As one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world, the Osaka Kaiyukan Aquarium should be on the to-do list for anyone interested in marine life and underwater ecosystems.
With its stunning exhibits and immersive experiences, Osaka Aquarium offers you a unique window into the wonders of the deep.
So let’s take a peek inside Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and see how you can make the most of your visit.
Key Takeaways
Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when visiting Osaka Aquarium:
- Osaka Aquarium is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world.
- Features include the massive Pacific Ocean Tank and the Aqua Gate tunnel.
- Tickets are 2700 yen or 1400 for kids
- Buy a ticket at the door or prepurchase from the website (a bit clunky)
- Allow 2-3 hours to explore fully
Is Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan worth it?
The answer is an emphatic yes! Here’s why.
Firstly, let’s talk about the aquarium’s stunning architecture. The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, along with Okinawa’s Churaumi Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world and is a sight to behold. The enormous glass dome, resembling a whale shark, sets the stage for what lies within. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported to an underwater wonderland, where over 30,000 creatures, representing 620 species, swim right before your eyes.
The aquarium’s main attraction is the Pacific Ocean tank, the largest tank in the world, which houses a variety of awe-inspiring creatures. You’ll witness the grace of whale sharks, the ferocity of hammerhead sharks, and the playful antics of dolphins. The tank is designed to represent the Pacific Ocean’s Ring of Fire, complete with an artificial volcanic eruption that will leave you speechless.
The aquarium has a myriad of other exhibits that will delight and amaze you. The Antarctica exhibit, which simulates a penguin’s natural habitat, is a particular favorite among visitors. You’ll also have the opportunity to see sea otters, sea lions, and even the elusive giant octopus.
One of the unique experiences you’ll have at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is the chance to touch and interact with marine creatures. The “touch tank” allows visitors to get up close and personal with starfish and other sea creatures. It’s an opportunity that you won’t want to miss!
How much does it cost to go to Osaka Aquarium?
The cost of admission prices for the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan:
- Adults (16 years and older): 2,700 yen
- Children (7-15 years old): 1,400 yen
- Young children (3-6 years old): 700 yen
- Toddlers (2 years old and younger): Free
The aquarium offers discounted admission for seniors (60 years and older), people with disabilities, and groups of 15 or more. If you’re traveling in a group, it’s worth checking if you’re eligible for a discount.
If you plan to visit other attractions in Osaka, you may want to consider purchasing a combination ticket such as the Osaka Amazing Pass that includes admission or a discount to multiple attractions, including the aquarium. This can save you money and allow you to see more of Osaka’s sights.
Osaka Aquariums Whale Sharks
The aquarium’s main tank, known as the Pacific Ocean tank, is home to several whale sharks, along with other marine creatures such as manta rays, hammerhead sharks, and sea turtles.
The whale sharks are the stars of the show at Kaiyukan and are truly breathtaking, with their massive size and gentle demeanor.
You can view the whale sharks from multiple levels, including a massive glass tunnel that runs through the center of the tank. The tunnel offers a unique and immersive perspective of the whale sharks and other marine creatures swimming overhead.
A word of warning though. The whale sharks are one of the most popular attractions at the aquarium, and during peak times, there can be long lines to view them. If you want to avoid crowds, it’s best to visit the aquarium early in the morning or on a weekday.
Exhibits and Attractions
Osaka Aquarium is home to a wide variety of exhibits and attractions, each offering a unique perspective on the marine world. Some of the highlights include:
- The Pacific Ocean Tank: This massive tank is one of the largest in the world and features a diverse range of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and giant crabs.
- The Japan Forest: This exhibit showcases the unique marine life found in Japan’s forests and rivers, including otters, turtles, and freshwater fish.
- The Great Barrier Reef: This exhibit features a stunning recreation of the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, complete with vibrant coral, tropical fish, and other marine life.
- Antarctica: This exhibit offers a fascinating look at the marine life that inhabits the frigid waters surrounding Antarctica, including penguins, seals, and krill.
