Family Fun in Japan During Silver Week
Japan’s Silver Week is a golden opportunity for family fun in Japan. For our family, it meant heading to the famous Enoshima Aquarium, a perfect spot to escape the summer heat and enjoy a day full of adventure. The day began with some light housework before we set off at 10:00 AM, right in time for our son’s nap. This gave us a quiet and peaceful drive to the coast, where our family fun was about to begin.
The Parking Puzzle on a Busy Silver Week
As with many holiday weekends in Japan, especially during Silver Week, parking can be a challenge. We arrived at the aquarium, only to find the main parking lot and nearby spaces packed with other families eager for their own family fun in Japan. After circling for a while, we finally snagged a spot just five minutes from the beach. The parking cost ¥1,700 for 24 hours, which felt like a bargain given the holiday rush.
A Scenic Bonus: Enoden Trains and Ocean Views
One unexpected joy of our parking search was spotting the iconic Enoden train that runs along the coast. This classic train, rolling right beside the sparkling blue ocean with Enoshima Island in the background, was picture-perfect. It felt like a scene straight out of an anime or travel magazine, giving us that first hint of the magic that makes family fun in Japan so special.
Family Fun at Enoshima Aquarium: From Crowds to Cool Exhibits
By the time we finally entered the aquarium around 1:00 PM, we were greeted by a 20–30 minute wait at the entrance, a typical scene during Silver Week. The heat and crowds inside were a bit overwhelming at first, but we were determined to enjoy our family outing.
A Quick Family-Friendly Escape at Denny’s
The midday heat inside the aquarium, paired with the large crowds, led us to take a break after about 30–40 minutes. Luckily, there was a Denny’s restaurant right across the street. Family restaurants in Japan, known as ファミレス, are perfect for young children. They offer a wide range of dishes, including Japanese and Western options, and provide a calm atmosphere for families needing a break. After a light meal and a rest, we were recharged and ready to continue our adventure.
Mesmerizing Jellyfish and More
When we returned to the aquarium around 3:00 PM, the crowd had thinned, and we could finally explore more comfortably. Japanese aquariums are renowned for their innovative displays, and the jellyfish exhibit at Enoshima Aquarium is no exception. The glowing, hypnotic movements of the jellyfish were a highlight for all of us. Our son, however, was more interested in running around than staring at fish, so we decided that a return visit might be better suited when he’s a bit older. Regardless, the experience was fun and memorable, making it a prime example of family fun in Japan.
Tips for Future Family Fun in Japan at Enoshima Aquarium
Planning ahead can make your visit to Enoshima Aquarium even smoother, especially during Silver Week or other busy times. For next time, we’ll aim to arrive earlier in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday crowds. Buying tickets online in advance is also a smart move to save time and skip the long lines. With the right timing and a bit of patience, you can truly maximize your family fun in Japan at this incredible aquarium.
By sharing our experience, I hope to give you a glimpse into the joys of family travel in Japan. Whether it’s discovering hidden parking gems, enjoying family-friendly meals, or marveling at breathtaking sea life, family fun in Japan is always within reach!
Plan Your Visit to Enoshima Aquarium
For more information about Enoshima Aquarium, including hours, ticket prices, and upcoming events, visit their official website here. If you’re planning a visit, you can also find the aquarium’s exact location on Google Maps.
About Me
Hi, I’m Asano! I’m a Japanese mom raising a multicultural family in Tokyo with my Japanese-American husband. I love sharing my experiences about bilingual parenting and life in Japan. Curious to learn more about our unique journey?
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