Hakone-en Aquarium (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Hakone-en Aquarium?
Seal shows, overhead tanks and Lake Ashi views create a light shared experience, but the small venue is finished quickly, so couples wanting longer or more romantic time might feel it lacks depth.
Positives:
- Intimate exhibits: Compact layout lets you explore side by side at every tank.
- Photo-friendly design: Glass bridges and low-light areas create dramatic couple shots.
Challenges:
- Limited paid slots: Otter and seal experiences fill up quickly—book ASAP at the desk.
- Weekend crowds: Holiday mornings see larger groups that can block views at tanks.
What is so special about Hakone-en Aquarium for couple trip?
- Indoor marine exhibits ideal for any weather
- Interactive otter and seal experiences perfect for two
- Compact layout allows close-up viewing and photos
- Free live shows add dynamic highlights
- Combine with Komagatake cable car for Mt Fuji views
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for exhibits, live shows, and one paid interactive experience without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Hakone-en Aquarium
Sea Water Pavilion:
Walk along Japan’s highest open-air saltwater tank housing sharks, rays, penguins, and king crabs.
Tip: Begin here to enjoy clearer views before peak crowds arrive.
Underwater Feeding Show:
Watch a diver feed fish in the main tank as dozens of species swirl around.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early for front-row spots by the glass.
Baikal Seal Performance:
See seals perform simple tricks like rolling and ball chasing.
Tip: Check show times on the entrance board and arrive 5 minutes early.
Asian Small-Clawed Otter Handshake:
Pay ¥600 per person to hand-feed and shake hands with an otter.
Tip: Reserve your spot at the aquarium desk right after entering.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission for 2 adults | JPY 3,000 |
| Otter handshake experience (2 × ¥600) | JPY 1,200 |
| Seal feeding session (2 × ¥800) | JPY 1,600 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 5,800 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Hakone-en Aquarium?
Indoor tanks offer a cool retreat in summer and shelter on rainy days. Winter mornings can be misty, so consider visits after 10 AM for clearer views.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Hakone-en Aquarium
- Buy tickets online: Skip the ticket line by purchasing admission ahead of time.
- Align with show times: Plan your route around the daily feeding and seal shows posted at the entrance.
- Visit off-peak: Weekday visits before noon offer the calmest experience.
Map of Hakone-en Aquarium
Address: 139 Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
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Reviews of Hakone-en Aquarium
Rebecca Koh
Highly recommended experience. The seal feeding is once in a lifetime. 800 yen per pax and there are only 15 slots each time.
AbareSaru AbareSaru
It’s a very small aquarium and you can see it all in about 30 mins. But it does have a good range of fish and some seals. Warning: if you are using the Hakone Free Pass. There’s only one bus every hour and we got stranded as the bus was full and wouldn’t let anyone one. There’s response to well how do we get back was: get a taxi.
Sudershan Singh Gusain
Small aquarium at the base of ropeway. Hundreds of types of fishes, Tiger fish, clown fish, crabs, salamander, jelly fish, turtle, and may sea creatures. There is a seal show around 15 mins. Beautiful scenery all around. There is a small shopping store with hundreds of souvenirs to take back including wooden carved paintings and special lock puzzle and candies. Small Due to high winds, ropeway may...
Jun Mao Tan
It's a decent small aquarium, however you can feel it's age as the aquarium definitely needs some renovation to look more modern. Price is ok, it's about 1000yen for entry so there is nothing much to complain about it. If you have gone to other Japanese aquarium this will feel small. Overall still worth seeing their seals and baby otters which are newborns and worth coming down to see them.
Yui Amano
Our kids had great time there. But the parking fee was too expensive! When we went here last year, the parking fee was free... Anyway, the aquarium has two buildings. And the new animals "otters" were so cute. I felt their space was too small for them. But my kids were so happy to see them. They have a few show events everyday and you can enjoy. Please check their show schedules before you go!
About Hakone-en Aquarium
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 460-83-1151Explore Popular Things to Do
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