Wakkanai Noshappu Aquarium

Located at Cape Noshappu, the westernmost point of Wakkanai, Noshappu Aquarium is Japan's northernmost aquarium. It houses and exhibits approximately 1,300 creatures across around 120 species, primarily showcasing marine life adapted to the cold northern seas, such as fish and seals.

The aquarium's centerpiece is a massive 90-ton tank displaying northern fish like the elusive Sakhalin taimen (Ito), rockfish, flounder, and Atka mackerel, allowing visitors to observe their natural behaviors up close. Popular interactive features include the "Touch Pool," where guests can directly touch creatures like starfish and crabs, and exhibits featuring clione, often referred to as "angels of drift ice."
During summer, many visitors gather to enjoy feeding shows called "Seal and Penguin Mealtime," where spotted seals skillfully perform tricks with balls and other props.

Adjacent to the aquarium is the Wakkanai Youth Science Museum, together known affectionately as "Wakkarium." A shared admission fee grants access to both facilities, including science exhibits and the planetarium. Visitors looking to enjoy the famous sunset views at Cape Noshappu should check the aquarium’s notice board for daily sunset times.