This past Monday was Marine Day in Japan. Aside from creating a much-appreciated three-day weekend, the role of the holiday is to encourage people to reflect on the integral role the ocean plays in Japan's history. So, what better time to visit an aquarium? Japan has plenty of places to ogle fish, and not just on ice or on a grill. Here are a few of my favorites in the Tokyo area.

Let's start with Sunshine Aquarium in Ikebukuro. Not only are the tanks as clean and pristine as they come, but Sunshine augments their collection of traditional sea creatures with an interesting array of amphibians and semi-aquatic reptiles. There are no dolphins here, but they have otters, penguins and seals, as well as sea lions, who exercise in a clear circular plexiglass track above your head. Overall, the facilities are worth a visit if you are in Ikebukuro, but I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the arduous journey required to reach this place with a stroller or small children. It is a long and poorly-marked walk from the station, into the crowds of Ikebukuro and then finally through the maze of steps and escalators that comprise the Sunshine City entrance. Give yourself extra time, and be prepared to ask for directions if you're not familiar with the area.

By contrast, the Epson Aqua Stadium is just minutes from the Takanawa exit of Shinagawa Station and adjacent to the elegant, air-conditioned interiors of the Prince Hotel. This aquarium wants to present itself more as an amusement park, and there are a handful of prohibitively priced rides, but they pride themselves on their dolphin show — probably the most impressive in the city. Consider yourself warned: When they say you will get wet in the front rows, they mean it. Arrive early, and choose your seats wisely.