Asia’s Best 10 Aquariums and How to Plan Your Visit

Imagine gazing into a mesmerizing abyss where jellyfish pulse like living lanterns, sharks glide silently overhead, and vibrant coral reefs burst with color—all without getting wet. Aquariums have revolutionized our connection to the ocean’s mysteries, bringing the underwater realm right to our fingertips. For families, they’re an educational goldmine, sparking kids’ curiosity about marine ecosystems they might not explore firsthand—think interactive touch pools and behind-the-scenes tours that turn learning into pure fun.

Even thrill-seekers who crave snorkeling in Bali‘s crystal waters or diving the Great Barrier Reef appreciate the convenience of spotting rare species like manta rays or endangered sea turtles up close, no gear required.

As a passionate traveler who’s wandered Asia’s coasts and cities, I find aquarium visits profoundly therapeutic—the gentle sway of sea life melts away stress, offering a serene escape in bustling metropolises. In 2025, Asia boasts some of the world’s most innovative aquariums, from Singapore’s record-breaking S.E.A. Aquarium (home to over 100,000 animals) to Japan’s cutting-edge facilities blending tech with conservation. With rising eco-awareness, many now emphasize sustainability, like recycled water systems and rescue programs. Here, I’ll share my handpicked favorites, plus insider tips—from beating crowds with timed tickets to pairing visits with nearby attractions—for crafting unforgettable, hassle-free trips that wow every time.

#10 Aquaria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur

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Nestled beneath the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in the heart of KLCC, right near the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, Aquaria KLCC is a compact yet captivating oceanarium that’s perfect for families and marine enthusiasts.

The highlights: One of Malaysia’s largest aquariums at 60,000 square feet with over 5,000 creatures, featuring the country’s longest underwater tunnel at 90 meters, where sharks, turtles, and stingrays swim overhead in a mesmerizing display.

Must-see: The sand tiger sharks gliding through the tunnel alongside schools of fish, and the giant Pacific octopus in its standalone tank—its intelligent movements left me utterly awestruck during my visit.

Like many modern aquariums, Aquaria KLCC packs a punch in its modest scale, offering an immersive journey through themed zones that showcase underwater landscapes at different depths.

The path starts in the highlands with amphibious critters like coatimundis, transitions to the Evolution Zone and Shipwreck area, floods into the Amazon-inspired Forest, surges to the Living Ocean, and ends at the Weird & Wonderful zone with bioluminescent fish in neon-lit tubes.

In 2025, exciting additions include the Coral Adoption Program launched in June with Universiti Malaysia Terengganu for reef conservation, plus interactive touch pools with starfish and horseshoe crabs—perfect for hands-on learning. I was very lucky to visit on a gorgeous summer day, where the vibrant exhibits felt even more alive under the natural light filtering in, reigniting my passion for the ocean’s mysteries.

Where is it and when to visit: Connected via Rapid KL’s LRT at KLCC Station (KJ10) or bus to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre—a quick 5-10 minute walk from either. Open daily from 10am to 8pm, with last entry at 7pm; extended hours on weekends, holidays, and school breaks.

How to plan your visit: KLCC buzzes with energy—pair your aquarium trip with a stroll in KLCC Park for morning views of the Twin Towers, shopping at Suria KLCC mall, or ascending the world’s highest skybridge at Petronas for panoramic cityscapes. Book tickets online (from RM69 for adults, discounts for MyKad holders) to skip lines; aim for mid-week mornings to avoid crowds. Pro tip: If it’s your birthday month, Malaysians enjoy free entry from August 2025 onward—plan accordingly for that therapeutic underwater escape!

Having said that, Malaysia is a beach paradise with lots of locations to do some “serious” snorkeling and scuba diving. For more about planning beach hopping in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, visit here.

#9 Maxell Aqua Park, Shinagawa

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Tucked inside the Shinagawa Prince Hotel in Tokyo’s bustling Shinagawa district, between Tokyo and Yokohama, Maxell Aqua Park is a compact, high-tech aquarium blending marine wonders with entertainment in a hotel complex featuring a stadium for dolphin shows.

The highlights: A state-of-the-art, immersive facility covering about 11,500 square meters with over 20,000 creatures from 350 species, renowned for its integration of sound, light, and visuals in exhibits and performances since its 2015 renovation and 2017 renaming.

Must-see: The ethereal Jellyfish Ramble with glowing displays, and the dynamic Dolphin Show at The Stadium, where leaps sync with lighting and music for a captivating spectacle.

Originally opened in 2005 and revamped in 2015, this urban aqua park packs 11 zones across two floors despite its modest size compared to larger counterparts.

Ground floor includes (1) Park Entrance with seasonal projections, (2) Magical Ground for interactive fun, (3) Coral Café Bar for themed drinks, and (4) Jellyfish Ramble‘s hypnotic tunnels. Upper floor features (5) Little Paradise with colorful fish, (6) Wonder Tube’s shark tunnel, (7) Life Museum of aquatic ecosystems, (8) Aqua Jungle with reptiles, (9) Wild Street for mammals, (10) Friendly Square for close encounters, and (11) the Stadium.

