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ART AQUARIUM 2019 – Dive Into A Dreamy World Of 10,000 Goldfish
ART AQUARIUM is held for the last time in 2019 in Tokyo's Nihonbashi area. This year's event brings back preceding works in addition to new exhibits with creativity and goldfish. Learn how to enjoy ART AQUARIUM 2019 from day to night and what to expect at this intriguing event!
ART AQUARIUM 2019: A Final Summer Event
Picture courtesy of Art Aquarium
Hosted every summer, ART AQUARIUM is a very popular event that has been held in Nihonbashi Mitsui Hall on the fifth floor of COREDO Muromachi 1 in Nihonbashi over the last ten years. 2019 will be the last time it is held at Nihonbashi Mitsui Hall.
ECO EDO Nihonbashi ART AQUARIUM 2019 (ART AQUARIUM 2019)’s theme is “Edo and the Coolness of Goldfish,” where visitors will feel refreshed by the sight of goldfish in an Edo-esque atmosphere. NIGHT AQUARIUM is also being held, where visitors can enjoy the event while enjoying adult beverages and musical performances.
Would you like to experience a whimsical world at the colorful summer event of ART AQUARIUM 2019?
What is ART AQUARIUM?
The ART AQUARIUM is produced by Hidetomo Kimura—the only art aquarium artist in the world. He created the design of the water tanks, their spatial composition, videos, and music. He also scrupulously oversees the livelihood of over 10,000 goldfish.
The aquarium is famous for its detailed design and high-quality production, fascinating many visitors with a stunning new underwater world.
Photographs are allowed in the venue so we recommend taking photos.
*Video, flash photography, and photos taken by tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks are prohibited. Please take pictures with either a phone or handheld camera.
ART AQUARIUM 2019 Highlights
Below are some of the things to look forward to at ART AQUARIUM 2019.
See Masterpieces from Previous Years
For 2019, three notable works—“Oiran,” “Ooku,” and “Super Oiran”—that were exhibited in previous years have returned to the event alongside new works. It’s a chance to see these preceding masterpieces all in one visit!
These three pieces are works of art inspired by women that vied for beauty in Edo society. The brilliance and fragility of these women are seemingly expressed through the goldfish and a giant goldfish bowl.
New Displays Brimming with Creativity
Aside from these past notable works, there are also numerous new pieces on display.
Appearing for the first time this year is the “Lotusrium.” Creating an enchanting ambiance, white goldfish can be seen leisurely swimming inside a gigantic lotus-shaped goldfish bowl measuring over four meters in size.
The “Jacuzzirium” is also a first-time exhibit at the Nihonbashi venue. This is a unique bathtub-type aquarium that allows you to admire the goldfish while bathing.
Cute Goldfish-Themed Sweets
At the Kingyo Cafe, located just outside the venue, you’ll also find goldfish-themed sweets. The cafe has a selection of photogenic desserts you’ll be eager to capture in photos, including the refreshing Goldfish Bowl Jelly (700 yen before tax) and the Sarasa Goldfish Roll Cake (400 yen before tax).
Attend Special Events! The NIGHT AQUARIUM
Picture courtesy of Art Aquarium
The ART AQUARIUM operates as the NIGHT AQUARIUM after 19:00. The aquarium completely changes from how it looks during the daytime, transforming into a relaxing space where you can admire the event while having drinks.
Left: Ranchu / Right: Ping Pong Pearl 1,500 yen each; Picture courtesy of Art Aquarium
Kingyo Bar, located inside the venue, offers a plethora of original aquarium cocktails, Japanese sake, and soft drinks.
During the weekends, there are DJ performances by artists from around the world, which allows you to enjoy an extraordinary environment with a drink in hand.
Picture courtesy of Art Aquarium
Oiran Night, where you can watch captivating oiran (high-class courtesans) dance, will be held on September 10 (Tues), 11 (Wed), and 13 (Fri). (3,000 yen with tax; tickets must be purchased beforehand at Seven-Eleven convenience stores).
This luxurious and gorgeous show is a must-see. You’ll find yourself immersed in a wondrous atmosphere that will feel as if you’ve strayed off into the pleasure quarters of the Edo period.
Wear a Yukata to the Aquarium for More Fun
Photo by pixta
If you wish to create an experience with a lasting memory, we recommend wearing a yukata (a summer kimono).
The ART AQUARIUM Yukata Station ticket (3,240 yen with tax) is a priority entry pass into the aquarium that also comes with a yukata dress-up service. If you bring a yukata with you, the staff can help you get dressed at the venue.
If you don’t own a yukata, then head to Kyoraku TEI Yukata Station located on the third floor of the neighboring COREDO Muromachi 3. This is another great option because you'll be able to rent a yukata (5,500 yen with tax) here. (Open every Saturday until September 21).
Take a photo with the goldfish to capture a great shot.
Create Summer Memories at ART AQUARIUM 2019
Visit the Art Aquarium for a memorable trip to enjoy the elaborately-designed art exhibitions, tasty sweets, and a night aquarium. This is a chance to enjoy a unique seasonal event in Tokyo.
ECO EDO Nihonbashi ART AQUARIUM 2019
Official Website: http://artaquarium.jp/en/
Event Period: July 5 (Friday) – September 23 (Monday, national holiday), 2019. There are no holidays during the event
Hours: Sunday – Friday 11:00 – 22:30 (final entry at 22:00)
Saturday and the day before national holidays 11:00 – 23:30 (final entry at 23:00)
ART AQUARIUM 11:00 – 19:00; NIGHT AQUARIUM starts at 19:00; abides by the above schedule for each day
Entrance Fee
Adult (junior high school and above) - 1,000 yen
Children (4 years old – below elementary school age) - 600 yen
Free for those 3 years old and younger
Tickets: Sold on Seven Ticket, at multifunction machines in 7-Eleven storefronts, and at the ART AQUARIUM venue
In cooperation with Art Aquarium
Junior university student