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Dive into Kyoto's freshwater ecosystems, recreated—from the gentle Kamogawa River with playful seals and native fish to the majestic Yura River, home to the elusive Japanese giant salamander. These salamanders are one of the largest amphibians in the world.
Get up close with playful fur seals frolicking in their spacious horseshoe-shaped pool, witness their underwater acrobatics through viewing tunnels, and learn about their vital role in the Pacific Ocean's food chain.
Journey through the vibrant coral reefs of Okinawa, teeming with colorful fish and invertebrates. Spot local stars like the dancing schools of kintaru iwashi (Japanese sardines) and the Amadai, or tilefish.
Ever thought you'd find lush rice paddies in the middle of an aquarium? Well, at the Kyoto Aquarium, you can. These murky waters are the perfect spot for freshwater fish to lay their eggs and also offer refuge to native birds and insects. A symbiotic relationship to the core.
Step into a mysterious underwater cave inhabited by playful spotted seals, and observe their underwater agility and their unique adaptations for hunting and navigating their rocky coastal environments.
Watch dolphins gracefully perform captivating shows in a theater inspired by traditional Japanese architecture. The opposite open end of the stadium is your window to Kyoto's ever-changing scenery— from cherry blossoms to snow-capped peaks.
30 species. 5000 jellyfish. A 180-degree alcove. These bioluminescent jellyfish offer a marine ballet that'll surely captivate you. Don't forget to check out the Kyoto Jellyfish Science Club to see first-hand how jellyfish are handled.
A multi-sensory experience celebrating the wonders of Kyoto. See species that would have once inhabited the Mizorogaike Pond and Oguraike Ponds. You'll also spot Kyoto-native species like the four-spine sculpin, yellow pond turtle, Aucha perch, and the Niwaella.
Step onto a playful cape penguin colony, watch them waddle on icy shores, and frolic in their cool pool. Learn about their fascinating adaptations for life in the unusually warmer climate of South Africa and their important role as apex predators.
The Kyoto Aquarium is open daily throughout the year.
Weekdays (Tuesday-Friday):
Weekends (Saturday-Monday):
Best time to visit: Deciding the "best" time for your Kyoto Aquarium adventure depends on your preferences! For calmer crowds, aim for weekdays, especially mornings or afternoons past 4 PM. Weekends and holidays will be bustling, so plan accordingly. Consider special events like dolphin feedings or talks, but expect more visitors. Mornings offer quieter moments and gentler light for photographers, while afternoons might be better for observing active animals.
Address: 35-1 Kankijicho Kyoto Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto 600-8835 (inside Umekoji Park)
JR Kyoto Station: The closest station and ideal option for most visitors. Take the Keihan Main Line southbound for 4 minutes, disembarking at Shin-Kanshoku Station. The aquarium is a 5-minute walk from the station.
Travel time: 4 minutes
Nearest station: Shin-Kanshoku Station
Kyoto City Bus #100 or #86: Both routes stop at the Umekoji Park Mae bus stop, a 10-minute walk from the aquarium.
Travel time: Approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic.
Nearest stop: Umekoji Park Mae.
The aquarium has on-site parking available for a fee. However, due to limited spaces, reservation is recommended, especially during peak season.
Travel time: 15-20 minutes.
Nearest parking: Kyoto Aquarium Parking Lot.
Luxe: The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji, Kyoto Tokyu Hotel
Mid-range: Hotel Emion Kyoto, Shiki Suites | KYOTO UMEKOJI
Budget: Kyōto Dai-ichi Hotel