The Kyoto Aquarium (京都水族館) is an aquarium located in Umekoji Park in the western part of Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the largest inland aquariums in Japan and is known for its unique focus on showcasing the diverse aquatic life found in the rivers and sea of Kyoto.
The aquarium’s exhibits feature a wide variety of marine life, including Japanese giant salamanders, fish from the seas of Kyoto, playful seals, tropical fish, and mesmerizing jellyfish. One of the most popular exhibits is the large tank filled with penguins, where visitors can observe their fascinating behaviors up close.
In addition to the exhibits, the Kyoto Aquarium offers several interactive experiences. Visitors can touch and learn about various sea creatures at the touch pool and immerse themselves in the underwater world through a virtual reality experience that simulates being an aquarium keeper.
The aquarium also provides a variety of educational programs and events, such as lectures, workshops, and guided tours. Special events for children and families are also regularly held.
The Kyoto Aquarium is committed to environmental sustainability and features an eco-friendly design that incorporates solar power generation and rainwater harvesting systems. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists who want to learn about and appreciate the diverse aquatic life of Kyoto.
Getting there
By Train
- About 15 minutes walk from JR Kyoto Station
- About 5 minutes walk from Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station on the JR San’in Main Line
By Bus
- Get off at Shichijo Omiya/Kyoto Aquarium-mae bus stop using Kyoto City Bus
- Get off at Shichijo Omiya/Kyoto Aquarium-mae bus stop using Keihan Kyoto Kotsu Bus
Main bus routes:
- From Kyoto Station: 9, 42, 43, 75, 80, 84, 88, 101, 103, 110
- From Hankyu Omiya Station: 42
- From Hankyu Katsura Station: Keihan Kyoto Kotsu Bus
- From Keihan Shichijo Station: 42
- From Subway/JR Nijo Station: 15
Details
| Hours | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Admission | Adults: 2,400 yen High school students: 1,800 yen Elementary school and junior high school students: 1,200 yen Age 3 and above: 800 yen |
| Phone | +81 75-354-3130 |
| Address | 35-1, Kankijicho, Shimogyo-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 600-8835, Japan (in Umekoji Park) |
| Official Website | https://www.kyoto-aquarium.com/en/index.html |
