Minami-Chita Beach Land in Mihama-cho, Chita District, Aichi, will be hosting a series of special events to mark World Otter Day — observed on the last Wednesday of May — starting May 23, 2026. The events center around the park's Asian small-clawed otters, including a keeper-guided experience and a panel exhibition.
Otter Guide
Visitors can watch the Asian small-clawed otters as they eat, while a keeper provides commentary on breeding, parenting behavior, and the growth of the babies born in February 2026. Each session participant will receive a limited-edition pin badge featuring the baby otter design (50 badges per session, while supplies last).
Dates: May 23 (Saturday), May 24 (Sunday), and May 27 (Wednesday), 2026
Location: Asian Small-Clawed Otter Pool, Minami-Chita Beach Land
Time:
- May 23 (Sat) and May 24 (Sun): 11:40 AM (approximately 10 minutes per session)
- May 27 (Wed): 12:00 PM (approximately 10 minutes per session)
Panel Exhibition: "Sukusuku Kawauso Diary"
A panel exhibition tracing the growth of two Asian small-clawed otters born on February 6, 2026. On display are rare photos taken shortly after birth alongside daily observation records kept by the keepers.
Period: May 23 (Saturday) – June 14 (Sunday), 2026
Location: Marine Hall, Minami-Chita Beach Land
About World Otter Day
World Otter Day falls on the last Wednesday of May and was established by the International Otter Survival Fund. The day aims to raise awareness about the endangered status of wild otter species and the importance of their conservation. Facilities around the world hold events on this occasion to spread knowledge about otter conservation efforts.
For more details, visit the Minami-Chita Beach Land official website.