The variety impressed me—not just goldfish, lizards, and turtles, but rare sights like sea lions, penguins, sharks, stingrays, otters, and seals (though I wished the enclosures offered more space for them to roam).

Jellyfish Ramble was a therapeutic highlight, but the real wow came from fitting a massive indoor stadium into the building—something you rarely see in aquariums. Two daily dolphin shows last about 20 minutes each in the 25-meter circular pool; arrive early for seats as crowds build quickly.

The performance I caught was tastefully executed with professional lighting, music, and a water screen backdrop enhancing the dolphins’ leaps—it wasn’t long, but left a lasting impression. For another Tokyo option, check GA☆KYO (UWS Aquarium GA☆KYO) in Odaiba, showcasing goldfish in traditional Japanese-themed setups ideal for Instagram snaps.

Where is it and when to visit: Inside Shinagawa Prince Hotel, directly across from JR Shinagawa Station—a key hub for Shinkansen high-speed trains. Open daily 10am-9pm (last entry 8pm), with potential adjustments for maintenance like Sept 2, 2025 closures; check official site for updates.

How to plan your visit: Shinagawa’s prime spot makes it a smart stopover between Tokyo and Yokohama/Kawasaki, or near Haneda Airport for transit layovers. Pair with hotel amenities like movies at T-Joy or pool dips; book tickets online (from ¥2,500 adults, fee changes Sept 6, 2025) to skip lines, and time for mid-afternoon shows to beat peak crowds. Pro tip: In 2025, catch collaborations like Lions Festivals for themed events—perfect for a few hours of aquatic magic before your flight.

For more about what to see and do in Tokyo this year? Visit here. Tokyo’s day trip ideas visit here.

#8 SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World, Bangkok

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Nestled in the basement of Siam Paragon, one of Bangkok’s premier shopping malls, SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is an indoor underwater haven drawing crowds to the city’s bustling heart for a cool, convenient peek at marine life.

The highlights: Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium at 10,000 square meters with over 30,000 creatures from 400+ species, featuring immersive tunnels and seasonal events like the Baby Shark Deep Sea Carnival (through September 30, 2025), blending fun with ocean education.

Must-see: The ancient nautilus in its rocky habitat and majestic sharks cruising the massive tanks—their graceful power left me mesmerized during my visit, a stark contrast to Bangkok’s chaotic streets above.

Formerly Siam Ocean World, since its 2005 opening, this pioneering aquarium was built as part of a shopping-entertainment complex to attract urban explorers to Bangkok’s busiest district. It showcases diverse sea lif,e including jellyfish, sea turtles, penguins, otters, and stingrays. The indoor setup is a lifesaver with air conditioning providing comfort amid Thailand’s heat, yet it delivers thrills like the 270-degree glass tunnel where fish swarm overhead, jackass penguin feedings, a 4D movie theater, glass-bottom boat rides over shark lagoons, and rotating art exhibitions—though the Living Art: The Art of Camouflage has wrapped, current tie-ins like Baby Shark add playful camouflage themes for 2025 families. I found the variety impressive for city-center convenience, making it therapeutic to unwind watching otters play after mall hopping.

Where is it and when to visit: In Siam Paragon’s basement, directly connected to the BTS at Siam Station (intersection of Silom and Sukhumvit lines). Open daily 10am-8pm, last entry 7pm; check for holiday adjustments.

How to plan your visit: Amid Bangkok’s shopping mecca, combine with Siam Paragon’s stores, eateries, or nearby Siam Discovery, Central World, and Siam Square—all walkable for a packed day. Book online (from THB 990 adults) to skip queues; visit mid-morning for fewer crowds and penguin feeds—ideal if time’s tight, blending shopping, food, and aquatic fun.

For new and trendy hotspots to visit in Bangkok this year, visit here.

#7 Lotte World Aquarium and SEA LIFE COEX, Seoul

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Pairing two stellar aquariums in Seoul’s vibrant Gangnam area, COEX Aquarium (now SEA LIFE COEX) and Lotte World Aquarium sit inside massive malls—Starfield COEX and Lotte World Mall—offering urban escapes with marine magic amid shopping and thrills.

The highlights: Among Seoul’s most modern and expansive aquariums, together showcasing over 650 species and 95,000+ animals in immersive, themed zones perfect for families seeking air-conditioned wonder in bustling malls.

Must-see: The sinister school of piranhas at COEX, their razor-sharp teeth a shocking sight that left me wide-eyed, and the ray and beluga feedings at Lotte—watching the gentle giants glide in was pure joy during my visit.

I’m bundling these two because they’re both in Seoul and just a short subway ride apart (about 10-15 minutes via Line 2). COEX Mall has transformed dramatically since my earlier trips—now a hotspot with hotels, shops, entertainment, and the high-speed train station linking Gangnam to Incheon Airport. The futuristic Starfield Library, with its two-story floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, has become an Instagram must, blending culture and vibes. COEX Aquarium, opened in 2000 and freshly renovated, claims Seoul’s largest status at 10,000 square meters, home to 650 species and 40,000 creatures like sharks, turtles, stingrays, electric eels, octopuses, and jellyfish. I witnessed its evolution into a connected hub with the COEX Convention Center.

