Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Journey through Pacific Ocean ecosystems alongside majestic whale sharks
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan opened in July 1990 as part of the Tempozan Harbor Village development, designed to showcase the biodiversity of the Pacific Ring of Fire. The aquarium was one of the world's largest at its opening, featuring an innovative spiral design that allows visitors to descend through eight floors while observing a massive central tank from multiple depths. This revolutionary layout simulates a descent into the ocean, providing perspectives from surface waters to deep-sea environments.
The centerpiece is the enormous Pacific Ocean tank, holding 5,400 cubic meters of water - one of the largest single aquarium tanks in the world. The tank houses multiple whale sharks, the world's largest fish species, along with manta rays, schools of tuna, and various other Pacific species. Kaiyukan pioneered the concept of ecosystem-based exhibits rather than species collections, with 15 different tanks representing specific regions around the Pacific Rim including the Japanese Forest, Antarctic, Monterey Bay, and Great Barrier Reef.
Today, Kaiyukan is one of Osaka's premier tourist attractions, welcoming over 2 million visitors annually. The aquarium has been instrumental in marine conservation efforts, successfully breeding various species and conducting research on whale shark behavior and biology. The facility's emphasis on recreating natural habitats and ecosystems has influenced aquarium design worldwide. Interactive exhibits and special nighttime viewings have kept the aquarium innovative and engaging for multiple generations of visitors.
Key Highlights
- One of world's largest aquariums with 5,400 cubic meter Pacific Ocean tank
- Multiple whale sharks - world's largest fish species - swimming in central tank
- 15 tanks representing Pacific Ring of Fire ecosystems from Arctic to tropics
- Spiral descent design provides multi-level views of same ecosystems
- Interactive rockpool area where visitors can touch rays and small sharks
- Special night viewing events showing nocturnal marine behavior (seasonal)
- Japanese spider crabs, sea otters, penguins, and jellyfish exhibits
- Located at Tempozan Harbor Village with shopping and ferris wheel access
Access Information
Location
1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka 552-0022
Nearest Stations
- • Osakako Station (Osaka Metro Chuo Line) - 5-minute walk to aquarium entrance
Opening Hours
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM (last admission 7:00 PM). Hours vary seasonally - winter may close at 6:00 PM, summer weekends may extend to 8:30 PM. Closed some Wednesdays in January-February (irregular). Check official calendar before visiting.
Admission Fee
Adults ¥2,700, Elementary/Junior high ¥1,400, Children (4-6 years) ¥700, Under 3 free. Annual pass available (Adults ¥5,400 - pays for itself in 2 visits). Special exhibits may have additional fees. Advance online tickets recommended to skip ticket lines.
How to Get There
From Osaka/Umeda Station
Take Osaka Metro Midosuji Line to Hommachi Station (7 minutes), transfer to Chuo Line to Osakako Station (15 minutes, total ¥280), then walk 5 minutes west to harbor
30 minutes
From Namba/Dotonbori
Take Osaka Metro Yotsubashi or Midosuji Line to Hommachi (5 minutes), transfer to Chuo Line to Osakako (15 minutes), then walk 5 minutes
25 minutes
From Universal Studios Japan
Take Captain Line ferry from USJ to Kaiyukan (10 minutes, ¥800) for scenic bay crossing, or train via Nishikujo transfer (25 minutes)
30 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Best Visiting Times
Arrive right at opening (10:00 AM) for smallest crowds and most active animals. Feeding times vary daily - check schedule at entrance. Whale sharks and other large fish are most active mid-morning. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends.
Photography Strategy
The spiral descent provides multiple angles of the main tank - photograph whale sharks from various levels. Lower levels offer close-up shots. Pacific Ocean tank viewing is best from floors 5-7. Arrive early for shots without crowd reflections. Flash photography prohibited.
Visiting Route
Follow the one-way route starting on 8th floor and spiraling down. Don't rush - allow 2-3 hours to fully appreciate all exhibits. The touch pool is at the end. You cannot go back up once descended, so take your time at each level.
Family-Friendly Features
Interactive touch pool near exit allows gentle interaction with rays and small sharks. Child-height viewing areas at main tank. Stroller-friendly route. Baby changing facilities available. The penguin and otter exhibits are particularly popular with children.
Don't Miss Exhibits
Whale sharks in Pacific Ocean tank (main attraction), Japanese spider crabs (enormous!), playful sea otters, and Pacific white-sided dolphins. The jellyfish exhibit is mesmerizing. Interactive touch pool at end is fun for all ages. Each tank represents different Pacific ecosystem.
Special Programs
Night viewing events (seasonal) show animals' nocturnal behavior with different lighting and atmosphere. Back-of-house tours available with advance reservation (in Japanese). Check official website for current special programs and feeding show times.
