Nakagawa Aquatic Park

This is the only aquarium in Tochigi Prefecture and the largest river aquarium in Japan, featuring approximately 60 tanks. The aquarium houses creatures from the Naka River, the clearest river in the Kanto region which flows through Tochigi Prefecture; also featured are species from as far as the Amazon River, the Great Barrier Reef, a coral reef in Australia. 20,000 fish of 300 species are displayed here. Interestingly, they also collect fish from famous tourist spots such as Lake Chuzenji, allowing visitors to learn more about those areas from a different perspective.

One of the most spectacular exhibits is the circular visible tube, a large tunnel shaped tank which recreates the Amazon River. You will feel like you are at the bottom of the Amazon River as you watch the piranhas, arapaima, and 100 other Amazonian creatures swim past above your head.

The Park also has ponds for where can cast a fishing line or catch fish by hand. A variety of events are provided too. The Park has a plaza with seasonal flowers and playground equipment, making it a fun place for the whole family. For a break after these fun times, don’t miss the Amazon Cafe or the traditional soba noodle shop Yuzukami. Once you enjoy it all, stop by the museum store or the fresh local vegetable stand to pick up some souvenirs to take home!