Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Kaiyukan is a large aquarium located in Tempozan Harbor Village in Minato Ward, Osaka City. Opened in the 1990s, it is known for its Pacific Rim-themed tanks and exhibits that allow visitors to observe a wide variety of marine life up close. In particular, the huge Pacific Ocean tank that towers in the center is home to whale sharks, making it one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world. The aquarium is designed around a spiral route that allows visitors to follow the ecosystem from top to bottom, making it enjoyable for people of all ages.

Highlights

• Pacific Ocean Tank (huge acrylic panel): A spectacular exhibit featuring whale sharks, manta rays, and large migratory fish. You can observe them from multiple angles.
• Pacific Rim Ecosystem Exhibition: The exhibits are divided into zones that recreate the area from the coast of Japan to the South Pacific and Antarctica. It's easy to see the differences in biota and environment in each region.
• Sea Otter and Penguin Corner: A behavioral exhibit of the popular sea otters and penguins, whose adorable behavior is appealing. There may be feeding times and explanations of their ecology (please check the times).
• Touch pool and experience corner: An experience area where you can touch and learn about some of the creatures (restrictions may apply when crowded). Particularly popular with families with children.
• Jellyfish exhibit: The jellyfish exhibit, illuminated with fantastic lighting, is perfect for photos.
• Designing a circular route: You can observe the creatures from different perspectives as you move from the upper to the lower layers, so the impression changes depending on the angle you view them from.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: The most common way to get on and off is Osakako Station or Osakako Station on the Osaka Metro Chuo Line. It is about a 5-10 minute walk from the station.
• Approximate distance from major stations: From JR Osaka Station or the Umeda area, it takes about 25-30 minutes by subway and transfers, and from the Namba area, it takes about 20-30 minutes by subway. Travel time will vary depending on transfers and the time of day.
• Access by car: Accessible via the Hanshin Expressway Bayshore Route and public roads. There are paid parking lots in the area (parking lots in the Tempozan area, parking lots at shopping facilities, etc.), but they often fill up during peak hours, so we recommend using public transportation.
• Boat and sightseeing access: There are also sightseeing boats and cruises that depart and arrive around Tempozan Harbor Village (depending on the season and operation).
• remarks: Opening hours, temporary closing days, and admission methods (advance reservations, date and time designated tickets, etc.) may change, so please check the official website for the latest information before visiting.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• General guideline: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
• If you want to observe carefully, take photos, and have lots of fun with children: 2.5 to 4 hours
• If you plan to visit the surrounding tourist spots (Tempozan Marketplace, Ferris wheel, etc.), you will have plenty of time if you plan to spend half a day to a full day there.

Nearby spots

• Tempozan Marketplace: Restaurants, souvenir shops, and shopping facilities. Convenient for resting and eating.
• Tempozan Ferris Wheel: A Ferris wheel that offers a panoramic view of the sea and cityscape. The night view is also beautiful, so we recommend visiting both.
• Stroll along the seaside around Kaiyukan: You can enjoy the scenery from the walking paths and plazas facing Osaka Bay.
• Universal Studios Japan (USJ)：It's a little far away, but it's one of Osaka's main tourist spots. If you have time, you can combine it with other attractions.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: The museum is extremely crowded on weekends, national holidays, and long school holidays (spring break, summer vacation, New Year's holidays, Golden Week). It is quieter on weekdays, immediately after opening, and in the evenings, but please check the opening hours and final admission time.
• MannersPlease be considerate to other visitors and the animals in the aquarium by not knocking on the glass of the exhibits, refraining from using flash photography, and not making loud noises. Feeding the animals should only be done in permitted places and at permitted times.
• photo shoot: Generally, photography is permitted, but flash photography is often prohibited due to its impact on the wildlife. There are also restrictions on bringing in tripods and commercial photography.
• Climate and Seasons: Although it is an indoor facility, it can get crowded and hot during the summer and holidays. Please bring drinks and light clothing to ensure a comfortable visit. Also, be aware of the temperature difference between inside and outside the building during the cold season.
• Strollers and wheelchairsThe building is barrier-free and has elevators, multi-purpose toilets, nursing rooms, etc. Please note that the aisles may become narrow when it is crowded.
• Tickets and advance reservations: To reduce congestion, tickets with designated dates and times or online purchases may be available. If you purchase tickets in advance on the official website, you can reduce your waiting time on the day.

Before visiting, be sure to check the official website for the latest opening hours, prices, event information, and access information. Have a great stay!