Visiting aquariums usually involves marveling at graceful dolphins or colorful fish, but Izu-Mito Sea Paradise (伊豆・三津シーパラダイス) in Shizuoka flips the script with one of Japan’s quirkiest family attractions: Ajikko Paradise (あじっこパラダイス).
This peculiar corner of the aquarium lets kids become…horse mackerels. Yes, you read that right. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live the entire bizarre journey of a fish—from being caught in the ocean to ending up as dinner—this is your chance to experience it through the eyes (and costume) of a humble horse mackerel.
Ajikko Paradise: A Fishy Role-Playing Experience You Didn’t Know You Needed
Ajikko Paradise isn’t just an activity—it’s an existential journey, with kids donning horse mackerel costumes to live out the life cycle of a fish.
Imagine the hilarity of seeing your child, dressed as a fish, leaping through the stages of “fish processing.”
Here’s the surreal step-by-step breakdown:
The Catch: Your little mackerel starts their adventure on a bouncy trampoline designed to mimic a turbulent ocean. Suddenly, “fishers” (giant nets) come into play. The kids? They get “caught” like the slippery prey they are.
The Cutting Board: Next, they’re whisked away to a padded cutting board, complete with oversized, soft kitchen knives. It’s all fun and games as kids wiggle around, pretending to be prepped for dinner. (Morbid? Maybe. Hilarious? Definitely.)
Hanging Out to Dry: Because every fish deserves a sunbath, kids are “hung out” in netting, simulating the drying process. It’s a playful nod to the local specialty, dried horse mackerel (himono).
Cooking Chaos: Things heat up as they bounce around on a massive frying pan cushion.
They’re “cooked,” turning this experience into the ultimate foodie fever dream.
Ready to Serve: The pièce de résistance: kids end their journey on a mock dinner table, posing as part of a plated meal. Cue the cameras and the giggles—this is peak social media fodder.
While it might sound like a surreal fever dream, Ajikko Paradise cleverly blends play with learning. The whole activity teaches kids about the lifecycle of food and fosters respect for the marine bounty that sustains us.
Explore Izu-Mito Sea Paradise
If playing a horse mackerel isn’t enough to hook you, the aquarium itself is worth exploring.
Known as one of Japan’s oldest aquariums, it features:
Historic Dolphin Performances: Izu-Mito was the pioneer of bottlenose dolphin exhibits in Japan, and the shows remain a staple of their lineup.
Penguin Encounters: “PenPara” lets visitors mingle with adorable penguins in a relaxed, naturalistic setting.
Marine Life Galore: From seals to sea otters, the aquarium showcases a variety of fascinating creatures.
Plan Your Visit
Location:
Izu-Mito Sea Paradise is in Numazu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, nestled between stunning views of Suruga Bay and Mt. Fuji.
Access:
- By Train: From Mishima Station, take the Izuhakone Railway to Izunagaoka Station, then hop on a 25-minute bus ride.
- By Car: It’s a 30-minute drive from the Numazu Interchange on the Tomei Expressway.
Admission Fees:
- Adults: ¥2,200
- Children (Ages 4–15): ¥1,100
- Seniors (65+): ¥1,700
Parking is available for ¥500 per vehicle.
Why Visit?
Izu-Mito Sea Paradise is a rare blend of the educational, the entertaining, and the downright bizarre. Whether you’re laughing at your child pretending to be a fish or enjoying the majestic marine life, this aquarium promises a truly unforgettable experience.
For updates and ticket info, visit their official website.
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