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Katsuura Undersea Park Underwater Observatory Tower
A natural “aquarium” where you can see Approx. 90 kinds of marine life year-round.
Along the coast of Katsuura on the Boso Peninsula in Chiba Prefecture, a 14.5-hectare stretch has been designated as Katsuura Marine Park, with the Underwater Observatory Tower at its center. Set 60 meters offshore, the tower stands Approx. 24 meters tall and reaches a depth of 8 meters, where visitors can observe Approx. 90 kinds of marine life year-round.
To reach the tower, you’ll walk along an open, breezy pier over the sea. From the pier, you can see wave-carved rock formations up close for an impressive view. Then, descend 96 steps down a spiral staircase into the underwater level. Through the tower’s windows, you can watch fish swimming freely—sometimes even sharks. If you’re lucky enough to catch feeding time, you may also see a huge school of fish.
There’s also an observation room above the water, with wall-to-wall glass windows overlooking Ubara Risokyo, Hachiman Cape, and the Katsuura Lighthouse. Admission is normally 980 yen for adults, but discounts are set based on the day’s water clarity. Check the official website for the latest visibility conditions.
Highlights
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An underwater observation tower—watch fish swimming freely right outside the windows.
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Approx. 90 kinds of marine life can be observed year-round, and you might even spot a shark.
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Admission changes depending on the day’s water clarity.
Photos
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An observation tower built 60 meters offshore
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Observe the underwater world as if you were a diver
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The view from the above-water observation room is also fantastic
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
A
Sorry, we don’t.
Q
Is there free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A
No.
Q
Are there coin lockers?
A
No.
Items can be stored at the ticket counter for 200 yen per item.
Q
Is re-entry allowed?
A
No.
Q
Is there a smoking area?
A
No.
Q
Can I enter with a dog or other pet?
A
Yes, as long as your pet is in a cage or carrier (with its entire body covered).
Q
Is there an elevator in the observation tower?
A
No. Access is by spiral staircase only.
Q
Are you open during the New Year holidays?
A
We’re open year-round. Operations may be suspended in severe weather.
Q
Is there parking?
A
There is a multi-story parking garage next to the Sea Museum. It can accommodate 160 standard cars and 7-9 buses.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- かつうら海中公園海中展望塔
- Postal Code
- 299-5242
- Address
- 174 Yoshio, Katsuura City, Chiba
- Phone
- 0470-76-2955
- Closed
- None *May close in severe weather
- Hours
- 9:00 am-5:00 pm (Reception closes at 4:30 pm)
- Admission
- Adults: 980 yen, Teens: 480 yen, Children: 220 yen *Discounts available depending on sea conditions
- Access
- Approx. 15 minutes on foot from JR “Ubara” Station
- Credit Cards
- Not accepted
- Official website
- Official website (Japanese)
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