Shinagawa Aquarium

November 24, 2019

& January 26, 2020

In these two events, we had a total of 8 scouts with us, Anna, Frankie, Hiromu, Sachi, and Yuna on Nov 24th and Frankie, Ben, and Anri on Jan 26th. We also had a guest Assistant Scout Leader with us on Nov 24th, Mikey.

We started the event after having our usual meet-up at Tachikawa Station. Once everyone was ready to go, we began our ride out to Omorikaigan Station. It took about an hour, so the Scouts had time to work in their journals and playing Othello (Jan 26th) before reaching our destination. I’m searching for more number and pocket games to play while on long rides. Once we arrived at the station, it was only a ten minute walk to Shinagawa Aquarium. 

By the time we bought our tickets, it was already time for lunch! Luckily, the staff had a lunch room available, and we were able to eat our lunches in peace and quiet. After we were finished, the Scouts were sure to help wipe the tables and tidy the floor in order leave the room just as it had been with no fuss. Then we were able to start our tour of Shinagawa Aquarium. 

We had decided to see the dolphin show in the afternoon, so we had plenty of time to explore in the meanwhile. While we went, the Scouts were encouraged to pick out their favorite creatures for us to snap a photo of, so they could do a drawing activity later! Some highlights of the trip included sea lions, manta rays, a hand operated underwater camera, sea turtles, and all types of colorful tropical fish. 

There also some events the Scouts were able to participate in while we were there, such as: a pool of “doctor fish” where you can have the dead skin cleaned off your hands by little fish, a pearl finding station where you can crack open an oyster to find and take home your very own real pearl, and a raffle game where you can pick a card and win adorable dolphin themed prizes. Sachi and Frankie got their very own pearl necklaces, and the others all won plush dolphins in the raffle.The Scouts even went back to visit the “doctor fish” a second time! 

Soon enough, it was time for the dolphin show! The staff introduced each dolphin and asked questions to the crowd about dolphins before showing off their amazing tricks. They jumped through hoops, over hurdles, swam laps, and even sang! The Scouts had a great time, even when they got splashed by the frolicking dolphins. 

After the show, it was nearly time to head home. We were able to see a few more exhibits on the January 26th event including the leopard seal tank and the penguins which the scouts really enjoyed. Lastly we visited the gift shop before heading back. On the train home, the Scouts divided their time between drawing dolphins, sea turtles, playing Othello, and taking naps. It was tiring, but very fun and memorable day out!

All of the Scouts had a great day of discovery and exploration at the Shinagawa Aquarium, and we hope we’ll see you all again soon!