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Kamo Aquarium

Tsuruoka, Japan

Marvel at the world's largest collection of jellyfish, including more than 10,000 undulating moon jellies. 

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The world's largest jellyfish collection is tucked away in a relatively small Japanese city. Scott Edmunds / CC by 2.0
The world's largest jellyfish collection is tucked away in a relatively small Japanese city. Scott Edmunds / CC by 2.0
Jellyfish have been on Earth for more than 500 million years. jhweller (Atlas Obscura User)
The exterior of the aquarium is quite striking. Totti / CC by 4.0
Scott Edmunds / CC by 2.0
More than 10,000 moon jellies swim in one massive tank here. https://www.flickr.com/photos/30557460@N05...
The Kamo Aquarium's jellyfish collection is unparalleled. jhweller (Atlas Obscura User)
Thousands of moon jellies undulate in unison. Scott Edmunds / CC by 2.0
Behold, the wondrous invertebrates of the sea. jhweller (Atlas Obscura User)
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Tucked away in a fairly rural area of Japan lies the world’s largest collection of jellyfish. Kamo Aquarium which is located near to moderate-sized city of Tsuruoka in Yamagata, is home to 60 species of these invertebrates. The aquarium is recognized by the Guinness World Records. 

By far the most impressive feature is the Jellyfish Dream Theater, a five-meter tank with approximately 10,000 moon jellies drifting in the saline water. Dramatic backlighting makes from especially haunting photographs.

Visitors can also check out the onsite laboratory used for breeding jellyfish. Check out the small jellies underneath a microscope. While jellyfish are certainly the main draw, there are also several species of octopus, rays, and seals, which perform in regularly scheduled shows. At the end of your visit, swing by the restaurant, which has jellyfish on the menu.

Know Before You Go

There is no onsite parking and it can get quite busy.

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