[ 日本語 (Japanese) ]

We oppose the construction of the aquarium by the City of Yokohama, Berjaya Yokohama Hospitality Assets and BMD62 (Berjaya Corporation, Marubeni Corporation and Daiwa House Industry)!

*The press release can be found here.
https://www.city.yokohama.lg.jp/city-info/koho-kocho/press/kowan/2020/0605_62kekka.html
https://www.hamakei.com/headline/11985/

In many countries around the world, laws have been enacted to prohibit the keeping and showing of wild animals in aquariums, zoos, and circuses in order to protect animals.
In Japan, the Shinagawa Aquarium has announced that it will discontinue dolphin shows after its renovation.

In September 2018, a dolphin show was held during the opening ceremony of the Sailing World Cup Enoshima.
The Japan Sailing Federation apologized for the event after it drew criticism from international organizations and participating athletes.
（https://edition.cnn.com/2018/09/12/sport/japan-sailing-tournament-dolphin-show-intl/index.html

We are concerned that the construction of a new aquarium in the midst of such a growing policy of abolishing the use of animals, and in the midst of critical scrutiny, would go against the global trend, and would greatly damage Yokohama's brand image.

Based on the above, we request that the City of Yokohama.

1. Eliminate the construction of the aquarium planned by Berjaya Yokohama Hospitality Asset Special Purpose Company and BMD62 Group.
2. To improve animal welfare in aquariums and zoos in Yokohama City and not to build new aquariums and zoos.
3. Submit written opinions to the national government and relevant administrative agencies requesting the enactment of a law prohibiting the breeding and performance of wild animals in aquariums, zoos, circuses, etc.