Kyoto Aquarium (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Kyoto Aquarium?
What makes it 94% Kids-Friendly: Children up to 12 enjoy penguin dive windows, free craft workshops, seal feedings, and energetic dolphin shows; exhibits are low-height and restrooms have kid toilets, so almost ideal.
Positives:
- Indoor attraction: All exhibits are indoors, making the aquarium ideal on rainy or hot days.
- Family-friendly amenities: Stroller ramps, nursing rooms, and kid-size restrooms ease visits with young children.
Challenges:
- Crowds at peak times: Shows and popular exhibits fill up quickly during weekends and holidays.
- Limited café seating: The on-site café has few seats; bring light snacks or plan for off-site meals.
What is Kyoto Aquarium?
- A modern aquarium in Kyoto showcasing nine thematic zones that highlight freshwater and marine life, from Tamba Mountain springs to the Pacific coast
- A facility that reproduces the regional river-to-sea ecosystem and houses species such as the Japanese giant salamander, penguins, seals and dolphins
- An educational and environmental model venue integrating solar power generation, supporting rare-species breeding and embodying Kyoto’s commitment to nature conservation
What is so special about Kyoto Aquarium for with kids?
- Enjoy free dolphin shows and seal feedings with kids.
- Two-level penguin zone keeps children engaged.
- Hands-on craft workshops spark creativity at no extra cost.
- Barrier-free design and nursing rooms support families.
- Spacious viewing tanks let kids get eye-level with marine life.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to see key marine zones, attend a dolphin show, and join a craft workshop without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Kyoto Aquarium
Dolphin Stadium Show:
Watch acrobatic dolphins leap in an outdoor pool with park views.
Tip: Check show times at the entrance and arrive 10 minutes early for front-row seats.
Penguin Exhibit:
See penguins dive underwater and waddle on land across two levels.
Tip: Use the first-floor window to watch dives and the second floor for waddling action.
Fur Seal Horseshoe Pool:
Kids can peer through low windows to see playful seals swim overhead.
Tip: Let children stand at the bottom viewing window for the best eye-level look.
Communication Hall Workshops:
Drop in to make jellyfish mobiles or fish masks with provided materials.
Tip: Workshops run daily from 10:30 to 15:30 with no reservation or extra fee.
Sea of Kyoto Large Tank:
Relax on stone-style benches and watch 500 tons of colorful fish glide by.
Tip: Find a private box seat to give kids a close-up view of swarming fish.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Kyoto Aquarium
- Buy tickets online: Purchase admission tickets in advance to skip the ticket counter line.
- Plan around show schedule: Check the dolphin and seal feeding times at the entrance to avoid waiting.
- Use stroller-friendly routes: Follow ramps and elevators marked on the map to move smoothly with a stroller.
Reviews of Kyoto Aquarium
Kyoko Blanchard
A small aquarium compared to Kaiyukan in Osaka, but definitely not as crowded as that, so it was so pleasant. It was worth a visit. Giant salamanders were great and I haven't seen them this up close anywhere else. You also get to see penguins so close. Jellyfish section was one of our favorites. The Dolphin show was so cute!
master review
Visiting Kyoto Aquarium was a beautiful escape from the city's busy rhythm. Though not the largest, each exhibit is carefully curated and full of charm. The jellyfish area felt like walking through a dream, while the giant salamander—unique to Kyoto—offered a rare glimpse into local wildlife. The penguins and seals were lively and entertaining, and the dolphin show was heartwarming, not flashy but...
Michael Joel Mawikere
Nice aquarium. There are some annual passports for around ¥5,000. There are lots of giant salamanders there. The aquarium is so beautiful. There is a dolphin show where you can see a Shinkansen passing. The tickets are a bit pricey. The view of the jellyfish, stingrays, penguins and other fish are pretty. I would love to visit another time.
aud g
Came on a Sunday, and surprisingly the crowd isn’t too overwhelming. It’s a rather small aquarium - I could get it done in less than an hour. But the animals available are more than what I’ve expected! Dolphin shows, penguins, jelly fishes, seals.. not too bad for a small space! Entrance fee is around S$22 (bought on klook as compared to S$24 on site), will still recommend anyone to visit.
Jan Yung
Highly recommend this aquarium! It isn’t a huge place, however the species they are showing there are special, like the eel, jelly fish, salamander, etc. You could see the animals up close - I had never been able to observe penguins and seals so close in another zoo / aquarium. The dolphin show was great! Although we just spent 2-3 hours there, it’s definitely the highlight of the day!
When is the best time to visit Kyoto Aquarium (Kyoto, Japan)?
During summer holidays, arrive by opening to avoid midday crowds and heat. On weekends and holidays in fall and winter, check for special Night Aquarium light shows. In spring, cherry blossoms near the entrance add a festive touch—plan time for family photos.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult admission (2) | JPY 4,100 |
| Child admission (2) | JPY 1,200 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 5,300 |
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 Kyoto Aquarium
Address: 梅小路公園, 内, 35-1 Kankijichō, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8835, Japan
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About Kyoto 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 75-354-3130Explore Popular Things to Do
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