Notojima Aquarium

Perched on the shores of Notojima island in Nanao Bay, this aquarium specializes in Japan Sea marine life that visitors rarely encounter elsewhere. The highlight is one of Japan's few whale shark exhibits, alongside a penguin tunnel where the birds swim overhead, and a jellyfish gallery with artistic lighting. The location on Noto Island means far fewer crowds than big-city aquariums, and the surrounding Notojima coastline offers stunning views of the bay and Noto Peninsula.