This ranking introduces the best aquariums in Japan for seeing butterflyfish, based on the number of species kept and the rarity of specimens on display.
Aquariums that keep rare, hard-to-maintain coral-feeding species over the long term are ranked especially highly.
Note: the butterflyfish listed here may not always be on display — some may be temporarily off exhibit due to illness or other reasons. Information may be outdated, so please verify with the aquarium before visiting.
Aquamarine Fukushima in Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture is the top aquarium for seeing butterflyfish. It houses a massive "Coral Reef Sea" tank with many hard-to-keep coral-eating species such as Chevron butterflyfish and Eightband butterflyfish — rarely seen at other aquariums in Japan.
Tokyo Sea Life Park in Edogawa, Tokyo features themed tanks from seas around the world. Its Red Sea tank is home to species found nowhere else in Japan, including Bluecheek butterflyfish, Diagonal butterflyfish, and Red Sea bannerfish.
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in northern Okinawa is world-famous for its giant whale shark tank. A large reef tank near the entrance is filled with living corals and a variety of tropical butterflyfish from Okinawan waters.
Sunshine Aquarium in Ikebukuro, Tokyo has a well-curated butterflyfish collection in its coral reef exhibit, making it one of the best spots in Tokyo for seeing diverse species.
Kamogawa Sea World in Kamogawa, Chiba is known for its orca and dolphin shows, but also maintains a solid collection of butterflyfish in its tropical reef exhibits.
Toba Aquarium in Toba, Mie Prefecture keeps a diverse range of marine life including several butterflyfish species in beautifully designed exhibits.
Marine World Uminonakamichi in Fukuoka features a unique feeding presentation for its butterflyfish that sets it apart from other aquariums.
This ranking covers seven recommended aquariums for seeing butterflyfish in Japan. We hope it helps you plan your next aquarium visit!
