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Kyoto Aquarium

Japan · 下京區 · Landmarks

京都水族館
Mti / CC BY-SA 3.0 — via Wikimedia Commons

Image source: Wikimedia Commons; license credits as shown.

Overview

Kyoto Aquarium is a large inland aquarium located in Umekoji Park in the Shimogyo Ward of Kyoto City, about a 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station. The concept of the aquarium is 'Connecting life with water,' showcasing various creatures such as Kyoto river species, penguins, seals, dolphins, and jellyfish.

Getting There

It is about a 7-minute walk from JR 'Umekoji-Kyoto-Nishi' Station, or about a 15-minute walk from the central exit of JR 'Kyoto' Station; you can also take a city bus and get off at 'Umekoji Park・In front of JR Umekoji-Kyoto-Nishi Station' or 'Shichijo-Omiya・In front of Kyoto Aquarium' and walk from there.

Highlights

One of the largest inland aquariums in Japan, located in Umekoji Park near downtown Kyoto. Features the local river ecology of Kyoto, where you can see the specially designated natural monument, the Japanese giant salamander. Includes multiple exhibition areas showcasing about 250 species and approximately 15,000 individual creatures, including dolphins, penguins, seals, and jellyfish. In 2020, the 'Jellyfish Fantasia' area was added to enhance jellyfish displays and light experiences.

What to See

Kyoto River Exhibition Area: Focuses on the river environment of Kyoto, showcasing freshwater creatures like the Japanese giant salamander. Penguin Tank: Offers close-up observation of penguin activities. Kyoto Sea Exhibition Area: Recreates the coastal ecology near Kyoto. Dolphin Show and Dolphin Area: One of the popular highlights of the aquarium. Jellyfish Fantasia: Features various jellyfish presented through immersive display techniques.

Hours & Admission

Opening hours vary by date and season, typically from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with admission usually ending one hour before closing. Please refer to the official announcements for the latest information. The aquarium is generally open year-round, but may close temporarily due to equipment inspections or weather conditions. Common ticket prices are: Adults 2,400 yen, High School Students 1,800 yen, Elementary and Middle School Students 1,200 yen, and Children aged 3 and above 800 yen.

Address

〒600-8835 35-1 Kankijimachi, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City (within Umekoji Park)

Travel Tips

It is recommended to visit on weekdays or in the morning to avoid crowds of families and groups. The aquarium has a café and a souvenir shop, making it suitable for a visit of about 2 hours. You can also visit Umekoji Park and the Kyoto Railway Museum nearby, as the layout is convenient. If you want to see special exhibitions and performances, it is advisable to check the official schedule in advance.

Nearby Dining

The café inside the aquarium serves light meals and is a good place to rest. The souvenir shop inside is suitable for purchasing Kyoto Aquarium exclusive items. For extended dining options, you can utilize the dining facilities around Kyoto Station or Umekoji.

FAQ

Q: Where is Kyoto Aquarium located? A: Kyoto Aquarium is located within Umekoji Park in the Shimogyo Ward of Kyoto City. Q: How do I get there from the nearest station? A: It is about a 7-minute walk from JR 'Umekoji-Kyoto-Nishi' Station. Q: How long should I stay at Kyoto Aquarium? A: It is generally recommended to plan for about 1 to 2 hours. Q: Does Kyoto Aquarium have any closed days? A: Kyoto Aquarium is generally open year-round, but may close temporarily due to equipment inspections or weather conditions.

Map

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Umekoji Park is a large urban park located in the center of Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City, covering approximately 13.7 hectares. It features a blend of expansive lawns, Japanese gardens, and ecological ponds. The park was originally the site of the former JR Umekoji freight yard and was redeveloped to commemorate the 1200th anniversary of the founding of Heian-kyo. It has now become a representative green space for family recreation, walking, picnicking, and enjoying seasonal flowers. The park includes a lawn square, a streetcar square, the Suzaku Garden, and the 'Forest of Life' ecological area, and is adjacent to the Kyoto Railway Museum and the Kyoto Aquarium, making it a popular spot for combining leisure and sightseeing when visiting Kyoto.
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