#Japan #Tokyo #Sunshine Aquarium #Zokuzoku Deep Sea #Deep Sea Creatures

Explore the Depths: Zokuzoku Deep Sea 2026

The much-loved "Zokuzoku Deep Sea Creatures" series is celebrating its 10th edition! From January 16 to May 10, 2026, the Sunshine Aquarium in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, invites everyone to experience the mysterious world of deep-sea biology through its flagship event. This year’s theme, "The Journey So Far," will showcase remarkable creatures from previous events, inviting visitors to discover their intricate and often bizarre life forms.

Deep-sea ecosystems are typically found at depths exceeding 200 meters, where conditions are harsh and life is scarce. The Sunshine Aquarium has established itself as a beacon for deep-sea exploration and understanding. Since 2017, it has offered annual winter exhibitions to unveil the enigmas of marine life at these remarkable depths. For this milestone 10th event, guests will enjoy an extended viewing period to accommodate increased interest.

Exciting Offerings for 2026

The event will feature many activities, including:

• - Deep Sea Soup: Savor a unique soup made from underutilized fish, a delicacy that highlights species often disregarded in culinary contexts due to size and availability. Special high-end offerings, such as the rare Akazae Bi, which can fetch up to 2000 yen each, will tantalize taste buds.
• - Hands-on Events: A chance to physically interact with deep-sea creatures through guided touch tours and exclusive access to collection efforts, which will include living specimens displayed in special tanks.
• - Guest Talks: Renowned personalities from marine biology and comedy, including Masaki Hirai from Danjyuburanko, will host discussions sharing insights into enchanting marine life.

Major Exhibits Highlighted

Anticipate the return of popular exhibits that grace the aquarium’s past events, like the Midori Fusa Ankou and Takashishigani. Visitors will also witness exclusive displays, including the world’s only plastination specimen of the Yokozuna Iwashi and rare frozen specimens with potential new species.

Engaging Educational Experiences

This year includes an interactive exploration of lesser-known marine species. There will be a special "deep-sea touch" area where visitors can see and touch live and frozen deep-sea organisms. Additionally, the aquarium will provide insights into its underwater drone investigations and groundbreaking care records from its late Mendako specimen—setting a new standard in keeping these elusive creatures.

In keeping with sustainability efforts, the deep-sea soup will use both popular and underutilized species to educate visitors on the importance of this often-overlooked seafood.

Event Details

• - Dates: January 16 - May 10, 2026 (with special segments running from January 16 to March 12, and from March 13 to May 10)
• - Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM)
• - Tickets: Admission fees reflect standard Sunshine Aquarium pricing with some premium experiences available for purchase separately.
• - Location: Sunshine Aquarium, World Import Mart Building, Rooftop, 3-1 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo
• - More information can be found on their website.

What's new this 10th Event?

The momentum builds as this event introduces exclusive merchandise alongside the exhibition, including unique slippers and keychains featuring deep-sea characters.

With attractions that appeal to all ages, Zokuzoku Deep Sea 2026 offers not just a spectacle, but a deep dive into the ways we understand oceanic life. The Sunshine Aquarium is excited to unveil these engaging experiences, ensuring visitors leave with newfound knowledge and appreciation for some of the planet's most alien and breathtaking creatures.