A private night tour is coming to Toba Aquarium in Mie Prefecture. On Saturday, August 29, 2026, the JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) Mie Branch (Branch Manager: Hisashi Kawakita) will host the "JAF Festival in Toba Aquarium Private Night Tour," renting out the aquarium for two hours after its regular hours.
A Rare Night-Time Look at Japan's Most Diverse Aquarium Collection
The JAF Festival is held for the enjoyment of JAF members. This time, the event takes place at Toba Aquarium, known for housing the widest variety of species of any aquarium in Japan, giving visitors an exclusive two-hour window from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Visitors can observe the animals' behavior during the night hours, which differs from what is seen during normal opening hours. Adult participants will also receive an original JAF Festival-branded tote bag, and children will be given snacks.
Event Details
Date and Time: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
*The Toba Aquarium parking lot opens at 6:30 PM.
*Last admission is at 8:00 PM.
Venue: Toba Aquarium (3-3-6 Toba, Toba City, Mie Prefecture)
Participation Fee: Adults (junior high school age and older): ¥1,500; Children (ages 3 to elementary school): ¥1,000; Infants (2 years and under): Free
Capacity: 300 people (lottery if applications exceed capacity; a minimum of 200 participants is required for the event to be held)
Participation Condition: At least one person in each group must be a JAF member
Application Deadline: Sunday, August 16, 2026, 11:00 PM
Application Method: Apply through the event page on the JAF website: https://area.jaf.or.jp/area/2026/06/chubu/mie/events/jaffestival_tobaaquarium?utm_campaign=24prtimes&utm_source=2026-017&utm_medium=referral
Notes:
- Viewing of the sea otters may be time-limited.
- Some areas may be inaccessible due to repair work.
- Some animals may not be on display depending on circumstances.
- No additional participants can be added after the application deadline.
- Re-entry is not permitted after leaving the aquarium.
- The event may be canceled on short notice in the event of severe weather.
