Otaru in Hokkaido is often known for its gorgeous canal and artisan glasswork, but the Otaru Aquarium is also a go-to spot for tourists! One can enjoy a day full of shows by dolphins, sea lions, and seals while enjoying some rare native Hokkaido marine life exhibits.
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Home of Harbour Porpoises
Harbour porpoises are smaller sized ‘dolphins’ that live on the coast of Hokkaido, and Otaru Aquarium is the only place in the country that has an exhibit with multiple porpoises. Much of their ecology is still a mystery, and with the collaboration of Hokkaido University, research on them is now underway. Can you spot the difference between a harbour porpoise and the popular bottlenose dolphin?
The Hokkaido Native Species
At Otaru Aquarium, there are exhibits for exclusive Hokkaido species, such as the Siberian salamander which only resides in the Kushiro wetlands. Otaru Aquarium is the only facility that has been successful in the breeding program for them. The dolly varden trout is also a special type of trout that only exists in Hokkaido, and has beautiful body coloring. Last but not least is a species of pond loach called Lefua nikkonis. Most pond loaches only have 10 whiskers, but can you guess how many this one has?
The largest species of earless seals, the sea lion dives into the ocean!
One of the highlights of Otaru Aquarium is the summertime exclusive sea lion show. In this show, you will be able to witness the colossal 1-ton body of a sea lion plunge into a pool from an all-natural rock platform. Join in on the excitement and don’t miss the opportunity to experience the moments of magic; enjoy watching the expressive sea lions and their interactions with the aquarists!
Surprise guests at the “Marine Mammal Park”
Located right on the coast, Otaru Aquarium features a unique outdoor exhibit called the “Marine Mammal Park” that looks as if it is connected directly to the ocean. Wild seals and sea lions will come to visit and rest on the rocks surrounding the exhibit, giving visitors a chance to see them up close! On special occasions, they will even come past the fences and enter the exhibit area. Such an experience is only available here at Otaru Aquarium.
Getting here
| Address | 3-303 Shukutsu, Otaru-shi, Hokkaido 047-0047 |
| 0166-36-1104 | |
| Access | The aquarium direction page (English) |
Access Map
Admission Tickets, Price
| Fees | General | One-year pass |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | 1,400 yen | 2,800 yen |
| Child (Primary & Middle school student) | 530 yen | 1,060 yen |
| Child (Ages 3+) | 210 yen | 420 yen |
Opening Hours & Calendar
Note: Schedule may vary. Please check the official website.
| Hours | |
|---|---|
| Mar 17 – Oct 15 | 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Last entry 4:30 p.m.) |
| Oct 16 – Nov 25 | 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Last entry 3:30 p.m.) |
| Summer special: Sat, Sun and Mon during Jul 14 – 30, Sat Sun and Mon during Sep 15 – 24 (Schedule may vary). | 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Last entry 7:30 p.m.) |
| Winter: Dec 15 – Feb 24 | 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Last entry 3:30 p.m.) |
| Days closed | Feb 26 – Mar 16, Nov 26 – Dec 14 |
Official website
FAQs
Nursing Lounge
The aquarium has a nursing lounge with two private rooms. Hot water is available for baby formula.
Coin lockers
The aquarium has coin-operated lockers.
Baby stroller rental service
Baby strollers are available free of charge.
Wheelchair rental service
Wheelchairs are available free of charge.