Dining & Shopping
Cafe inside aquarium serves light meals and drinks (¥800-¥1,500). Tempozan Marketplace next door has many restaurants with bay views. Large gift shop features plush toys, especially popular whale shark plushies. Re-entry not permitted after exiting.
Combination Tickets
Tempozan area includes ferris wheel, Lego Discovery Center, and shopping mall. Combination tickets available offering small discounts. The Captain Line ferry to/from Universal Studios Japan makes a fun addition (¥800, scenic 10-minute crossing). Plan half-day for aquarium and surrounding area.
FAQ
How long should I plan for visiting the aquarium?
Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the aquarium's spiral route from top to bottom. If you want to attend feeding times and spend extra time at favorite exhibits, allow 3-4 hours. The adjacent Tempozan area with the Ferris wheel could extend your visit.
When are the whale shark feeding times?
Whale shark feeding typically occurs 2-3 times daily at scheduled times posted at the entrance and near the Pacific Ocean tank. These sessions attract crowds, so arrive 10-15 minutes early for good viewing positions. The enormous whale sharks eating vertically is spectacular and photogenic.
What makes Kaiyukan special compared to other aquariums?
The Pacific Ocean tank is one of the world's largest aquarium tanks, housing whale sharks, manta rays, and numerous other species. The unique spiral descent design lets you view ecosystems from multiple depths. The diversity of Pacific Rim environments represented is exceptional.
Is the aquarium suitable for young children?
Very suitable. The one-way spiral route is stroller-friendly with elevators available. Interactive touch pools engage children. The variety of colorful fish, penguins, and sea otters captivate kids. Plan for 2-3 hours as children often want to linger at favorite exhibits.
Can I re-enter the aquarium on the same ticket?
Re-entry is possible with a hand stamp received at the exit if you need to leave temporarily. This allows lunch breaks outside or visiting nearby Tempozan attractions. Inform staff when exiting that you plan to return. Re-entry is permitted only on the same day.
Are there English explanations for the exhibits?
Yes, most major exhibits have English signage alongside Japanese. An English audio guide rental is available for detailed information. English pamphlets are provided at entrance. The visual nature of aquariums means language barriers are minimal for enjoying the displays.
Should I buy tickets online in advance?
Online tickets are strongly recommended, especially for weekends, holidays, and school vacation periods. They allow you to skip the main ticket line which can have 30-60 minute waits during peak times. Advance tickets guarantee entry during capacity-limited periods.
What time is best to avoid crowds?
Weekday mornings right at opening (10am) are quietest. Late afternoon (after 3pm) on weekdays also sees fewer visitors. Avoid weekends, school holidays, and Japanese national holidays when the aquarium is packed. Summer vacation (late July-August) is especially crowded.
Is photography allowed inside the aquarium?
Yes, photography without flash is permitted throughout the aquarium. Tripods and selfie sticks may be restricted in crowded areas. The large Pacific Ocean tank, jellyfish exhibits, and interactive areas provide excellent photo opportunities. Videos are also allowed.
Are there dining options at the aquarium?
A cafe inside offers light meals and drinks. The adjacent Tempozan Marketplace has multiple restaurants, food courts, and the famous takoyaki museum. Many visitors eat before or after the aquarium visit. Outside food is not permitted inside the aquarium.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Dotonbori
Osaka's most famous entertainment and dining district, known for its dazzling neon lights, enormous street food signs, and vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
Expo '70 Commemorative Park
Vast park built on the site of the 1970 World Exposition, featuring iconic Tower of the Sun, gardens, museums, and cultural facilities.
Kuromon Ichiba Market
Osaka's legendary 'Nation's Kitchen' covered market, offering an incredible array of fresh seafood, Kobe beef, street food, and local delicacies for over 190 years.
Nakanoshima Park
Osaka's first public park situated on a river island between the Dojima and Tosabori rivers, featuring rose gardens, historic Western-style buildings, and serving as downtown Osaka's green oasis.
Namba Parks
An innovative multi-level shopping complex featuring rooftop garden terraces cascading eight floors, combining retail, dining, entertainment, and green space in Osaka's entertainment district.
Osaka Castle
One of Japan's most famous castles, a symbol of Osaka's power and resilience, featuring impressive architecture, beautiful gardens, and a museum spanning centuries of samurai history.
Osaka Tenmangu Shrine
Osaka's premier shrine dedicated to Tenjin (deity of learning), founded in 949 CE, featuring traditional architecture and hosting the spectacular Tenjin Matsuri, one of Japan's three greatest festivals.
Spa World Onsen Theme Park
A unique multi-floor onsen complex featuring themed baths representing countries worldwide, water slides, saunas, and relaxation facilities, offering 24-hour access in central Osaka's Shin-Sekai district.