Hakone-en Aquarium (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hakone-en Aquarium?
What makes it 85% Kids-Friendly: Half-price child tickets, diver feedings, otter handshake and stroller rental give 4–12-year-olds plenty to enjoy safely while parents rest, making the aquarium an easy, high-value half-day stop.
Positives:
- Interactive shows: Free seal and underwater feeding shows keep kids engaged.
- Compact layout: All zones are close together, so little legs won’t tire.
Challenges:
- Limited seating: Show areas fill quickly; arrive early to secure better views.
- No on-site snacks: Eating isn’t allowed inside; bring snacks to enjoy at nearby picnic spots.
What is Hakone-en Aquarium?
- An aquarium perched at 723 meters above sea level, holding the distinction of Japan’s highest-altitude saltwater exhibition
- A vibrant collection of 32,000 specimens across 450 species, showcasing sharks, emperor penguins and king crabs alongside electric eels, piranhas and Lake Ashinoko freshwater fish
- A seal hall featuring Baikal seals and a variety of freshwater turtles in an outdoor pool setting
What is so special about Hakone-en Aquarium for with kids?
- Three main zones: saltwater, freshwater, and seals.
- Free daily shows that delight children.
- Hands-on experiences like otter handshakes and seal feeding.
- Compact layout suits families with young kids.
- Nearby cable car offers panoramic views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Includes time for exhibits, two live shows, and an interactive feeding session without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hakone-en Aquarium
Underwater Feeding Show:
Watch a diver feed tropical fish in the open-air saltwater tank.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to get a front-row spot.
Baikal Seal Show:
See seals roll, wave, and chase balls on schedule.
Tip: Check the show board on arrival and plan your route accordingly.
Asian Small-Clawed Otter Handshake:
Shake hands and feed otters through a feeding tube.
Tip: Reserve your spot at the information desk right after entering.
Seal Feeding Experience:
Feed seals up close in a small-group session.
Tip: Book early since sessions fill fast, especially on weekends.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hakone-en Aquarium
- Time your visit: Plan around show times to make the most of your visit.
- Combine attractions: Take the Komagatake Cable Car afterward for lake and Mount Fuji views.
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!
When is the best time to visit Hakone-en Aquarium (Hakone, Japan)?
On clear winter days you can glimpse Mount Fuji from outdoor areas. In summer, enjoy cooler indoor tanks as a break from heat.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (¥1,500 × 2) | JPY 3,000 |
| Child admission (¥750 × 2) | JPY 1,500 |
| Otter handshake (¥600 × 4) | JPY 2,400 |
| Seal feeding (¥800 × 4) | JPY 3,200 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 10,100 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Hakone-en Aquarium
Address: 139 Motohakone, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0522, Japan
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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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