Observation Hall

The “Phantom Whale” that Came to Kagoshima

An observation lookout providing a superb view of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay. Be sure not to miss the full skeleton of a tropical bottlenose whale, the first ever in the world to be displayed. Until this whale washed up on the shore of Satsuma Sendai City, Kagoshima in 2002, only bones of this species had been discovered, thus giving it the nickname “the phantom whale.” This was a huge discovery. Take a break here while thinking about the excitement of ocean life.