Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
4.4
(55.7k)One of the world's largest aquariums, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan focuses on marine life from the Pacific Ocean's "Ring of Fire" region. You'll ascend escalators to the eighth floor, then follow a spiraling path downwards through 16 main exhibits and 27 tanks, observing animals from various perspectives.
Address
1-chōme-1-10 Kaigandōri, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
Website
Opening Hours
10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Thu)
Phone
+81 6-6576-5501
Worth it?
Worth it if you enjoy large, well-designed aquariums with diverse exhibits
Skip if you dislike crowds, especially on weekends or holidays
Location
1-chōme-1-10 Kaigandōri, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
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Highlights
The massive central Pacific Ocean tank, which is 9 meters deep and 34 meters long, allows you to see whale sharks, manta rays, and other large fish from multiple viewing levels as you descend.
The "New Interactive Area" lets you get up close with animals in Arctic, Falkland Islands, and Maldives zones, even touching stingrays and small sharks.
Beyond the main exhibits, you can explore areas like the Japan Forest, which recreates a Japanese forest habitat, and a jellyfish gallery.
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Who it's for
This aquarium is great for all ages, especially families with kids, and anyone interested in seeing a wide variety of marine life, including large species like whale sharks.
Know before you go
Buy your tickets online in advance, especially if there's a chance of rain or if you're visiting on a weekend or holiday, as it gets very crowded and walk-in tickets may require time slot reservations.
If you're short on time, don't linger too long at one spot, as you'll often see the same exhibits further along the route.
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Reviews
4.4
Very good
5 ReviewsVisitors generally find the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan impressive, highlighting the diverse marine life, especially the whale sharks, and the unique, multi-level viewing experience of the massive central tank. Many recommend buying tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, particularly during peak times or bad weather.
Fun facts
When it opened in 1990, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan was the largest public aquarium in the world.
The aquarium holds the record for the fastest number of visitors in Japan, reaching 1 million in 40 days and 50 million in about 18 years.
The music played at Kaiyukan changes with the time of day, all coming from the "Acoustic Cafe Underwater Walk" album.
