海遊館 – Kaiyukan

This is perhaps the best aquarium I have ever been to.  Reported to be one of the largest aquariums in the world, Osaka’s Kaiyukan proudly displays a variety of marine life spanning 27 tanks that are divided into about 15 exhibits, each representing a region of the Pacific Rim.

The first time I visited this aquarium was in winter, and we discovered that during the winter months the Kaiyukan holds a daily penguin parade.  With real penguins.  This definitely left a strong first impression on us right from the start.

The inside of the aquarium is just as interesting.  Visitors start from the top 8th floor and make their way down in a leisurely spiral, allowing for full enjoyment of the tanks.  The impressive design of the tanks and exhibits allow you to get really up-close, and because some of them stretch several floors (vertically), it’s possible to observe the animals at different depths and perspectives.  Everything is very English-friendly, with well-placed signs in both English and Japanese explaining what you may want to know in detail.  The highlights are definitely the huge Pacific Ocean tank with the main attraction whale shark, as well as the feeding of the animals throughout the aquarium so be sure to be there in time for those!  My personal favorite is the feeding of the river otters~

Please note that this aquarium can get really crowded, even during the week, and lines to buy tickets can be very long.  If available, consider buying a combo ticket at the Ferris Wheel located next to the nice outlet mall on the way to the Kaiyukan instead.  For a few hundred yen more than the regular admission price,  you can not only bypass the line forming in front of the aquarium, but you can also enjoy a ride on the Ferris Wheel.

Vital Information:

• Open: 10:00 to 20:00 (Admission until 19:00)

• Closed: Irregular days; refer to Kaiyukan Website (English) for up-to-date information

• 2300 yen Admission

• 5 minute walk from Osakako Station on the Chuo Line.