Dinosaurs Appear at Aquarium!? Toba Aquarium to Host Summer Exhibition 'Jurassic Aquarium' from July 18, Featuring Real Fossil of Locally Discovered 'Tobaryu' Dinosaur

Toba Aquarium in Toba City, Mie Prefecture (President: Fumuya Nakamura) will host the special summer exhibition 'Jurassic Aquarium: Ancient Creatures of Toba' from Saturday, July 18, 2026, to Sunday, September 27, 2026. This edutainment event offers visitors of all ages a unique blend of learning and excitement, featuring the special display of the real fossil of the sauropod dinosaur 'Tobaryu,' discovered locally in Toba City. The exhibition also includes live displays of four types of ancient fish and large reptiles that have existed since the Cretaceous period, such as the approximately 1.5-meter-long 'Nile monitor lizard,' often described as a 'modern dinosaur.' Additionally, humorous digital simulations explore the theme 'What if Toba Aquarium kept dinosaurs?' using cutting-edge digital technology.

【Period】July 18, 2026 (Sat) – September 27, 2026 (Sun)

【Location】Special Exhibition Room and other areas within the aquarium

【Admission】Included with regular admission (some events may require additional fees)

1. Live Exhibits Evoking Ancient Times

Exhibits include the Nile monitor lizard, along with other ancient species such as bichirs and African lungfish that have survived since the age of dinosaurs. Please note that exhibits and events may be subject to change or cancellation due to animal conditions or other circumstances.

Powerful Nile Monitor Lizard

'Living fossil' African Lungfish

2. Must-See Fossils and Replicas of Ancient Creatures

The exhibition showcases the real fossil of the sauropod dinosaur 'Tobaryu,' discovered in Toba, as well as ammonite fossils from the region—items not normally on display at Toba Aquarium. Also featured is a 1/5-scale full skeletal reconstruction of 'Wakayamasaurus,' a large marine reptile discovered in Wakayama Prefecture, adding excitement to the venue.

Fossil of Tobaryu's tail vertebra

Ammonites discovered in the mountains of Toba

Full skeletal reconstruction of Wakayamasaurus

3. What If Dinosaurs Lived at Toba Aquarium?

Humorous digital simulations imagine how Toba Aquarium might have cared for dinosaurs if these ancient creatures had survived to the present day.

Three types of videos available

4. Limited-Edition Goods and Ice Cream Launch!

Exclusive merchandise featuring original illustrations by renowned dinosaur artist 'Keta'—including stickers and acrylic keychains—will be sold in limited quantities. The aquarium's restaurant 'Bayside' will offer the 'Abnormally Coiled Ammonite Soft Serve,' inspired by the unique spiral shells of ammonites. This refreshing blend of apple mango and vanilla is perfect for summer and a feast for the eyes. [Location]: Bayside Restaurant [Price]: ¥800 (tax included)

The 'abnormally coiled' design is a special touch

Collaboration goods with Keta and Toba Aquarium

5. Family Fossil Excavation Experience

In cooperation with the Toba Dinosaur Research Promotion Association, a fossil excavation experience for families is planned for three days only. Using hammers and brushes, participants will enjoy the thrill of a treasure hunt as they uncover fossils. Advance reservations are required; please check Toba Aquarium's official website for details. *Excavated fossils cannot be taken home as they are used for research purposes. Thank you for your understanding.

For Media Inquiries

Toba Aquarium welcomes media coverage of the exhibition starting July 18.

We invite you to cover the background of the initiative, on-site efforts, and insights from staff. The exhibition space will be completed shortly before opening.

・Inquiries | Contact

Toba Aquarium Co., Ltd. (3-3-6 Toba, Toba City, Mie Prefecture) Planning & Public Relations Office

0599-25-2555 (Main)

・President Fumuya Nakamura

About Toba Aquarium

Opened in 1955, Toba Aquarium is a large-scale facility located on the coast of Ise-Shima National Park in Toba City, Mie Prefecture. The aquarium's 12 exhibition zones allow visitors to observe unique marine life from around the world, including the dugong—the only one in Japan—and sea otters. With attractions such as seal shows and backstage tours, the aquarium caters to diverse visitor needs. Today, it strives to become the 'happiest aquarium in the world,' creating experiences loved by visitors of all ages.

Official Website: https://www.aquarium.co.jp/