Tokyo’s Sunshine Aquarium in Ikebukuro announced on the 7th that the California sea lion pup born on June 15th has been named “Joy.” The name was inspired by the English word “enjoy,” and the aquarium staff expressed their hopes, saying, “We want Joy to live a happy life. Our team will raise him with love, cherishing each day of his growth.”
According to the aquarium, Joy is male and currently weighs around 12 kilograms. This marks the first California sea lion birth at the facility in a year and the third in its history. Joy is now on display in the outdoor tank, where visitors can observe him nursing alongside his mother, Paco, for the time being.
Sunshine Aquarium
The Sunshine Aquarium, located in Tokyo’s Ikebukuro district, opened in 1978 and is part of the Sunshine City complex. Known for its unique rooftop “Sky Journey” exhibit, it features marine life in an urban setting, including penguins, jellyfish, and a sunfish. The aquarium emphasizes interactive experiences and conservation, blending education with entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Ikebukuro
Ikebukuro is a bustling commercial and entertainment district in Tokyo, Japan, known for its vibrant atmosphere, shopping centers like Sunshine City, and cultural attractions such as the Ikebukuro Life Safety Learning Center. Historically a quiet area, it developed rapidly after the opening of Ikebukuro Station in 1903, becoming a major urban hub. Today, it is also famous for its anime and otaku culture, with spots like Animate Ikebukuro drawing fans from around the world.
