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Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Aquarium

Prefecture

Osaka

Type

Aquarium

N/A

0 reviews

¥2,700

Entry Fee

English Staff Train Access Cafe

About This Destination

One of the world's largest aquariums featuring a massive Pacific Ocean tank with whale sharks and diverse marine life.

Kaiyukan is one of the largest public aquariums in the world. Its main tank, the Pacific Ocean tank, holds 5,400 cubic meters of water and houses whale sharks, manta rays, and many other species representing the Pacific Ring of Fire. The aquarium is designed as a journey through the Pacific Rim, with exhibits organized by region from the Arctic to the Antarctic. Visitors follow a spiraling walkway that descends eight floors around the central tank, providing views at every level from surface to seabed.

Location

Prefecture: Osaka

Address: Osaka, Japan

Nearest Station: Osakako Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Accepted

Food Options: Tempozan Marketplace adjacent has 20+ restaurants including ramen and takoyaki.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan?

Plan for 2-3 hours for a thorough visit. The spiral route descends 8 floors around the main tank, and you can't go back up once you've passed a section. Weekday mornings are least crowded. Combine with Tempozan Ferris Wheel and Santa Maria cruise for a full day in Osaka Bay.

When is the best time to see the whale sharks at Kaiyukan?

Whale sharks are visible throughout the day from multiple levels as you descend around the Pacific Ocean tank. Feeding time (around 10:30am and 3:00pm, check schedule) is particularly exciting. The top floors give surface views, lower floors let you see them swim past at eye level.

Is Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan good for kids?

Excellent for children of all ages. The Interactive Area on the final floor lets kids touch sharks and rays. Stroller-friendly with elevators available. The whale sharks and penguins are perennial favorites. Allow extra time as kids love to watch each tank. Tempozan Marketplace next door has family restaurants.

How do I get to Kaiyukan and what's the entry fee?

From JR Osaka or Umeda, take the Midosuji Subway Line to Honmachi, transfer to the Chuo Line to Osakako Station — total about 25 minutes (¥280). Walk 5 minutes north to the aquarium. Adult entry ¥2,700, child (4–15) ¥1,400, infant (3+) ¥700; under 3 free. Open 10:00–20:00 (last entry 19:00). Buy time-slot tickets in advance via official site or Klook to skip queues, especially on weekends and school holidays.