With kids
Kyoto Aquarium
Kyoto Aquarium sits inside Umekoji Park, a short walk from the Kyoto Railway Museum. It is an inland aquarium with a local focus: the Kyoto River zone recreates the Yura River from source to sea and is home to Japanese giant salamanders, a Special Natural Monument.
Families also love the bottlenose dolphins in an open-air stadium with views over Kyoto, the penguins, seals and fur seals, and a 360-degree jellyfish panorama tank. Most of the route is indoors, with the dolphin stadium open to the sky.
What to see and do
One of the world's largest amphibians, shown in a large Kyoto River exhibit. They're nocturnal, so watch for slow moves and trips up for air.
'Iruka no Gakko' dolphin sessions run several times a day (e.g. 11:30, 13:30, 15:30 on a sample day) in the stadium; check the day's programme.
Cape penguins plus daily feeding times at the big Kyoto Sea tank, the penguin area and Mitette.
About 30 kinds of jellyfish and the 360-degree 'GURURI' panorama tank.
Strollers and babies
Three baby rest rooms with nursing rooms and filtered hot water for formula; 8 diaper-changing tables; child toilets and potty seats. Slopes and elevators throughout for strollers. No stroller rental mentioned.
Good to know
- Home-packed lunches are allowed on the benches at the seal, fur seal, dolphin stadium and Sanshi-Suimei areas — nowhere else inside.
- Combine with the Kyoto Railway Museum in Umekoji Park; there is no aquarium parking, so come by train or bus.