What this is
Now in its fourth consecutive year, this collaboration transforms Aqua World Oarai into a Sumikko Gurashi-themed aquarium experience running through the summer holidays. This year's theme is 'Shippozu and the Sea Tails Exhibition,' weaving the beloved San-X characters into real marine animal education about tails. A quiz rally runs throughout the aquarium, with completers receiving a random soft can badge from three designs, while the café serves character-inspired food and drinks — each collaboration drink comes with a random coaster from six designs.
Who should go
Families with young children and Sumikko Gurashi fans of any age. The quiz rally format makes it particularly engaging for kids who are already visiting the aquarium.
Good to know
Aqua World Oarai is a large public aquarium in Ibaraki Prefecture — admission tickets can typically be purchased at the venue box office or in advance via convenience store terminals such as Lawson Ticket or Seven-Eleven. Foreign credit cards are generally accepted at major aquarium ticket counters, but cash is safer for in-venue shops and cafés. The aquarium is one of Japan's larger facilities, so allow at least 2–3 hours. Collaboration merchandise and novelty badges are limited and distributed while supplies last — early arrival is strongly recommended, especially on weekends and during the Obon holiday period in mid-August. The venue has stroller-friendly facilities and is well suited to families with young children.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.