compelling tanks lit up to allow visitors to enjoy the range of colors and diverse features of these creatures. It is a relaxing spectacle that enhances the beauty of the translucent, mysterious specimens.

Do not be surprised if the aquarium is a little crowded when you visit. Despite its relative isolation, Kamo Aquarium receives over 500,000 visitors annually.

The jellyfish are not the only stars of the show. You will find sea lions and seals on the first floor, and crabs, octopus, and sharks on the second floor.

There is daily commentary of the adorable sea lions and seals, entertaining visitors from the 1st of April to the end of November.

In addition to admiring the jellyfish, visitors can eat them. Jellyfish are prepared for a wide range of dishes, from ice cream and manju steamed buns to ramen.

The latest information may differ, so please check the official website.