Kyoto Aquarium

Kyoto Aquarium is a large inland aquarium located in Umekoji Park in Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City. It is about a 15-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station, or about a 7-minute walk from Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station on the JR Sagano Line, making it easily accessible from major sightseeing hubs. Opened in March 2012, it features over 15,000 creatures representing about 250 species across 10 exhibition zones.

One of its main highlights is the Japanese giant salamander, a Special Natural Monument of Japan, on display in the “Kyoto River” area. Known as one of the world’s largest amphibians, it is popular with visitors not only for its impressive size but also for its charming, bead-like eyes. In addition, the tank recreating the environment from the upper to lower reaches of the Yura River allows visitors to observe the ecology of freshwater fish such as iwana (char) and yamame (landlocked masu salmon), as well as mugitsuku.

In the “Penguin” area, Cape penguins from southern Africa live here. The spacious exhibit spans the first and second floors, allowing visitors to enjoy both their relaxed moments on land and their lively swimming underwater. A unique display called the “Penguin Relationship Map,” which illustrates the relationships among the penguins, has also attracted attention.

In the “Kyoto Sea” area, a massive tank about 6 meters high showcases fish native to the waters near Kyoto, including Japanese sardines, rays, and sharks, swimming gracefully. Benches are placed in front of the tank, allowing visitors to spend a peaceful moment while gazing at the shimmering blue underwater world.

In 2020, a new exhibition area called “Jellyfish Wonderland” opened. It features around 30 species and more than 5,000 jellyfish, the largest variety in western Japan, impressing visitors with their diverse colors, shapes, and sizes. Among them, the panoramic tank “GURURI,” where moon jellyfish can be viewed from 360 degrees, offers a dreamlike experience as if drifting through the sea alongside the jellyfish. There is also an informative panel exhibit, “Jellyfish Wonderland Encyclopedia,” filled with the enthusiasm of the aquarium staff, allowing visitors to enjoy both observation and learning at the same time.

In the semi-outdoor area, where fur seals and spotted seals swim energetically, visitors can get a close look at them as they relax in tube-shaped tanks and on rocky areas. Near the exit is the “Kyoto Satoyama” area, complete with rice fields and plots of Kyoto vegetables, where visitors can observe the cultivation of local produce such as Kujo leeks and Shogoin turnips. It is a soothing space that vividly recreates the scenery of Kyoto, where nature and urban life exist in harmony.

With the concept of “Get closer, and you’ll love them even more,” Kyoto Aquarium also offers a variety of interactive programs that bring visitors closer to the animals. From keeper-led talk events such as “Feeding Time” to workshops for young children, there is plenty to enjoy and learn from.

Because many of the exhibits are indoors, it is also a great place to visit even on rainy days. The aquarium also has a cafe and museum shop, where visitors can purchase Kyoto Aquarium original goods and souvenirs.

Kyoto Aquarium is a place where people of all ages can experience learning and relaxation, making it one of the must-visit spots during a trip to Kyoto.