Kamo Aquarium, located in Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture, boasts one of the world's largest jellyfish exhibits, offering visitors a fantastic moment. However, jellyfish are not its only attraction. There are many places in the surrounding area where visitors can enjoy nature, history, and local delicacies. Today, we will introduce the charm of Kamo Aquarium as well as 10 recommended spots in the surrounding area. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
Attractions of Kamo Aquarium
1. jellyfish exhibit (Jellyfish Dream Theater)
jellarium
The Jellyfish Dream Theater, the centerpiece of Kamo Aquarium, displays about 60 species of jellyfish. The beauty of the giant tank “Jellyfisharium” (see photo) is particularly breathtaking. Many visitors are soothed by the sight of illuminated jellyfish drifting about.
Sea lion show and petting area
In addition to jellyfish, the sea lion show is also popular. The performances of these adorable sea lions are fun for children and adults alike. In addition, children can touch starfish and sea urchins at the petting area, providing learning and fun for children who visit.
3. jellyfish ramen and jellyfish jelly
At the museum's restaurant, visitors can enjoy unique “jellyfish ramen” and “jellyfish jelly” made from jellyfish. The jellyfish's crunchy texture makes it a unique dish that can only be tasted here.
4. holy place for lovers
The aquarium is also notable for its location overlooking the Sea of Japan. The Sea of Japan stretches out before your eyes, showing its seasonal expressions, and the beauty of the sunset is especially impressive.
The Lover's Sanctuary is also a popular photo spot. Please go and see the real thing for yourself 💕
Recommended Spots in the Area
5.Hakusan-jima Island
Hakusan Shrine, a floating shrine in the sea
Hakusan Island, also known as the “Aegean Sea of the Sea of Japan,” can be easily visited via a walking trail.
At the top of 200 steps on the island stands the Hakusan Shrine, a floating shrine in the sea.
Visitors can enjoy the rich natural scenery while worshipping at the shrine. On a fine day, you can see Mt. Chokai over the horizon.
Hakusan-jima Island, the symbol of Yura Beach
6.Roadside Station Atsumi (Sharin)
Atsumi (Sharin) Roadside Station, where you can find fresh seafood and local specialties, is a great place to eat and look for souvenirs. The outdoor food court is especially popular, selling local seafood and processed foods, as well as a variety of standing noodle and ice cream stands, where you can enjoy the tastes of Shonai.
Going around to the back side of the building, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan, and in the evening, you can see the sunset on the horizon.
Roadside Station Atsumi (Sharin)
7. zenpo-ji temple
The most distinctive feature of Zempo-ji Temple is its belief in the dragon god. The “Ryuoden” (dragon god) is enshrined in the precincts of the temple, and fishermen visit the temple to pray for safety at sea and bountiful catches of fish. Visitors can feel the deep history of Zenpo-ji Temple and the local culture by experiencing the legend of the dragon god that has continued since ancient times.
Matchmaking with the dragon god. Zenpoji Temple’s charm and 10 surrounding spots
8. oyama Kami-ike and Shimo-ike Ponds
oyama Kami-ike and Shimo-ike Ponds, designated as national scenic spots, are spots of outstanding natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy strolling while listening to the chirping of birds and the sound of trees swaying in the wind.
This beautiful pond is filled with lotus flowers in summer and swans in winter. It is also nice that a small hut for bird watching is open to the public free of charge.
9. nezameya hanbe
A long-established barley cutter and fresh soba noodle shop with a history of 120 years.
The restaurant's menu offers only two types of soba: barley cut and raw.
The store is so famous that people say “hanbe” when they think of mugikiri, and is so popular that customers come not only from the local area but also from outside the prefecture.
10.konpirasou
Open only during the winter season, Kotohiraso is a popular ramen restaurant that attracts ramen lovers from all over Japan. In particular, the combination of the deep broth and homemade noodles is superb, and it is no wonder that people line up to try it.
The owner, Mr. Kakegami, is a proud celebrity of Tsuruoka, having been featured on Jounetsu Tairiku (Continent of Passion)!
At the end.
Kamo Aquarium is famous throughout Japan as a jellyfish aquarium, and is an undisputed favorite.
We hope you will also enjoy the whole of the Tsuruoka and Shonai regions of Yamagata Prefecture by visiting the recommended spots in the area.
Not only nature and spots, but also the food.
Summer Only ♦Shonai Airport Shuttle Bus Service
Finally, shuttle buses are available only during the busy summer season.
The surrounding roads and parking lots of the aquarium are very crowded, especially on weekends, during GW and summer vacation periods. We recommend using the shuttle bus.
Shonai Airport Shuttle Bus Service
Guest House Watausagi is a popular inn for guests who like temples, shrines, and power spots.
This guest house is located right between Dewa Sanzan Shrine and Zenpoji Temple.
People who are interested in nature, mountain worship, and dragon gods gather from all over the country and around the world.
I hope you will enjoy visiting power spots using Guest House Watausagi as your base .
Click here for a map of recommended spots around Watausagi
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