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Kyoto Aquarium

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Kyoto Aquarium

A large-scale inland aquarium where you can see, touch, experience, and learn all while having fun. The most popular area is "Sea of Kyoto." Watching the massive aquarium gives you an immersive feeling, as if you were underwater.

3.25 3

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Supervised by :  ORIX Real Estate Corporation

A large-scale inland aquarium that opened in March 2012 in Umekoji Park near Kyoto Station. It is divided into 10 areas and houses approximately 15,000 creatures from 250 different species, including the giant salamander, a national special natural treasure that lives in the Kamo River, Cape penguins, Largha seals, fish, and jellyfish. The “Penguin Correlation Chart,” which shows the relationships among the 59 penguins, has become the talk of the town because the penguins’ complex relationships resemble those of humans.

"Jellyfish Wonder," home to about 5,000 jellyfish of approximately 30 species, the largest in Western Japan, features the "GURURI" tank, offering a 360-degree view of moon jellyfish. It's an experience that makes you feel like you're floating in the sea alongside the jellyfish.The “Jellyfish Wonders Big Picture Book,” an explanatory panel that conveys the breeding staff’s love of jellyfish, is also a must-see.

Also, with the concept of "The closer you get, the more you'll love them," there are various ways to enjoy the experience beyond just observing the animals. Programs include "Feeding Time," where you can hear explanations from the caretakers, and workshops suitable for young children to participate in. The programs are designed to help you get to know the animals on a deeper level.

Another plus is that most of the areas are indoors, so you can enjoy them without being concerned about the weather. It’s a great place to add to your list of rainy-day activities.

Highlights

  • The “Jellyfish Wonders” exhibits the most jellyfish in western Japan.
  • Workshops, Feeding Time, and other hands-on programs are available.
  • The panels with unique perspectives from the breeding staff, such as the ”Penguin Correlation Chart” and the “Jellyfish Wonders Big Picture Book,” are a must-see.

Videos

Photos

  • The huge tank, “Sea of Kyoto”

    The huge tank, “Sea of Kyoto”

  • The giant salamander in the “River of Kyoto”

    The giant salamander in the “River of Kyoto”

  • "GURURI" – A 360-degree view of moon jellyfish

    "GURURI" – A 360-degree view of moon jellyfish

  • "Feeding Time" – Watch the caretakers feed the animals

    "Feeding Time" – Watch the caretakers feed the animals

Reviews

3

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • wendy
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    Kyoto Aquarium is an inland aquarium located in the city. Although it isn't very large, it's a place where you can have fun while learning about marine life.

    The aquarium is clean, bright, and colorful, making it quite comfortable to explore. What impressed me most was the wide variety of jellyfish. Watching all kinds of jellyfish slowly drifting under the lights was truly beautiful and soothing. Anyone who likes jellyfish should really enjoy it!

    There is also a display area similar to a “jellyfish laboratory,” where you can learn about jellyfish up close. This kind of experience is less common at other aquariums.

    Another distinctive feature of Kyoto Aquarium is its salamanders, including the popular star, the “giant salamander.” Seeing it for the first time was truly strange and fascinating!

    The aquarium also places a strong emphasis on energy use, with exhibits explaining some interesting design concepts. The shows focus more on information and explanations, so international visitors may find them a little less interactive and relatable.

    Overall, although the aquarium isn't very large and the admission price feels slightly high compared with the variety of species on display, it's still a good place to include in your plans if you're visiting Kyoto with children.

  • 陳松林
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    The dolphin show was fantastic, and the staff put in a lot of effort. The aquarium's jellyfish displays are a real highlight—so beautiful and relaxing.

  • 雪兒
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    The jellyfish display is definitely a highlight, and there's also a dolphin show.

Details

Name in Japanese
京都水族館
Postal Code
600-8835
Address
35-1 Kankijicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto (inside Umekoji Park)
Telephone
075-354-3130
Holidays
Open throughout the year (subject to temporary closures due to facility inspections or weather conditions)
Hours
10:00am - 6:00pm (Admission ends one hour before closing time)
*Varies by day. Please visit the official website for details
Admission
General admission: Adult 2,600 yen
Directions
1) A 7-minute walk from JR Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station
2) 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station
Credit Cards
Accepted *Not accepted for hands-on programs
Official Website
Official Website (English)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa