Applying Names to Numbers Beloved by Staff: Adventure World Seeks Names for 19 Emperor Penguins

In April 2026, emperor penguins were officially designated as an endangered species. Adventure World (Shirahama, Wakayama), which holds one of Japan's most prominent breeding records, is launching the '38℃ MIRACLE Project' to contemplate the future of our planet through the lives of these creatures.

As the first step of this project, starting June 1, 2026, the park will accept submissions for names for all 19 emperor penguins residing at the facility. By overlaying names submitted by guests onto the 'identification numbers' that represent the evidence of how staff have cared for each individual's personality, a new naming action will begin to spread the preciousness of life across the world.

Background: Why collect names now?

In the minus 60℃ extreme cold, emperor penguins huddle together to survive. The interior of the huddle is filled with warmth of around 38℃, contrasting with the outside air. Each individual takes turns, protecting the heat as a group. That devotion is the wisdom that preserves their '38℃ life.' However, more than half of the world's penguins are currently facing the threat of extinction due to environmental changes.

At our park, which has an industry-leading breeding record, 460 penguins of eight species live as the 'front line of species conservation.' Until now, breeding staff have identified each penguin by an 'individual identification number,' meticulously monitoring their health and personality daily. For the staff, these numbers are precious 'evidence' of having faced each individual life. To share these stories of life with the world, we are now overlaying 'names' that will be cherished by our guests. Helping people understand that each penguin has a personality and lineage is the first step toward becoming 'friends' who protect the oceans where they live and our future. Everyone who submits a name becomes a 'Pennamer.' Won't you send your cheers in the form of a name and join our huddle of life?

19 Emperor Penguins 'Naming Action'

As the first step of the project, we are accepting names for the 19 emperor penguins that symbolize the Antarctic.

Application Period June 1, 2026 (Mon) - July 31, 2026 (Fri)

Naming Announcement Scheduled for mid-August 2026

How to Apply 1. Web Application: Terravie https://form.run/@aws-pennamer *The application form will open on June 1.

2. In-park Application: Scan QR codes placed at various locations throughout the park. Handwritten application forms will also be available for children.

Digital Title All applicants will be granted the digital title of 'Pennamer.' Presenting it upon visiting the park will provide you with special benefits. Details regarding the distribution period and novelties will be announced on the official website at a later date.