If you are planning a trip to the scenic bay of Matsushima in Miyagi Prefecture, you may be searching for information regarding the local aquarium. Many travelers and long-time fans often ask about the status of the Marinepia Matsushima Aquarium. To provide a quick answer: the Marinepia Matsushima Aquarium is permanently closed. It ended its 88-year history in May 2015, leaving behind a legacy as one of Japan’s most beloved and oldest private aquariums.
While the original facility is no longer in operation, its spirit and many of its residents have moved to a new location nearby. This article explains why the aquarium closed, what happened to the animals, and where you can find the modern successor that continues the mission of the original Matsushima landmark.
The History of Marinepia Matsushima Aquarium
Marinepia Matsushima Aquarium opened its doors in 1927. At the time of its closure, it was the second oldest aquarium in Japan and the oldest private aquarium in the country. For nearly nine decades, it served as a primary attraction in the Matsushima area, which is famously known as one of the “Three Views of Japan.”
The aquarium was known for its nostalgic atmosphere and its focus on local marine life from the Sanriku coast. It survived several major events, including World War II and various natural disasters. Most notably, it survived the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami in 2011. Although the facility suffered damage and lost some of its fish due to power outages affecting life-support systems, the staff worked tirelessly to save the majority of the animals.
Despite its resilience, the age of the facility eventually became a primary concern. The buildings were nearly a century old, making it difficult to meet modern standards for animal care and earthquake resistance. After much deliberation, the management decided that rather than a costly renovation, a new facility would be built in a different location.
The Final Days and Closing in 2015
The Marinepia Matsushima Aquarium officially closed on May 10, 2015. The final weeks were marked by a massive surge in visitors who wanted to say goodbye to the iconic institution. On its final day, thousands of people gathered to watch the last performances and witness the closing ceremony.
The closure was an emotional event for the local community. For many residents of Miyagi Prefecture, the aquarium was a place of childhood memories, school trips, and family outings. The “Marinepia” brand was synonymous with the Matsushima tourism experience for generations.
What Happened to the Animals?
One of the biggest concerns during the closure was the welfare of the animals. Fortunately, a comprehensive plan was in place to relocate the residents. Most of the animals were moved to the newly constructed Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium, located in the Sendai Port area.
The relocation process was a major logistical undertaking. It included moving:
- African Penguins: A large colony of penguins was successfully transferred and now enjoys a modern habitat.
- Sea Lions and Seals: The popular performers from the Matsushima shows were moved to the new facility to continue their roles in educational presentations.
- Commerson’s Dolphins: These rare, black-and-white dolphins were a highlight of the old aquarium and remain a star attraction at the new site.
- Fish and Crustaceans: Thousands of smaller specimens were carefully transported in specialized tanks to ensure their safety during the move.
By moving the animals to a newer, state-of-the-art facility, the caretakers ensured they would receive better medical care and live in environments that more closely mimic their natural habitats.
The Successor: Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium
If you are looking for the “new” Matsushima Aquarium, you should head to the Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium. It opened in July 2015, just a few months after Marinepia closed. While it is not located in Matsushima itself, it is considered the spiritual and functional successor to the old aquarium.
Location and Access
The Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium is located in the Takadama district of Sendai, near the Sendai Port. It is easily accessible via the JR Senseki Line. Visitors can take a train to Rikuzen-Takadago Station, where a free shuttle bus often operates to take guests directly to the aquarium. It is approximately a 25-minute drive or train ride from the original Matsushima site.
Key Features
The new aquarium is significantly larger and more modern than its predecessor. Key features include:
- The Sparkle of Life Well: A massive tank that recreates the ecosystem of the Sanriku coast, featuring thousands of sardines swimming in unison.
- Stadium Shows: A large, open-air stadium for dolphin and sea lion performances with the Sendai skyline in the background.
- Interactive Zones: Areas where visitors can touch certain marine animals and learn about conservation efforts in the Tohoku region.
What Is at the Old Matsushima Site Now?
Many tourists still visit the original site in Matsushima out of habit or curiosity. After the aquarium was demolished, the land was redeveloped to enhance the local tourism infrastructure. Today, the site is home to Matsushima Rikyu.
Matsushima Rikyu is a multi-purpose complex that opened in 2020. It serves as a cultural and tourism hub, featuring:
- The Miyagi Prefecture Tourist Information Center: A helpful resource for planning your stay in the area.
- Museums and Workshops: Exhibits focused on the history of Matsushima and traditional crafts.
- Dining and Shopping: Restaurants serving local seafood and shops selling regional souvenirs.
- A Rooftop Garden: Offers beautiful views of the bay, reminiscent of the views visitors once enjoyed from the old aquarium’s upper levels.
While the tanks and animals are gone, the location remains a central part of the Matsushima walking tour, located just a short walk from the Matsushima-Kaigan Station.
Tips for Visiting the Area
If you were hoping to visit an aquarium during your trip to Matsushima, you can still have a wonderful experience by following these steps:
- Visit Sendai Umino-Mori First: If you are coming from Sendai City, stop at the new aquarium on your way to Matsushima. It takes about 2-3 hours to see everything.
- Use the JR Senseki Line: This train line connects Sendai Station, the Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium (via Rikuzen-Takadago), and Matsushima-Kaigan Station. It is the most convenient way to travel.
- Explore Matsushima Rikyu: Even without the aquarium, the old site at Matsushima Rikyu is worth a visit for its architecture and the “Matsushima Orgel Museum” (Music Box Museum) nearby.
- Check the Schedule: If you want to see the sea lions that moved from the old aquarium, check the performance schedule on the official Sendai Umino-Mori website before you go.
Conclusion
The closure of the Marinepia Matsushima Aquarium marked the end of an era, but it also paved the way for a more modern and sustainable future for marine education in Miyagi. While you can no longer visit the historic tanks in Matsushima, the legacy lives on at the Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium. Visitors today can enjoy the best of both worlds: the cutting-edge exhibits at the new aquarium and the timeless scenic beauty of the Matsushima bay area.
For more travel tips and guides on exploring the Tohoku region, feel free to browse our other articles on local attractions and transportation guides.