Exploring Unique Opportunities at Sunshine Aquarium's Aquarium Club
The Sunshine Aquarium, located in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, is set to launch its new fan club program, the "Aquarium Club," starting January 2024. This initiative is designed to enhance the experience of fans and deepen connections with the aquarium. The club offers two levels of membership: the "Premium Plan" which allows members to fully enjoy the aquarium daily, and the "Standard Plan" which is perfect for families wishing to visit on weekdays.
Upcoming Events
In June 2025, the highly anticipated "Aquarium Club Premium Appreciation Festival" will take place over the weekend of June 14 and 15. Membership cards must be issued by the day before the event for participation. This festival is an exclusive gathering for Premium Plan members, offering a unique dive into the underwater world.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Aquarium Club and its offerings:
The Aquarium Club Plans
- - Premium Plan: Gain all-day access to the aquarium without reservations, enjoy discounts for guests, reduced entrance fees for other attractions (like the Sunshine 60 Observatory), and participate in members-only events. Special privileges also include early access to aquarium merchandise, parking services, and more.
- - Standard Plan: Ideal for casual visitors and families with young children, this plan allows access on designated weekdays with half-price admission on other days.
For more information on how to join the Aquarium Club, check the following video:
Join the Aquarium Club.
Exclusive Festival Insights
The Premium Appreciation Festival is a treasure trove of exclusive experiences that take attendees into the heart of the aquarium. Early on one of the event days last year, eager fans lined up before dawn to secure their spots at this intimate gathering of aquarium enthusiasts.
Once inside, guests enjoyed a wealth of programs designed to enhance their understanding and appreciation of aquatic life. A highlight was an exclusive early access tour of the aquarium, allowing participants to observe aquatic creatures in the rare stillness of a closed facility. Feedback indicated high satisfaction with this intimate experience.
Backstage Pass to Feeding Secrets
Another popular feature was a visit to the feeding area. Guests were thrilled to see the feeding preparations firsthand, with staff creating meals for the creatures. This unique behind-the-scenes experience, not usually open to the public, provided attendees with rare insights into the care of the aquarium's inhabitants.
Interactive Radio Broadcasts
A creative twist on the event included a radio-style broadcasting session where guests could listen and ask questions to aquarium staff. Positioned at the prominent "Sunshine Lagoon" tank, the talks allowed for an engaging Q&A experience, fostering a lively dialogue between fans and caretakers.
Deep Dive Discussions
Throughout the festival, staff members also led in-depth discussions about specific animals. From interactions at the "Sky Penguins" exhibit to communication with divers in the big tank, every interaction was designed to enrich visitors' knowledge and love for marine life.
Exciting Prizes Await
One of the festival's standout attractions was the popular “Exciting Lottery” offering unique prizes including animal parts, such as teeth and feathers. With limited quantities, this treasure hunt drew long lines as fans eagerly hoped to win special tokens that connected them even further to their favorite species.
A Celebration of Community
The Premium Appreciation Festival is not just an event; it’s a celebration of community, where the love for marine life is palpable. It presents an unparalleled opportunity to interact closely with the passionate individuals dedicated to the care of aquarium species. Attendees enjoy unique views, privileged discussions, and a deeper appreciation of the aquatic realm, ensuring smiles all around.
Looking ahead, the aquarium is already brainstorming fresh ideas for the next Premium Appreciation Festival. Excitement is building as fans and staff alike eagerly anticipate what’s to come in June 2025. Don't miss out on this special experience! Make sure your Premium Plan membership is active to gain access to this and future events. For more details, visit:
Aquarium Club Benefits.
For additional details about the aquarium itself:
- - Location: Sunshine City World Import Mart Building Rooftop, 3-1 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
- - Hours: From April 1, 2025, hours will be 10 AM - 7 PM (last admission 30 minutes before closing). Various admission fees apply.
- - Contact: Sunshine Aquarium at 03-3989-3466 or visit their website for the latest information.