Hakone-en Aquarium (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Hakone-en Aquarium?
What makes it 85% Kids-Friendly: Children up to twelve get discounted admission, interactive seal and otter feedings, and fifteen-minute shows that fit short attention spans; flat corridors, stroller rentals and diaper tables aid parents.
Positives:
- Compact layout: Easy to navigate so kids stay engaged and parents can watch them at all times.
- Low crowd levels: Off-peak days are calm, letting children enjoy exhibits without pushing.
Challenges:
- Limited show seating: Seats fill fast; plan to arrive before showtimes for good viewpoints.
- Nursing room access: Only stairs lead to the nursing room; carry strollers up the steps.
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?
- Diverse saltwater and freshwater exhibits reachable in a compact layout.
- Engaging underwater feeding and seal shows that captivate kids.
- Hands-on otter handshake and seal feeding sessions enhance learning.
- Convenient stroller and locker facilities for families.
- Nearby cable car adds Mount Fuji and Lake Ashi panoramas.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to see all exhibits, watch shows, and join interactive sessions at a relaxed pace with kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Hakone-en Aquarium
Underwater Feeding Show:
Watch a diver feed tropical fish in the main tank.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early to get front-row spots for the 1:45 PM show.
Baikal Seal Show:
See seals perform tricks like rolling and chasing balls.
Tip: Catch the 11:00 AM or 1:00 PM show; on busy days, there’s an extra 3:30 PM session.
Otter Handshake:
Shake hands and feed an Asian small-clawed otter.
Tip: Book at the aquarium desk on arrival; spots fill fast.
Seal Feeding Experience:
Feed seals directly in a small-group session.
Tip: Reserve early; each person gets three feeding chances per session.
Komagatake Cable Car:
Ride 7 minutes up to views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji.
Tip: Buy cable car tickets nearby after the aquarium visit.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Hakone-en Aquarium
- Plan around shows: Check show times on the official board upon arrival to avoid missing them.
- Use stroller rental: Pick up a free stroller at the entrance for the younger child to save energy.
- Combine cable car: Visit the cable car after the aquarium to end the trip with panoramic 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)?
In summer, bring hats and water and rest indoors during peak heat. In winter, wear warm layers for the outdoor tanks and cable car. On rainy days, indoor exhibits and shows stay open but the cable car may close.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission (2 adults, 2 children) | JPY 4,500 |
| Coin locker | JPY 100 |
| Otter handshake (optional, 4 people) | JPY 2,400 |
| Seal feeding (optional, 4 people) | JPY 3,200 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 10,200 |
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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