Namerikawa City: Press the "Press Me" Button | Firefly Squid Museum

Have you ever experienced the mystique of Toyama Bay? As spring arrives, an enchanting creature illuminates Toyama Bay with its ethereal glow: the "firefly squid" (Hotaruika). Namerikawa City, in particular, is renowned as the "sacred land of firefly squid" due to its thriving fixed-net fishing industry for these fascinating cephalopods.

Today, we're taking you on a journey to the Hotaruika Museum, nestled in the heart of Namerikawa City. You might have seen the viral YouTube Shorts video featuring the intriguing phrase, "Press the 'Please Press' button," and wondered what it's all about. This isn't just a place for passive observation; it's a one-of-a-kind destination where you can fully immerse your five senses in the captivating world of firefly squid. So, let's embark together on an unforgettable journey deep into Toyama Bay and the mystical realm of the firefly squid!

Unique Experience! Discover the Mystique of Firefly Squid at the "Live Theater"

Undoubtedly, the "Live Theater" is the ultimate highlight of the Hotaruika Museum. The "Press the 'Please Press' button" experience, which has captivated audiences online, is just one part of the interactive wonders awaiting visitors in this very theater. What happens when you press the button? We won't spoil the surprise – that's for you to discover firsthand – but it's guaranteed to pique your curiosity!

During the specified season, the Live Theater hosts breathtaking bioluminescent shows featuring real, freshly caught firefly squid. Witnessing these creatures glow in unison with an ethereal blue-white light in the darkness is an absolutely mesmerizing and unforgettable sight. It's a rare and precious experience that truly brings to life the unimaginable, mysterious world that thrives deep beneath the waves of Toyama Bay.

• Operating Period: Approximately late March to late May (during the firefly squid fishing season)
• Show Contents:
• Bioluminescent show featuring live firefly squid
• Expert commentary on firefly squid ecology by dedicated staff
• Immersive, interactive presentations that make you feel like you're actually in the deep sea

*Outside of this period, you can still enjoy a powerful light and video show themed around the deep sea. No matter when you visit, you'll be able to connect with the mystique of Toyama Bay.

More Than Just Firefly Squid! Explore the Wonders of the Deep Sea in Permanent Exhibits

The Hotaruika Museum's allure extends far beyond the springtime firefly squid bioluminescence show. Its permanent exhibits, showcasing the fascinating world of deep-sea creatures, are a must-see and can be enjoyed year-round.

• DEEP SEA WORLD (深海の世界):
• In tanks meticulously recreating the deep waters of Toyama Bay, over 200 meters (650 feet) deep, you'll encounter a captivating array of unique and adorable deep-sea creatures, including firefly squid, lumpsuckers (dango-uo), and giant isopods (oogusokumushi).
• Observe the fascinating ecology of these rare creatures up close – a sight you won't often get to experience elsewhere.
• Mysterious Beach (ふしぎの浜):
• This interactive touch pool exhibit allows you to get hands-on with deep-sea life.
• Touch and experience the unique textures of various marine creatures like starfish, sea cucumbers, and sea urchins. It's a delightful area for children and adults alike to rediscover their inner child.
• Deep Sea Water Gallery (海洋深層水ギャラリー):
• Namerikawa City is one of the few places in Japan where deep sea water can be extracted. At the museum, you can learn about its unique properties and diverse applications.
• There's even a tasting corner where you can experience its refreshing purity firsthand.

A Feast for the Senses! Savor Namerikawa with Local Cuisine and Souvenirs

Your museum experience isn't just a treat for the eyes; it also delights your taste buds and sense of smell. And, of course, choosing souvenirs is an integral part of any travel adventure!

• Museum Restaurant & Cafe:
• Indulge in exquisite dishes featuring fresh firefly squid, alongside original creations made with deep sea water – gourmet delights you can only savor here.
• During peak season, you can fully enjoy the bounty of the sea with specialties like Firefly Squid Donburi (rice bowl) and dried firefly squid.
• Souvenir Shop:
• Processed firefly squid products (such as *okizuke* — squid marinated in soy sauce, and *suboshi* — dried squid) are extremely popular as Toyama souvenirs.
• You'll also find a wide selection of museum-exclusive merchandise and goods inspired by Toyama Bay's marine treasures. Discover the perfect memento of your trip or a thoughtful gift for loved ones.

What's more, the Hotaruika Museum is conveniently located right next to "Michi-no-Eki Wave Park Namerikawa" (Roadside Station Wave Park Namerikawa). Here, you can purchase local specialties and fresh seafood, and even relax in the "Thalassopia Foot Bath," which utilizes the beneficial properties of deep sea water. Soak away your travel fatigue while fully savoring Namerikawa's abundant blessings.

🌐 Related Link: Hotaruika Museum Official Website

Conclusion

The Hotaruika Museum in Namerikawa City, famously associated with the "Press the 'Please Press' button" experience, is far more than just an exhibition facility. It's a special place where you can engage all five senses to truly experience the mystique of Toyama Bay – by seeing, touching, and tasting. A visit in spring, in particular, promises an undeniably moving experience with the live firefly squid's breathtaking bioluminescent show. Of course, even outside of spring, you can fully enjoy encounters with fascinating deep-sea creatures and the benefits of deep sea water.

Why not come and connect with the beautiful sea of Namerikawa and the mysterious life it nurtures? We invite you to experience the awe-inspiring sensation of being enveloped by the glow of firefly squid in Namerikawa. It's sure to become an unforgettable memory of your trip to Toyama!

📍 Toyama Travel Guide (Namerikawa City Area)

Here's some tourist information for attractions around the spots introduced in this article.

• 🎁 Order Namerikawa's Delicacies Online: Browse Toyama gourmet foods on Rakuten Ichiba
• 🎡 Looking for Fun in Toyama?: Find activities on Rakuten Travel Experiences