Providing Support to Shikoku Aquarium Development for Construction of Shikoku Aqaurium (Special Investment Operations)

Shikoku Aquarium, scheduled to open in Spring 2020, is positioned at the foot of the Great Seto Bridge in the town of Utazu, Kagawa Prefecture. The location is easily accessible from the Shikoku and Chugoku regions. Through the Setouchi Kanko Kasseika Fund, DBJ set up a silent partnership to provide financing for the construction of the aquarium to Shikoku Aquarium Development Co., Ltd. (headquarters: Utazu, Kagawa Prefecture), which is in charge of the development and management of the aquarium.

The main theme of the Shikoku Aquarium is the Shikoku waterscape. This largest aquarium in Shikoku presents space and exhibitions where people can get a feel for the local culture. It also includes a waterscape that replicates the Naruto Strait whirlpools. The basic color tone of the aquarium's entranceway is white, like the salt produced in the Utazu salt fields. Another feature is the Setouchi Deck, where visitors can relax while breathing in the clear Setouchi air. In addition, Utazu Rinkai Park, which is adjacent to the aquarium, is a prime spot for viewing the Great Seto Bridge and beautiful sunsets against the backdrop of Setouchi. This aquarium is expected to become a new tourist spot attracting visitors to the Setouchi area.

DBJ's initiatives to create new inbound and other tourist demand are expected to have ripple effects, including on the promotion of employment. The Setouchi Kanko Kasseika Fund employed Special Investment Operations to provide assistance for this project. DBJ aims to aggressively continue to support such local tourism revitalization measures for regional revitalization and local independent development.