Susami Town's "Aquarium of Shrimp and Crab" and Michi-no-Eki Susami: A Rainy-Day Family Trip | Enjoy a Sheltered Half-Day Stopover

For a rainy-day family trip, consider Susami Town's "Aquarium of Shrimp and Crab"

Susami Town sits along National Route 42, on the way from southern Kii to Kumano. It's a town where coastal drives feel wonderful, but on rainy days many visitors feel their scenic plans have been spoiled. For days like these, it's worth remembering a stop at Michi-no-Eki Susami (Susami Roadside Station).

Michi-no-Eki Susami is home to the Aquarium of Shrimp and Crab, which focuses on crustaceans like shrimp and crabs. Since it's entirely indoors, it's a reliable ally for rainy-day family trips.

Why it's great for rainy days

A "sheltered rest stop" between drives

Travel toward the Kumano area often takes longer than expected. Roadside stations conveniently combine rest, restrooms, and shopping in one place, making them easy to navigate even with small children. The rainier the day — when you want to minimize time outside — the more useful such stopovers become.

The aquarium lets you "play with perspective"

Shrimp and crabs have unique shapes and movements, making them creatures that children love to peer at closely. It's a different kind of fun than watching schools of large fish.

• "Which one has the bigger claws?"
• Compare the number of legs and the different colors
• "Where are they hiding?" — a hide-and-seek style search

Turning the visit into little quizzes like these really gets kids excited.

A sample half-day itinerary

1. Morning: Travel from the Shirahama or Kushimoto area toward Michi-no-Eki Susami
2. Late morning: Take your time exploring the Aquarium of Shrimp and Crab
3. Lunch: Find a lunch featuring local seafood at the roadside station or nearby
4. Afternoon: Depending on the rain, take a brief look at the coast or head straight to your next lodging

Susami Town is also known as a fishing town, famous for its *kenken* bonito fishing method. After getting close to sea creatures at the aquarium, tasting local fish helps children feel the real connection between the sea and the food on their plates.

What to bring and keep in mind on rainy days

• Change of clothes and towels: You can get surprisingly wet just walking from the parking lot to the building
• Plastic bags: For carrying wet jackets or umbrellas
• Zip-lock bags: To keep souvenirs and pamphlets dry
• Extra time: Roads tend to get congested on rainy days, so a relaxed schedule is reassuring

Opening hours, admission fees, and events are subject to change. Before setting out, be sure to check the latest information on the official Michi-no-Eki Susami or aquarium websites.

Even in the rain, your "Kumano-style journey" can continue

Travel isn't only about sunny-day scenery. Rain-soaked greenery and the softer tones of the sea are another face of southern Kii. On days when plans fall apart, try making indoor time with family — laughing together in front of curious sea creatures — part of your travel memories. Susami Town is a place you can quietly stop by along the way.

Image: 和歌山フォトライブラリー (via 和歌山フォトライブラリー)