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A paradise of “animal love” where children with nowhere to go can visit on their own

This private aquarium is run by Hanazono Christian Church, located in a residential area of Uzumasa, and is managed by children who are members of the Hanazono Joyful Children's Association, represented by the church's pastor, Shunichiro Shinozawa. Inspired by a child who said, “I've never seen a live fish,” Pastor Shinozawa decided to “help broaden the children's view of the world,” and he gradually added more aquariums and fish, eventually opening an aquarium in a corner of the church facilities in December 2014. In addition to fish, there are currently over 1,000 creatures of 210 species on display, including giant turtles, snapping turtles, and lizards. With the aquarium packed into a limited space, the facility was forced to temporarily close due to the coronavirus pandemic, but it was able to reopen after raising funds through crowdfunding and improving the ventilation system. It has been certified by the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and has been awarded the United Nations Biodiversity Action Award for two consecutive years since 2018, and its recognition is increasing year by year as a place that offers children many experiences and learning opportunities.