Kyoto Aquarium Tickets

Kyoto Aquarium proves a city famous for temples can also do a very good indoor day out. Built beside Umekoji Park a short walk from Kyoto Station, it is a modern, thoughtfully designed aquarium with a distinctly local personality, from its river zone celebrating the waterways of Kyoto to its star resident, the Japanese giant salamander.

What makes it different

Those giant salamanders are the icon here, ancient looking creatures that grow well over a metre long and lounge in a recreated Kamo River habitat near the entrance. Beyond them the aquarium works through sea life large and small, with a penguin colony whose complicated relationships are famously documented on a chart that goes viral in Japan every year, plus seals, jellyfish and a dolphin stadium. It is compact enough to enjoy fully in a couple of hours.

Getting there

The aquarium sits in Umekoji Park, about fifteen minutes on foot west of Kyoto Station, or a couple of minutes from Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station on the JR Sagano Line, one stop from Kyoto. The Kyoto Railway Museum is in the same park, and the two together make an excellent rainy day pairing.

Frequently asked questions

Is it good for toddlers? Yes, it is pram friendly, compact and full of low tanks at child height.

How long does a visit take? Around two hours is typical, longer if you settle in for the penguins or a show.

Is it worth it in a city break? If you have a spare morning or wet weather, absolutely, especially with kids in tow.

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