A special exhibition titled "Shells: The Connection Between AQUARIUM × ART átoa and Us" is set to open at AQUARIUM × ART átoa in Kobe's Chuo Ward on Saturday, March 28, 2026, running through Sunday, April 26, 2026.
Shells have long played a role in human life, influencing food culture and traditions across many generations. The exhibition introduces the connections between shellfish, the aquarium, and people through three lenses: the work of the aquarium, food, and culture.
Shells and AQUARIUM × ART átoa
The first section focuses on the relationship between shells and the aquarium, organized around three themes: "Shells That Work Hard as Tank Cleaners," "Shells That Become Food for the Animals," and "An Inherited Shell Specimen Collection."
A gathering of shell species responsible for keeping the tanks clean will be on display, offering visitors a chance to learn about the behind-the-scenes work these creatures do. Also on show are shells used as animal feed, and a collection of inherited shell specimens arranged on shelves.
Shells and People
The second section explores the relationship between shells and human culture, covering three themes: "Food – Four Surprisingly Tasty Shells Handpicked by a Shell-Allergic Keeper," "Try Playing 'Kai-awase,' a Game of the Heian Aristocracy," and "Kobe and Shells – Kobe, the Birthplace of the Shell Button Industry in Japan."
A keeper who has a shellfish allergy has selected four varieties of shellfish said to be surprisingly delicious, with serving suggestions introduced for each. An interactive corner inside the exhibition booth lets visitors play a handmade version of kai-awase crafted by the keepers. This game, which originated among the aristocracy of the Heian period, is available to enjoy firsthand.
Kobe is considered the city where the shell button industry first took root in Japan. The exhibition presents the history of the domestic shell button industry, along with three types of shells used as raw materials and shell products made from them.
Related Event: "Kai-awase Tournament"
Kai-awase is a traditional game using clam shells that spread among the aristocracy in the latter part of the Heian period. During this related event, visitors can compete against AQUARIUM × ART átoa keepers in a kai-awase match using the handmade set created by staff. Beyond learning about traditional Japanese culture, participants may also get to hear behind-the-scenes stories about the animals from the keeper opponents.
- Dates: Saturday, March 28 and Sunday, March 29, 2026
- Venue: 3F FOYER, AQUARIUM × ART átoa
- Start time: 3:00 PM each day
- Participation fee: Free (separate admission to AQUARIUM × ART átoa required)
Limited-Edition "Fish Seal" Stamp for the Shells Exhibition
A special shells exhibition design of the popular fish seal stamp — a popular keepsake for visitors — will be available for purchase during the exhibition period only.
- Sales period: Saturday, March 28 to Sunday, April 26, 2026
- Sales location: 3F átoa LAB Shop
- Price: ¥400 (tax included)
Exhibition Overview
- Period: Saturday, March 28 to Sunday, April 26, 2026
- Venue: 3F FOYER, AQUARIUM × ART átoa
- Admission: Free (separate admission to AQUARIUM × ART átoa required)
- Exhibits: Live specimens (Cypraea tigris, Strombus luhuanus, Chlorostoma species), explanatory panels, shells used as animal feed, inherited shell specimen collection, kai-awase hands-on experience
Note: Exhibited specimens may be changed without notice depending on the condition of the animals.
Access
- Address: 7-2 Shinko-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0041
- From Sannomiya Station: approximately 18-minute walk south (about 1.4 km)
- Official website: https://atoa-kobe.jp
