Otaru Aquarium
Meet northern marine life in open-air sea enclosures at Hokkaido’s largest aquarium
Home to around 250 species and 5,000 marine animals, this is the largest aquarium in Hokkaido. One of its most distinctive features is its dynamic outdoor enclosures, created by sectioning off parts of the natural sea—offering a rare opportunity to observe marine animals in an environment close to their natural habitat.
Located in the Shukutsu district of Otaru, the aquarium showcases a rich variety of life from northern seas, rivers, and lakes. Inside, colorful fish glide gracefully through the water, while soft light filtering through the tanks shimmers across the surface, creating a calm and soothing atmosphere.
The highlight is the Marine Animal Park, where seals, sea lions, and walruses live in spacious seaside enclosures. You can watch them bask on the rocks or plunge powerfully into the sea, displaying behaviors rarely seen in conventional aquariums. The deep calls of sea lions echo across the area, mingling with the sound of splashing waves and the fresh scent of the ocean.
Dolphin and sea lion performances bring you even closer to the action, with splashes reaching into the audience and showcasing the animals’ strength and agility. With seasonal programs that change throughout the year, each visit offers a new experience.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- With friends
- Family
- Travel style
- Zoos and botanical gardens, aquariums, amusement parks
- Theme parks, tourist facilities
- Travel Inspiration
- Have fun with the kids
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒047-0047
- Address
- 北海道小樽市祝津3丁目303
- Telephone Number
- 0134-33-1400
- Open
- 9:00-17:00 (subject to seasonal changes)
- Closed
- Open all year round during the operating period ・Open all year round, even during the year-end and New Year's holidays
- Car Park
- 1,000 spaces, charged * Free of charge during the winter season
- Directions
- ●By bus: About 25 minutes from JR Otaru Ekimae Terminal
●By car: About 20 minutes from Sasson Expwy Otaru IC - Website
- Remarks
- Penguin, seal, dolphin, walrus, and Steller sea lion programs are available.
Please check the official website for the schedule.
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
