The Otaru Aquarium hosts a diverse range of exhibits, including tanks that showcase fish species native to Hokkaido, tropical marine life, deep-sea creatures, and polar animals such as seals and penguins. The aquarium also features dolphin and sea lion shows, which are popular with visitors of all ages.
Yes, the Otaru Aquarium offers various educational programs and interactive experiences, including feeding demonstrations, touch pools where visitors can interact with certain marine species under supervision and behind-the-scenes tours. These programs are designed to educate visitors about marine conservation and the importance of protecting marine habitats.
Yes, the Otaru Aquarium has a cafeteria-style restaurant that serves a variety of meals, snacks, and refreshments. The menu includes both local Hokkaido specialties and standard fare, catering to a range of tastes and dietary needs.
The Otaru Aquarium strives to be accessible to all visitors, including those with disabilities. Facilities include accessible restrooms and ramps for easy navigation. However, it's recommended that you contact the aquarium directly for specific accessibility information and services.
Traveler reviews
We took the bus from Otaru station to the aquarium for ¥240 per person which can be paid using an IC card like the Kitaca, Suica etc. Bought the tickets at the door which is just a short wait. The facility is in need of upgrading as most reviews stated but the animals looks like they are well looked after. We particularly enjoyed watching the penguin march. The dolphin show is entertaining but only in Japanese. The admission fee is reasonable priced at ¥1300 per person during winter. Hopefully they will get an upgrade in the near future as some of the bigger fish looks like they need more space.
Nice aquarium place located on the outskirts of Otaru
Reachable by bus and or taxi.
Great options for those who want to have short and quick hop during day trip to Otaru.
Kids loves it a lot. Plus you got a nice view of the seashore!
The Aquarium is great. I mainly went for the penguins and the show.
The Sea lion and dolphin show was fun to watch, it is in Japanese only in case many people may be unaware of this.
The penguin walk depends sometimes upon the penguins’ mood and the weather coldness. However you may still see them swim and get some fish snacks.
They have a cafeteria with a lot of good food and vending machines for drinks. The souvenir shop is not something to rave about but is good enough. It is an old building and small but great experience overall!
Small acquarium but has a good variety of marine life. More interesting than the one in Osaka. The are many hand drawn explanations, the fixtures and fittings look well worn. Hope they receive more funding!
The dolphin and seal show was amazing. The penguin walk is really cute. You can really see global warming because there isn’t much snow even at late December!
This is a must-see spot in Sapporo, where you can come with your family and have truly wonderful memories. It features amazing shows, and I'd never seen anything like it before – the penguins were a huge spectacle, and I especially loved them.