Interactive Experiences
In addition to the exhibits, Osaka Aquarium offers a variety of interactive experiences that allow visitors to get up close and personal with marine life. Some of the most popular experiences include:
- The Touch Pool: Visitors can touch and interact with a variety of marine creatures, including starfish, sea cucumbers, and sea urchins.
- The Jellyfish Tunnel: This immersive exhibit allows visitors to walk through a tunnel surrounded by hundreds of mesmerizing jellyfish.
- The Dolphin Show: Osaka Aquarium’s resident dolphins put on a lively and entertaining show, showcasing their intelligence and agility.
Additional Highlights
Here are some additional highlights of Osaka Aquarium that are sure to make your visit even more memorable:
- The Whale Shark Observatory: This unique exhibit offers visitors an up-close view of the aquarium’s resident whale sharks from above. The observatory provides stunning views of these gentle giants as they swim through the Pacific Ocean Tank.
- The Aqua Gate: This mesmerizing tunnel offers a 360-degree view of the Pacific Ocean Tank, allowing visitors to feel completely immersed in the underwater world.
- The Deep Sea Creatures Exhibit: This exhibit showcases the fascinating and sometimes bizarre creatures that inhabit the deepest parts of the ocean, including lanternfish, viperfish, and anglerfish.
- The Penguin Encounter: Visitors can get up close and personal with the aquarium’s resident penguins, including the adorable king penguins and rockhopper penguins.
How long do you need at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan?
So, how long do you need at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan? Let’s break it down.
Firstly, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is an enormous attraction, spanning several levels and exhibits. If you want to see everything, I recommend setting aside at least 2-3 hours for your visit. However, if you’re pressed for time, you can still get a taste of what the aquarium has to offer in 1-2 hours.
It’s worth noting that the aquarium is busiest during peak times, such as weekends and holidays. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, I suggest visiting during the week and arriving early in the morning. This way, you can beat the crowds and have more time to explore.
Now, let’s talk about the highlights of the aquarium. The Pacific Ocean tank, with its massive glass tunnel, is a must-see attraction that can easily occupy 30-45 minutes of your time. The Antarctica exhibit, with its adorable penguins, is another popular exhibit that’s worth spending 20-30 minutes exploring.
If you’re traveling with children, the aquarium offers several interactive exhibits and activities that will keep them engaged for hours. The touch tank, where they can touch and interact with sea creatures, is a particular favorite among younger visitors.
Lastly, don’t forget to factor in time for the aquarium’s educational exhibits and displays. The information provided about marine life conservation efforts and the importance of protecting our oceans is both fascinating and essential.
In summary, how long you need at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan depends on your interests and schedule. I recommend setting aside at least 2-3 hours to explore the aquarium fully. However, if you’re pressed for time, you can still get a taste of what the aquarium has to offer in 1-2 hours.
How do I get to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan?
Are you planning a trip to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan and wondering how to get there? As a travel enthusiast, I’ve got you covered.
The easiest way to get to the aquarium is by taking the Osaka Municipal Subway to Osakako Station on the Chuo Line. From there, it’s a short walk to the aquarium. You can also take the JR West Osaka Loop Line to Bentencho Station and transfer to the Chuo Line.
If you’re coming from central Osaka, take the Chuo Line from Honmachi Station, which is easily accessible from major tourist areas like Namba and Umeda. The journey takes around 20-25 minutes, depending on your starting point.
Another option is to take the Osaka Wonder Loop bus, a tourist bus that stops at major attractions in Osaka, including the aquarium. This is a convenient option if you’re short on time and want to see other attractions in the area.
So basically, the easiest way to get to the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is by taking the subway to Osakako Station or the Osaka Wonder Loop bus.
The Sum Up
Osaka Aquarium is a true masterpiece of marine exploration and one of the most popular and best things to do in Osaka. With its impressive exhibits, immersive experiences, and unique perspective on the marine world, Osaka Aquarium offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or just looking to explore one of Japan’s top attractions, Osaka Aquarium is an experience not to be missed.
