The Otaru Aquarium (おたる水族館, Otaru-suizokukan) is a small, family-friendly aquarium to the north of Otaru city. First started in 1959 as a ‘Marine Venue”, which featured marine animal shows like Dolphins & seals. The main aquarium building was later constructed in 1974, and it has expanded to one of the largest aquariums in Hokkaido.
Today, the aquarium is home to 260 different species across 5000 animals housed on-site. The Aquarium’s many tanks total over 3.5 million litres (925,000 Gallons). The aquarium consists of the main building, which exhibits a wide variety of fish and shellfish, the ‘Dolphin Stadium’, which features dolphin and sea lion shows, the ‘Marine Park’, where seals, walruses, sea lions, penguins, and other animals are kept.
Outside of the aquarium, you can also find the Otaru Shukuzu Marine Land park, a small family-friendly amusement park with small rides aimed more toward young kids and young families. Rides usually cost 1-2 tickets, and tickets can be purchased for 100 yen each. The park is typically closed during winter, and opens up after the snow has melted away.
Explore Otaru
Top Attractions
Ebisu Rock and Daikoku Rock
Serene Sightseeing Destination
Otaru Canal
A charming port city in Hokkaido.
Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway
Skyline views of Otaru City
Otaru Aquarium
Small aquarium with dolphin and other marine animal shows
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 9:00am - 5:00pm (Normal hours)
- Hours: 10:00am - 4:00pm (Typically around Mid-December through to Mid March Winter Hours)
- 1300 JPY
- Average Time Spent: 1 hour
- Official Website
Accessing the Otaru Aquarium
From JR Otaru Station, the Otaru Aquarium is about a 10-minute drive, which can be done via taxi for about 1000-1500 yen each way. Otherwise, there is a public bus service from JR Otaru Station to the aquarium. Take either the number 10 Bus, the Otaru Suizokukan Sen, or the number 11 Bus, Skukutsu Sen. The Number 10 bus will take 20 minutes from Otaru Station, and the number 11 bus will be about 25 Minutes, and cost 240 yen each way.
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Where to Stay
Hotel Torifito
Modern and fresh hotel found only a short walk to the famous Otaru canal.
Dormy Inn Premium Otaru
Hotel with a stunning indoor hot spring, and super convenient access to JR Otaru Station.
Hotel Nord Otaru
Popular hotel in the heart of Otaru, with great options for those travelling in groups.
