Osaka Day Guides
by Trip To Japan
How to spend a day at Kaiyukan Aquarium and nearby attractions
Kaiyukan Aquarium in Osaka is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world. Located near Osaka Bay, it offers not only an amazing underwater experience but also many fun spots to explore nearby. This guide will help you enjoy a full day around Kaiyukan.
Let’s start your perfect day!
Take a Train to Osaka's Kaiyukan Aquarium Area
Kaiyukan is located in the Tempozan Harbor Village area of Osaka.
How to Get There:
From Osaka Station:
Take the JR Osaka Loop Line to Bentencho Station. Then transfer to the Chuo Subway Line and get off at Osakako Station.
From Namba Station:
Take the Midosuji Subway Line to Honmachi Station, transfer to the Chuo Subway Line, and get off at Osakako Station.
Walking Distance: About 5 minutes from Osakako Station to the aquarium.
Visit Kaiyukan Aquarium
Entrance Fee: Around ¥2,700 for adults.
Kaiyukan features incredible marine life, including whale sharks, giant manta rays, and sea otters.
What to Do:
✔ Walk through the 8-story central tank to see marine life from different levels.
✔ Visit the Arctic zone with seals and penguins.
✔ See the playful sea otters and jellyfish displays.
✔ Stop by the interactive touch pool.
✔ Check out the scheduled feeding shows (check timings at entrance).
Traveler’s Tip: Allow 2–3 hours for a full visit.
Explore Tempozan Marketplace
Walking Distance: Right next to Kaiyukan
Tempozan Marketplace is a shopping and entertainment complex with many stores and attractions.
What to Do:
✔ Shop for souvenirs and local snacks.
✔ Visit the Legoland Discovery Center (great for kids).
✔ Browse local craft shops and pop-up stores.
✔ Walk along the Tempozan Harbor area for nice harbor views.
Ride the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel
Entrance Fee: About ¥800.
It is one of the world’s largest Ferris wheels, offering great views of Osaka Bay, Mount Ikoma, and even Kansai Airport on a clear day.
What to Do:
✔ Enjoy a 15-minute ride with panoramic views.
✔ Try a see-through cabin for extra excitement.
✔ Take photos of the Osaka skyline.
Lunch Time Options Near Kaiyukan
After your morning adventures, it’s time for lunch. Here are some options:
Kuma Kafe - Cheerful cafe featuring quirky decor with many teddy bears, plus comfort food like burgers & pizza.
Akarenga Steak House –Grilled, global dishes served in a romantic, vintage-themed restaurant with live piano concerts.
Vegetarian Options:
Mother Moon Café Tempozan – Salads, pasta, and vegetarian-friendly desserts.
Green Earth Osaka (10-15 mins by taxi) – Full vegetarian menu with Japanese and Western dishes.
Visit Osaka Culturarium at Tempozan
Entrance Fee: Varies depending on exhibit
This museum often features interesting art and science exhibitions.
What to Do:
✔ Explore rotating art and cultural exhibits.
✔ Enjoy hands-on displays if available.
✔ Check current exhibit schedule before your visit.
Evening Visit to Universal CityWalk
Travel Time: 15 minutes by taxi or subway.
If you have extra energy, visit Universal CityWalk near Universal Studios Japan.
What to Do:
✔ Browse shops with Universal Studio merchandise.
✔ Try themed cafes and restaurants.
✔ Take a photo with the giant Universal Studios globe.
Dinner Options Near Kaiyukan or Osaka Bay Area
Three Broomsticks – British restaurant
Vegetarian Options:
Greens – Buffet restaurant
Vegan Options:
Paprika Shokudo Vegan (again, highly recommended if you can make it)
The Fire – Upscale vegan-friendly restaurant with organic ingredients.
Return to Your Hotel
After dinner, head back to your hotel to rest and get ready for more Osaka adventures tomorrow!
- Visit Kaiyukan Aquarium1-chōme-1-10 Kaigandōri, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
- Explore Tempozan Marketplace1-chōme-1-10 Kaigandōri, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
- Ride the Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel1-chōme-1-10 Kaigandōri, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
- Visit Osaka Culturarium at Tempozan1-chōme-5-10 Kaigandōri, Minato Ward, Osaka, 552-0022, Japan
- Walk Around Osaka Bay AreaOsaka Bay, Japan
- Evening Visit to Universal CityWalk6-chōme-2-61 Shimaya, Konohana Ward, Osaka, 554-0024, Japan
Osaka Day Guides
