The Art Aquarium Museum in Ginza offers a mesmerizing blend of live goldfish, creative aquarium design, and immersive lighting. Each tank is presented like a living artwork, combining traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern art for a photogenic and unique experience. The museum is compact, making it easy to explore, but every section is thoughtfully arranged.
Location
The museum is on the 8th and 9th floors of the Ginza Mitsukoshi New Building.
Address: 4-6-16 Ginza, Chūō City, Tokyo
Access
Directly connected to Ginza Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza, Marunouchi, Hibiya lines)
Short walk from Higashi-Ginza Station (Toei Asakusa Line)
What's inside?
The museum features a variety of themed aquariums showcasing thousands of goldfish. Highlights include illuminated installations like the Oiran Aquarium, the towering Goldfish Pathway, the Show of kingyo and Goldfish Collection. The exhibits combine traditional Japanese motifs with modern light and sound effects for a unique, immersive experience.
Oiran Aquarium
Inspired by Edo-period courtesans with vibrant illumination.
Goldfish Pathway
Towering cylindrical tanks filled with shimmering goldfish.
Show of Kingyo
This installation features 24 square aquariums designed to let visitors admire goldfish from above, echoing the Edo-period tradition of viewing them in ceramic pots. The exhibit highlights the graceful silhouettes and rippling water patterns created as the fish swim.
Goldfish collection
The circular aquarium features rare breeds such as the Jumbo Oranda, known for its large size, and the Hamanishiki, a rare variety with pearl-like scales.
Tickets and Operating Hours
Hours: 10:00 – 19:00 (last entry at 18:00)
Closed: Irregular, check the official website before visiting
Admission: 2,300–2,500 yen (online), 2,700 yen (same-day)
Final Thoughts
I’ve visited several art museums in Japan, including the Open-Air Museum in Hakone and those in Ueno Park, but the Art Aquarium Museum is a unique experience that will always stay in my heart.
