Shirahama Aquarium Kyoto University
A research-driven aquarium showcasing unique marine life, from vibrant fish to rare invertebrates, at an unbeatable price.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Shirahama Aquarium Kyoto University
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A research-driven aquarium showcasing unique marine life, from vibrant fish to rare invertebrates, at an unbeatable price.
"Highly recommend and very useful for the ticket price, loved this!"
🎯 Easy Access by Bus
Take the bus to Rinkai stop for the most convenient access to the aquarium.
💰 Incredible Value for Money
At just 500 yen, the admission price is a fantastic deal for the experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Entrance Aquarium
Main Entrance
A surprisingly large and impressive aquarium greets you, setting a high bar for the rest of your visit.
Unique Invertebrate Collection
Exhibition Halls
Discover a fascinating array of sea snails and crabs rarely seen in other aquariums.
Vivid Tropical Fish Displays
Exhibition Halls
Be mesmerized by the vibrant colors and graceful movements of tropical fish in their tanks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Peaceful Visit
Affordable Admission, Big Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Easy Access by Bus
Take the bus to Rinkai stop for the most convenient access to the aquarium.
💰 Incredible Value for Money
At just 500 yen, the admission price is a fantastic deal for the experience.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Visitors can take advantage of free parking, making it easier for those driving.
🐠 See Unusual Marine Life
Don't miss the unique collection of sea snails and crustaceans.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Easy Access by Bus
Take the bus to Rinkai stop for the most convenient access to the aquarium.
💰 Incredible Value for Money
At just 500 yen, the admission price is a fantastic deal for the experience.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Visitors can take advantage of free parking, making it easier for those driving.
🐠 See Unusual Marine Life
Don't miss the unique collection of sea snails and crustaceans.
📸 Relaxing Aquarium Views
Watching the fish swim is a wonderfully relaxing experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Shirahama Aquarium Kyoto University for its exceptional value, unique marine life, and surprisingly grand entrance. While small, it's packed with fascinating species like sea snails and crabs, offering a peaceful and educational experience at a very low cost. Some find it gets crowded during peak holidays.
"A smaller (but by no means too small) aquarium commissioned by Kyoto University which showcases many fish, invertebrates, crustaceans, etc, not seen elsewhere. A wide range of things to look at and experience. The large aquarium behind the entrance doors is a surprising treat and a fantastic welcome to the museum. Very professional and very well presented, don't miss it !"
Gazumi
"Best place for day with an Aquarium. Highly recommend and very useful for the ticket price 🙂. Ticket price also very cheap and I loved this 😃"
Thanuri Dhananja
"If you like sea snails and invertebrates, definitely come here. This aquarium keeps lots of crabs and sea snails, which you won’t be able to see in most other aquariums. Besides, you get in for only 500 yen, which is just a great deal."
Harry Leonardo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach the aquarium is by bus. The nearest bus stop is 'Rinkai', which is a short walk from the entrance.
Yes, free parking is available for visitors, making it a convenient option if you are traveling by car.
Yes, it's generally easy to find, especially if you use the 'Rinkai' bus stop as a landmark. The impressive entrance aquarium is a good indicator you've arrived.
Depending on your starting point, walking might be an option, but public transport like the bus is often recommended for ease of access. Check local transport maps for details.
From Kyoto city, you can take a train to Kyoto Station and then transfer to a bus heading towards the Shirahama area. Confirm bus routes and schedules in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is very affordable, typically around 500 yen, making it a great value for money.
Advance booking is usually not required, especially on weekdays. However, during peak holiday seasons, it's wise to check their official website for any booking recommendations.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Kyoto University Shirahama Aquarium website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While the standard admission is already very low, keep an eye on their website or local tourism information for any potential group discounts or special offers.
The Japan Rail Pass typically covers JR train lines. You would likely need to use local buses or other transport methods for the final leg to the aquarium, which may not be covered by the pass.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a wide variety of fish, including tropical species, as well as a unique collection of invertebrates like sea snails and crabs.
Yes, children often love the aquarium, especially the diverse marine life and the impressive entrance tank.
A visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and interest in the exhibits. It's a manageable size for a relaxed exploration.
While specific shows might not be a primary feature, the aquarium offers marine ecology tours led by researchers, providing an educational experience.
It can get crowded during holidays and weekends, but it's often less packed than other major tourist attractions, offering a more peaceful experience. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signs or rules regarding flash photography, especially near sensitive exhibits.
The large entrance aquarium is a stunning spot for photos. The diverse tanks showcasing colorful fish and unique invertebrates also make for great shots. 
While tripods might be restricted in crowded areas, standard handheld cameras and smartphones are usually fine. Be mindful of other visitors.
The lighting is designed to showcase the marine life, which can sometimes be dim. Using a camera with good low-light performance or adjusting your phone's settings can help capture better photos.
Yes, many visitors enjoy photographing the unique species like the pufferfish. Just be quick and respectful of the animals and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With its very affordable ticket price and the availability of free parking, it's an accessible and budget-friendly outing. The manageable size of the aquarium means younger children are less likely to get overwhelmed, and the engaging exhibits can keep them entertained for a good couple of hours. Visiting on a weekday can help ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine this with free parking if you're driving, and the overall expense for a visit is very low. It's a perfect option for adding a memorable experience to your itinerary without breaking the bank, especially when compared to other tourist attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Appeal of Kyoto University's Shirahama Aquarium
Visitors often remark on the surprising quality and variety of the exhibits, especially considering the aquarium's modest size and incredibly affordable admission fee. The grand aquarium behind the entrance doors is frequently highlighted as a spectacular welcome, immediately immersing guests in the underwater world. This thoughtful presentation, combined with the opportunity to see unique marine creatures, makes it a highly recommended stop for both casual visitors and marine enthusiasts.
The aquarium's location and affiliation with Kyoto University also lend it an air of academic credibility. While it provides a delightful visual experience, it also serves as a window into the ongoing marine research conducted by the university. This blend of public engagement and scientific exploration sets it apart, offering a more nuanced appreciation of marine biodiversity.
Navigating Your Visit: Practical Tips from Visitors
When it comes to the visit itself, the low admission price of 500 yen is consistently praised as exceptional value. This affordability makes it an attractive option for families and budget-conscious travelers. While the aquarium is not overly large, it is packed with diverse exhibits, so allocating 1-2 hours is generally sufficient for a thorough exploration.
To make the most of your visit, consider going during weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere. While it can get busy during holidays, many visitors find it less overwhelming than other major attractions. The opportunity to see unusual marine life, like the unique crabs and sea snails, is a recurring highlight mentioned by visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit