Kagoshima Aquarium

Must Do Experiences

• Witness the majestic whale sharks gliding gracefully in the massive Kuroshio Current tank.

• Catch the lively and educational daily dolphin performances at the outdoor Dolphin Pool.

• Explore the interactive Touch Pool to get hands-on with local starfish and sea urchins.

• Stroll through the Coral Reef exhibit to admire the kaleidoscope of colorful tropical fish native to Kagoshima's waters.

Hidden Gems

• Head to the fifth-floor observation deck for a spectacular, uncrowded panoramic view of the active Sakurajima Volcano across Kinko Bay.

• Look for the rare and elusive Satsuma-ha-uo tucked away in the local coastal fish exhibits.

• Visit the deep-sea creature gallery to discover bizarre and fascinating bioluminescent species rarely seen in other Japanese aquariums.

What Makes it Special

• It is one of the few aquariums in Japan to successfully house and breed whale sharks, the gentle giants of the ocean.

• The facility is uniquely integrated into the local waterfront, offering seamless indoor-outdoor transitions with breathtaking natural bay views.

• Strong emphasis on the Kuroshio Current ecosystem provides a highly localized and educational look at Kyushu's specific marine biodiversity.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is on a weekday morning right at opening time to enjoy the exhibits with minimal crowds and secure front-row seats for the first dolphin show. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for enjoying the outdoor bay views and the nearby waterfront park, while summer brings lively seasonal events but larger family crowds.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a polarizing filter or press your lens flat against the glass to eliminate glare and reflections when shooting the indoor Kuroshio tank.

• Capture the outdoor Dolphin Pool during the late afternoon golden hour for stunning silhouette shots with the smoking Sakurajima Volcano in the background.

• Remember to turn off your flash completely, as it is strictly forbidden and will result in a warning from the staff.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese aquarium culture places a high value on quiet observation, so please keep your voice down and avoid tapping on the glass enclosures. It is customary to queue neatly for the dolphin shows and interactive touch pools, waiting patiently for your turn without pushing or cutting in line. Tipping the staff or performers is not practiced in Japan and may cause confusion.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Summer Night Aquarium events in July and August feature extended evening hours, special illumination, and exclusive behind-the-scenes night tours.

• Winter Penguin Walks allow visitors to watch the adorable penguins waddle through a specially designed outdoor snow and ice course.

• Seasonal feeding shows and special holiday-themed dolphin performances are held during Golden Week, Obon, and the New Year holidays.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Supervise young children closely around the open-top Touch Pools and outdoor water features to prevent accidental slips or falls.

• Be mindful of the smooth, sometimes wet floors near the aquatic exhibits and wear shoes with good grip.

• If you are visiting during the hot summer months, stay hydrated and utilize the shaded outdoor seating areas to avoid heat exhaustion between indoor and outdoor exhibits.