The Sagami River is a 113-km long first-class river that flows from Lake Yamanaka, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, to the mouth of Sagami Bay on the border of Hiratsuka and Chigasaki cities. It is a "water-utilizing" river that supplies water to 60% of Kanagawa Prefecture's population, as well as a "fishing" river, particularly for ayu (sweetfish) fishing, which gives the river its other name, "Ayu River." It is also known as Sagami Country's "Mother River," and it has been closely intertwined with people's lives since ancient times. At this aquarium, visitors can become familiar with the Sagami River and learn about it.
The facility is in a historic area that was once thriving as an inn town for pilgrims to Daisen and is known for its scenic location on the Sagami River. The building appears to be floating on water, with a waterway spreading out in front of it. A 40-meter-long tank with fish from upstream to downstream, an outdoor facility that recreates the waterside, and an observation tank for small creatures are all worth seeing. The exhibits include about 100 different species of creatures.
Many interactive events are offered at the facility, such as ecological observation while feeding the fish and explanation while touching the creatures, so that visitors can enjoy "seeing," "touching," and "feeling."
Photo Credit: Sagami River Fureai Science Museum Aquarium Sagamihara
Highlights
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It displays approximately 100 different freshwater fish, amphibians, and aquatic insects that live in and around the Sagami River.
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Special exhibitions highlight the creatures' unique characteristics as well as the latest topics.
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It is also popular as a children's learning center, with many interactive events.
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Like its sister facilities such as the Enoshima Aquarium, this aquarium is renowned for its easy-to-see, modern exhibits.
