#Japan #Kamogawa #Granvista #Kamo Aquarium #Smile Contest

Kamo Aquarium's Year-End Smile Contest 2026

As we approach the New Year, Kamo Aquarium, operated by Granvista Hotel & Resort, is excited to announce its long-awaited annual event, the "Smile Contest with Sea Lions." This year marks the 24th occurrence of this festive celebration, which runs from December 19, 2025, to January 13, 2026. During this period, visitors can capture memorable moments with the cheerful sea lions and enter the smile contest for a chance to win fantastic prizes.

The contest is designed for participants who join the "Cheerful Sea Lion Photo Experience." It invites everyone to show off their brightest smiles, competing against those of the delightful sea lions. Traditionally held from January 1 to the end of January, the event is being adjusted this year due to scheduled maintenance at the Rockie Stadium beginning January 15. This change allows families and friends to enjoy a spirited start to their year during the holiday season.

Contest Overview

Participants in the Smile Contest with Sea Lions must first purchase a ticket for the "Cheerful Sea Lion Photo Experience." This ticket allows up to five members together for a cost of 1,500 yen. Here’s how to get involved:

1. Purchase Your Experience Ticket: You can buy tickets through the Kamo Aquarium online service, opt for a plan that includes the photo experience with accommodation at the Kamo Aquarium Hotel, or buy directly on the day at designated locations inside the aquarium, subject to availability.
2. Capture Your Smile: Participants then engage in the photo experience, where staff will happily photograph you with the sea lions, ensuring everyone is smiling brightly.
3. Enter the Contest: After taking your photo, enter the competition using one of two methods - either scan a QR code from installed signs around the venue to access the Google form or fill out an entry sheet at the photo corner.
4. Winners Announcement: After the contest ends, winners will be selected for three prizes based on their submissions and announced on the aquarium's official homepage and social media channels.

Prizes

Winners can look forward to exciting rewards:

• - Best Smile Award (1 recipient)

- An invitation for a stay at the Kamo Aquarium Hotel for up to four people in a single room with specific blackout dates.
- Complimentary access to the "Evening Aquarium Exploration" and "Morning Aquarium Walk" events on their stay.

• - Runner-Up Smile Awards (3 recipients)

- Plush Sea Lion toys.

• - Good Smile Awards (5 recipients)

- Free tickets for the popular Orca Prize Draw, giving participants a chance to win plush prizes.

• - Participation Prize

- Each group that submits an entry will receive a special sticker featuring the cheerful sea lion!

Note: All vouchers and free tickets will be valid until July 17, 2026. Also, please be prepared for potential lines during the events due to attendance.

Kamo Aquarium invites everyone to gather their loved ones and head down to create joyful memories this festive season. As the saying goes, "Good fortune comes in smiling doors!" Let’s make the New Year filled with smiles at Kamo Aquarium!

For more information, tickets, and event details, you can visit the Kamo Aquarium website.

About Granvista Hotel & Resort

Founded in 1958, Granvista Hotel & Resort has become a pioneer in Japan's hospitality industry, offering a wide range of accommodations including city hotels, business hotels, hot spring inns, and marine leisure facilities across the country. As the main facility, Kamo Aquarium is part of this growing family, dedicated to providing memorable experiences and fostering a connection with nature and marine life.

Location: Kamo Aquarium, 464-18 Higashimachi, Kamogawa City, Chiba, Japan.
Phone: 04-7093-4803
Official Website: Kamo Aquarium