Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan)
1 Chome-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato, Osaka, Osaka Prefecture, 552-0022
One of the largest public aquariums in the world, the Osaka Aquarium is home to various species from the Pacific Ring of Fire and aquatic environments around the globe. Learn about local species such as Asian otters and giant spider crabs, and see other creatures, including sea turtles, sharks, penguins, and a host of tropical fish. It’s a must-visit attraction for families and nature enthusiasts.
The Basics
The aquarium collection is divided into sixteen exhibit spaces, most structured to mimic the world’s marine habitats like the Ecuadorian rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. Visit during the day to see 27 tanks of aquatic animals, hear talks by animal caretakers talks, and see feedings, or head over in the evening, when the animals swim under simulated moonlight. You can also combine an aquarium visit with a cruise on Osaka Bay aboard a replica three-masted sailing ship or a ride on the Tempozan Ferris Wheel.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is popular with families and animal lovers.
Pre-purchase tickets online to save time.
Audio guides in five languages, including English, are available for rent.
The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge.
The aquarium’s amenities include coin lockers, a nursing room, and a prayer room.
How to Get There
The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is in the Tempozan Harbor Village in the western part of Osaka, about a five-minute walk from Osakako subway station, near the Tempozan Ferris Wheel.
When to Get There
The aquarium is open daily throughout the year, though hours vary seasonally. Check the calendar before your visit for the latest schedule of feeding times and keeper talks.
Tempozan Harbor Village
The Osaka Aquarium is part of the larger Tempozan Harbor Village, an entertainment and shopping complex on Osaka’s waterfront. After touring the aquarium, head out for some shopping at the Tempozan Marketplace, taste local specialties at the Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho food theme park, which is fashioned after the streets of Osaka in the 1960s, ride the 369-foot (113-meter) ferris wheel, or take a cruise in Osaka Bay.
Ways to explore
The aquarium collection is divided into different exhibit spaces and tanks, most of which are structured to mimic the world’s marine habitats, including the Ecuadorian rainforest, Antarctica, and the Great Barrier Reef. Visit in the day to hear talks by animal caretakers and see feedings, or head over in the evening, when the animals swim under simulated moonlight. You can also combine an aquarium visit with a cruise on Osaka Bay aboard a replica 3-masted sailing ship or a ride on the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, which are both nearby.
Accessibility
The aquarium is accessible to people with mobility issues; you'll find ramps and elevators, accessible restrooms and parking, and wheelchair rental from the information desk.
Age limits
None
What to pack
A small bag, as large luggage isn’t permitted.
What to wear
A sweater, even in warm weather, in case the air conditioning is cold.
Not allowed
Eating or drinking beyond the cafeteria, flash photography, wearing costumes (cosplay)
Amenities
Gift shop, baby care and nursing rooms, first-aid station
Address
The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is in the Tempozan Harbor Village in the western part of Osaka, near the Tempozan Ferris Wheel. It’s easy to reach by public transportation.
Driving
The aquarium is near the Tempozan Exit of the Hanshin Expressway Bayshore Line and Osaka Port Line. There’s plenty of paid parking in the Tempozan parking lot beneath the aquarium.
Public transportation
You can reach the aquarium by bus, but you'll likely find the subway easier to navigate. The aquarium is about a 5-minute walk from Osakako Station on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line.
Best times to visit
The aquarium is typically open from 10am to 8pm, though hours vary by season; check the website calendar for details. The Night Aquarium experience runs from 5pm to 8pm.
Best days to visit
The aquarium’s opening days vary by season, so check the calendar in advance. Weekends and holidays are usually busier, so come midweek if you can.
Best months to visit
As an indoor attraction, the aquarium offers a great respite from Osaka’s hot, humid summers and its cold winters. Come anytime.
Special events
The aquarium sometimes hosts workshops and special events, such as those commemorating International Whale Shark Day. Check the calendar of events on the website.
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