Suma Aqualife Park in Kobe is a beloved local aquarium with a long history. The park is made up of 11 pavilions, including the main building, each with its own theme. One attraction of this aquarium that both adults and children will enjoy is the ability to feel the sea breeze. This is an interesting aquarium which helps us to think about how we can continue to develop as a society while living in harmony with nature and the environment.
Contents
Plenty of attractions to satisfy!
In this aquarium you can enjoy seeing dolphins, sea otters, seals, and sea lions, as well as a penguin show. During meal time you can listen to a commentary by the staff while watching creatures eat, picking up on many adorable gestures you might not typically see. There is a dolphin show, of course, and you can observe penguins up close during the ‘Penguin Walk’, and smell them, too! It might even change your impression of them!
Observe turtles and think about the future
This aquarium has investigated and researched turtles for a long time. They are conducting extensive research on the sea turtles they keep currently, using it to aid protection of these creatures in the wild. They are also focused on protecting Japan’s native freshwater turtles. There are problems with invasive species, and in this aquarium they have created an area called ‘Turtle Paradise’ with exhibits of the red-eared slider. It is an enjoyable aquarium that also gives you the opportunity to think about nature and life.
Take a hot bath with the capybara on the rooftop!?
Once you are tired of walking, head up to the rooftop observatory! Here you will find the capybara enclosure, which you can view as you soak your feet in a hot foot bath. There is a swimming pool on the other side of the fence and the capybara are sometimes known to hop in for a soak. Why not relax and unwind together? Here you can interact with Doctor Fish and a variety of other creatures in a touching pool.
Getting here
| Address | 1-3-5 Wakamiya-cho Suma-ku Kobe 654-0049 Japan |
| ☎ | 078-731-7301 |
| Access | The aquarium direction page (English) |
Access Map
Admission Tickets, Price
| Fees | General | One-year pass |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (Ages 18+) | 1,300 yen | 3,000 yen |
| High school student (or Ages 15-17) | 800 yen | 2,000 yen |
| Primary & middle school student (or Ages 6-14) | 500 yen | 1,200 yen |
| Child (under 5) | free | — |
Opening Hours & Calendar
| Hours | |
|---|---|
| General | 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Last entry 4:00 p.m. |
| Golden Week holiday | 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Last entry 7:00 p.m. |
| Summer (Jul 20 – Sep 2) | 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Last entry 9:00 p.m. |
| New Year’s Eve (Dec 31) | 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 a.m. Last entry 0:00 a.m. |
| Days closed | Closed on Wednesday from December to February (Except for the New Year’s holiday period and national holidays). There may be additional closing days for construction. |
The schedule may vary. Please check the official website upon visiting.
Official website
FAQs
Nursing Lounge
The aquarium has a nursing room for babies.
Coin lockers
The aquarium has a coin-operated lockers.
Baby stroller rental service
Baby strollers are available free of charge.
Wheelchair rental service
Wheelchairs are available free of charge.
