Discover the Wildlife of Lake Hamana Up Close — Explore the Waterside World at Lake Hamana Aquarium Uotto

A Hands-On Aquarium Where Science Brings Lake Hamana to Life

Located on Bentenjima Island in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Lake Hamana Aquarium Uotto is an interactive learning facility where visitors can discover the nature and wildlife of Lake Hamana through fun, hands-on experiences.

The facility's concept is simple yet distinctive: "Exploring Lake Hamana Through Serious Science and Fun Discovery."

Lake Hamana is one of Japan's most unique brackish lakes, where seawater and freshwater mix together to create a rich ecosystem that supports a remarkable variety of aquatic life. At Uotto, visitors can observe fish and marine creatures found in Lake Hamana, the Miyakoda River, and the Enshu-nada coast while learning about their habitats and ecological relationships.

Many of the animals on display are supplied directly by local fishermen and fisheries connected to Lake Hamana. This gives visitors a rare opportunity to discover the species that actually inhabit the lake, offering a more authentic perspective than a typical aquarium experience.

More than simply observing marine life, Uotto encourages visitors to touch, interact with, and learn about the natural world firsthand.

Discover the Highlights of Lake Hamana Aquarium Uotto

1. Learn About Lake Hamana's Ecosystem Through Authentic Exhibits

One of Uotto's greatest attractions is its focus on the biodiversity of Lake Hamana and the surrounding region.

Inside the facility, a series of aquariums recreates the environments of Lake Hamana, nearby rivers, and the Enshu-nada coast. Visitors can observe species such as eels, Japanese sea bass, sharks, pufferfish, and many other creatures native to the area.

A particular highlight is the impressive main tank, which holds approximately 120 tons of water and extends up to five meters high in a sweeping curved design that reaches toward the ceiling. Filled with fish from Lake Hamana and the Enshu-nada coast, it creates the sensation of stepping directly into an underwater world.

Informative displays throughout the facility explain the characteristics of each species, their behavior, and their relationship with the local environment.

Rather than functioning solely as an aquarium, Uotto offers an engaging opportunity to learn about the natural ecosystems that shape this region of Japan.

2. Interactive Exhibits That Let You Touch and Learn

Uotto is also known for providing close encounters with aquatic life.

Inside the facility, visitors can enjoy the unique Touch Aquarium, a fascinating exhibit that allows guests to place their hands into the tank from the side without water spilling out, offering a chance to interact with tropical fish in an unusual way.

In the outdoor courtyard, the popular Touch Pool allows visitors to step barefoot into the shallow water and interact directly with aquatic creatures.

Experiencing the texture, movement, and behavior of animals firsthand provides insights that books and videos simply cannot replicate.

These hands-on exhibits are popular with both children and adults, making them a favorite part of the visit for families.

The opportunity to engage with Lake Hamana's wildlife through multiple senses creates memorable experiences that stay with visitors long after their trip.

3. Educational Programs and Keeper-Led Experiences

In addition to its exhibits, Uotto offers a variety of educational programs and special events.

Programs range from reservation-based workshops to drop-in activities, allowing visitors to deepen their understanding of aquatic life and local ecosystems.

Popular keeper-led programs include the "Big Aquarium Feeding Time," where visitors can observe large fish during feeding sessions, and the "Eel Feeding Time," which introduces one of Lake Hamana's most famous local specialties.

Listening to explanations directly from the aquarium staff provides valuable insights into the behavior of the animals and the environmental importance of Lake Hamana.

Because programs vary by date, checking the official website before visiting is recommended.

4. An Easy Addition to Your Lake Hamana Sightseeing Itinerary

Uotto is located in the Bentenjima area along the shores of Lake Hamana, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing activities in the region.

The facility is within walking distance of JR Bentenjima Station, making it accessible by both public transportation and car.

The surrounding area offers scenic lakeside views, hot spring facilities, and local restaurants, making Uotto an ideal stop during a family vacation or a day of sightseeing around Hamamatsu and Lake Hamana.

Another family-friendly feature is that admission is free for high school students and younger visitors.

A Place That Will Make You Appreciate Lake Hamana Even More

Lake Hamana Aquarium Uotto is more than a place to simply look at fish.

It is a place where visitors can learn about the creatures that inhabit Lake Hamana, interact with them directly, and gain a deeper understanding of the natural environment and culture that support this unique ecosystem.

Watching fish glide through the tanks, touching aquatic animals firsthand, and listening to the stories shared by aquarium staff all help bring Lake Hamana's natural world to life.

If you're visiting Hamamatsu or the Lake Hamana area, Uotto offers a memorable opportunity to experience what it means to "explore Lake Hamana through serious science and fun discovery."

Visitor Information

Name: Lake Hamana Aquarium Uotto

Address: 5005-3 Bentenjima, Maisaka-cho, Chuo-ku, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan

TEL: +81-53-592-2880

Access:

• Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Bentenjima Station

• Approximately 25 minutes by car from Hamamatsu Nishi IC on the Tomei Expressway

Parking: Available (Hamamatsu Municipal Nagisaen Parking Area)

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Last admission: 4:00 PM)

Admission: Adults: ¥400 High school students and younger: Free Seniors (70 years and older): Free

Closed: Mondays (or the following weekday if Monday is a national holiday) Year-end and New Year holidays Open daily during Golden Week and summer vacation periods.

Official Website:https://ulotto.entetsuassist-dms.com/

Please check the official website for the latest information regarding opening hours, admission fees, events, and educational programs.