Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Osaka Travel Guide

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Explore the Pacific Rim's marine wonders at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, home to whale sharks and diverse ocean life. An unforgettable underwater adventure awaits!

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Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the world's largest aquariums, showcasing the diverse marine life of the Pacific Rim. With its innovative design and massive tanks, including one housing whale sharks, it offers an immersive underwater journey for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Osaka, 1 Chome Kaigandori, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, JP
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Monday 10 am-8 pm
Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
Thursday 10 am-8 pm
Friday 10 am-8 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-8 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan.

Purchase tickets in advance online to save time and avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
Visit on a weekday or during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the aquarium's 15+ large tanks and exhibits.
Don't miss the feeding times for a chance to learn more about the animals and their behaviors.
Take a stroll through the Tempozan Harbor Village after your visit, and consider riding the Tempozan Ferris Wheel for panoramic views.

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Explore Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From JR Osaka Station, take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Bentencho Station. Transfer to the Chuo Subway Line and ride two stops to Osakako Station. From there, it's a 5-minute walk to the aquarium; follow the signs. Subway fare is approximately ¥230-¥260.
Bus

Take City Bus route 88 from Osaka Station or route 60 from Namba Station to the Tempozan stop, a short walk from the aquarium. The journey takes approximately 40-45 minutes. Check local bus schedules for current fares.
Ferry

From Universal Studios Japan (Universal City Port), take the Captain Line rapid ferry to Tempozan Harbor Village. The ferry ride is about 10 minutes and departs 1-2 times per hour. Ferry tickets cost around ¥800 for adults and ¥400 for children.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Osaka. A taxi from Osaka Station to Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan takes approximately 10 minutes and costs between ¥3,800 and ¥4,600. Note that traffic conditions may affect travel time and cost.

Discover more about Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, located in Osaka's Tempozan Harbor Village, is a world-renowned aquarium that offers visitors an immersive journey through the Pacific Rim's diverse marine ecosystems. Opened in 1990, the aquarium has become a landmark in Osaka Bay, attracting millions of visitors each year with its innovative exhibits and commitment to marine conservation.The aquarium is home to approximately 30,000 creatures representing 620 species, each inhabiting meticulously recreated habitats that mirror their natural environments. The journey begins on the 8th floor, spiraling downwards around a central, nine-meter-deep Pacific Ocean tank, allowing visitors to observe marine life from varying depths and perspectives. This main tank is home to the aquarium's star attractions: whale sharks, the world's largest fish, swimming alongside manta rays and schools of smaller fish.Kaiyukan features 15 large tanks, each representing a specific region of the Pacific Rim. These include the icy waters of Antarctica, where penguins waddle and dive , the vibrant Great Barrier Reef teeming with colorful tropical fish , and the Japan Forest, showcasing freshwater creatures like playful otters in a lush, forest-like setting. Other notable exhibits include the Tasman Sea, home to Pacific white-sided dolphins , and the Jellyfish Galaxy, displaying a mesmerizing collection of jellyfish.Kaiyukan is not only a place of entertainment but also a center for research and conservation. The aquarium has successfully bred numerous species of sharks and rays and conducts research on whale shark migration patterns. It also actively promotes marine conservation through educational programs and initiatives to reduce plastic use.Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or solo, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan offers an unforgettable experience that combines education, entertainment, and a deep appreciation for the wonders of the marine world.