Shimonoseki City Aquarium "Kaikyokan" Renewal

Located in Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, the Kaikyokan Aquarium boasts a wide variety of pufferfish displays that reflect the unique character of Shimonoseki, as well as one of the largest penguin displays in Japan. It is also popular for its "lifestyle displays," which focus on the natural habits and behaviors of animals.
This major renovation, the first since the museum opened, involved updating and remodeling aging facilities, as well as revamping displays. The new concept design, which meets the expectations of visitors to the facility—which is widely loved in the local area, as well as in the Chugoku and Kyushu regions—also prioritizes functionality.

- Create a sense of novelty and freshness through displays renewal in conjunction with large-scale renovation work.
- The introductory ramp escalator will incorporate exciting elements to create a sense of exhilaration for visitors.
- To make the pufferfish displays, a distinctive feature of the aquarium, even more appealing.
- Signage and graphic design to address the complexity of visitor flow.
The above were the challenges.

In displays area, we used stained-glass-style concept design with a familiar retro feel, while the signage and graphics throughout the building were designed to be both novel and cohesive.
Furthermore, in the introductory section, we created a presentation that enveloped visitors in images and light, building anticipation for displays such as the aquarium and fostering a sense of excitement among the visitors.
Furthermore, in the pufferfish section, we focused on creating displays exhibition space that showcases the diverse characteristics of pufferfish from every angle, making it the best displays space of its kind in Japan.
Regarding signage, we prioritized consistency and visibility across different types of signage, and worked to improve the complexity of the visitor flow. We also focused on making it easier to change displays by enhancing the updateability of various elements, with the aim of providing new displays that will continue to attract visitors even after the renovation.
In addition, a lettering monument using the museum's logo will be created and installed outdoors. This will function as a photo spot where visitors can take pictures of the museum even after the initial excitement surrounding the renovation subsides, with the aim of encouraging continued communication from visitors.