Sumida Aquarium Accessibility Guide

Overview

Sumida Aquarium is a modern aquarium located on the 5th and 6th floors of the Tokyo Solamachi shopping complex, directly at the base of Tokyo Skytree. Opened in 2012, the facility was designed with barrier-free access from the start. The aquarium features open-plan viewing areas that allow visitors in wheelchairs to get close to the exhibits without barriers. Key displays include a large open-top penguin pool, jellyfish exhibits, a Tokyo Bay tank recreating the local marine environment, and coral reef displays. The entire aquarium is indoors, making it a good option regardless of weather.

Getting There

• Tobu Skytree Line - Tokyo Skytree Station: Direct connection to Tokyo Solamachi. The station has elevator access. Follow signs to Solamachi West Yard to reach the aquarium elevators.
• Tokyo Metro/Toei/Keisei - Oshiage Station: Multiple lines serve this station (Hanzomon Line, Asakusa Line, Keisei Line). Elevator access from all platforms. Oshiage Station connects directly to the Tokyo Solamachi underground level. Follow barrier-free signs to the elevators serving the 5th floor.
• By bus: Accessible buses serve the Tokyo Skytree area. The bus stop is at ground level near the Solamachi entrance.

Wheelchair Accessibility

Entering the Aquarium

The aquarium entrance is on the 5th floor of Tokyo Solamachi (West Yard). Elevators in the Solamachi mall bring you directly to the entrance level. The ticket counter is at wheelchair height.

Inside the Aquarium

The aquarium spans two floors (5th and 6th), connected by an internal elevator. The entire facility is barrier-free:

• Open-plan design: Many exhibits use open-top pools and low glass walls rather than traditional tall tanks. This design allows wheelchair users to see into the exhibits at a comfortable viewing height.
• Wide pathways: The corridors between exhibits are wide enough for wheelchairs and strollers to pass each other.
• Penguin pool: The large penguin exhibit is open-top with low walls, providing excellent viewing from a seated position.
• Jellyfish gallery: The jellyfish exhibit features cylindrical tanks at various heights, including some at wheelchair viewing level.
• Lighting: The aquarium uses atmospheric lighting (darker areas with lit tanks). Pathways are clearly defined with non-slip flooring.

Wheelchair Rental

Wheelchairs can be borrowed on-site, but the number is limited. Availability is first come, first served. Inquire at the ticket counter.

Accessible Toilets

• 5th floor: Two multi-purpose accessible toilets with grab rails, emergency call buttons, and baby-changing facilities.
• 6th floor: One multi-purpose accessible toilet.
• Solamachi mall: Additional accessible toilets are available on multiple floors of the Solamachi shopping complex outside the aquarium.

All accessible toilets inside the aquarium have adequate space for wheelchair maneuvering and include emergency call functions.

Tips for Visitors with Disabilities

• Disability discount: Visitors with a disability ID may receive a discount. Present your documentation at the ticket counter.
• Best time to visit: Weekday mornings are the least crowded. Weekends and school holidays can be busy, particularly around the penguin feeding times.
• Feeding shows: The penguin and fur seal feeding times are posted at the entrance. These draw crowds, so position yourself early if you want a good viewing spot.
• No on-site parking. Tokyo Skytree Town has a parking garage, but the aquarium itself does not have dedicated parking. Use the Skytree Town parking facility and take the elevator to the 5th floor.
• Combine with Tokyo Skytree. The Skytree observation decks (350m and 450m) are accessible by elevator. The Tembo Deck at 350m is barrier-free. The Tembo Galleria at 450m has a sloped corridor. Combo tickets are available.
• Solamachi shopping. The Solamachi mall has over 300 shops and restaurants across multiple floors, all accessible by elevator. The food court on the 2nd floor and restaurant floor on the 30th-31st floors have varied dining options.
• Visit duration. The aquarium is compact compared to some larger aquariums. Plan about 1-2 hours for a thorough visit.