Lotte World Mall is like a self-contained Disneyland, boasting the world’s largest indoor theme park plus outdoor Magic Island on an artificial lake, linked by monorail. The aquarium, opened in 2014 as Korea’s largest, spans 13 habitats with 650 species and 55,000 sea creatures from global waters—often overshadowed by the parks, but its ocean ecology tank and underwater tunnel are standouts. In 2025, both spots shine with updates like COEX’s interactive eco-programs and Lotte’s beluga conservation talks, adding depth to the fun.

Where is it and when to visit: COEX Aquarium in Starfield COEX Mall, Gangnam, connected to Samseong (Line 2) and Bongeunsa (Line 9) stations; open daily 10am-8pm. Lotte World Aquarium in Lotte World Mall, at Jamsil Station (Lines 2 & 8); open 10am-9pm weekdays, extended weekends.

How to plan your visit: COEX’s City Airport Terminal (CALT) offers one-stop airline check-in, immigration, and non-stop limousine buses to Incheon (KRW 18,000, ~65min)—ideal pre-flight stopover. Explore Starfield Library, COEX Artium, My Art Museum, or Bongeunsa Temple nearby. For Lotte, time ray feedings (daily schedules online) and beluga views—combine with theme park rides for a full day. Book combo tickets online (COEX ~KRW 29,000 adults; Lotte ~KRW 34,000) to save; visit mid-week for lighter crowds and that therapeutic marine immersion.

It takes more time to cover Lotte World, together with its hotel, folk museum, movies, entertainment facilities, and theme parks. This is where SeoulSky (the world’s 5th tallest building) is located. The mall regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions or events, and therefore, plan at least a day or two if you want to cover the key attractions.

For more about COEX’s Starfield Library and many other Instagram and art places in Seoul, visit here.

#6 National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium, Pingtung, Taiwan

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Perched on Taiwan’s southern coast in Checheng Township, the National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium (NMMBA) doubles as a premier research hub and visitor attraction, unveiling ocean history and ecosystems across vast exhibits.

The highlights: A dedicated showcase of Taiwan’s native marine life, plus an adjacent outdoor water park for splashy fun, all spanning nearly 97 hectares, including research facilities.

Must-see: Diverse native aquatic species from cuttlefish to whale sharks in the Waters of Taiwan pavilion, and the graceful beluga whales in their dedicated exhibit—their playful swims left me enchanted during my sunny visit.

Opened in 2000, this sprawling site covers about 35.8 hectares for the aquarium alone, with three core pavilions: Waters of Taiwan, Coral Kingdom, and World Waters. The first immerses you in local biodiversity—surprisingly rich for an island, featuring yellowfin tuna, spotted eagle rays, and even whale sharks—highlighted by an 84-meter underwater tunnel where sharks glide overhead.

The breaching whale fountain at the entrance is a signature photo op that welcomed me with a refreshing mist. Coral Kingdom layers reef habitats from shallow to deep, alive with blacktip reef sharks, lionfish, moray eels, cownose rays, unicornfish, and butterflyfish, plus a separate beluga area and another glass tunnel for intimate views. World Waters explores global oceans with exotic species.

In 2025, the new immersive “Arctic Journey 66.5 Degrees” exhibition adds polar thrills, glimpsing Arctic marine life and climate impacts—perfect for educational depth. I found the layered designs therapeutic, transporting me from Taiwan’s shores to abyssal wonders, far beyond expectations.

Where is it and when to visit: At No. 2 Houwan Rd., Checheng, Pingtung County, about 100km south of Kaohsiung near Hengchun and Kenting. Best by car; buses run from Kaohsiung (via Kenting Express, ~2hrs) or Kenting (~30min). Open daily: Jan-Jun/Sep-Dec 9am-5:30pm; Jul-Aug weekdays 9am-6pm, weekends/holidays 8am-6pm; Lunar New Year specials apply.

How to plan your visit: Kenting, Taiwan’s southern tip, is a vacation paradise with beaches, diverse landscapes, night markets, themed stays, and scuba spots. While Spring Wave Music Festival has moved to Taichung in October 2025, Kenting hosts Spring Scream rock fest April 3-5—timing your trip then amps the energy.

Book tickets online (NT$450 adults, NT$250 concessions, free under 6) to skip lines; allocate 4-6 hours, pairing with water park dips or Kenting beach days for a full underwater-to-surface getaway. Pro tip: Visit mid-week for quieter tunnels and that immersive ocean calm.

For more about what to see and do in Kenting, including the Spring Wave music festival, visit here. Interested in Southern Taiwan’s art scene? Visit here.

#5 S.E.A. Aquarium, Singapore

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Housed within Resorts World Sentosa on vibrant Sentosa Island, the Singapore Oceanarium—rebranded from S.E.A. Aquarium in July 2025—immerses visitors in oceanic wonders through innovative storytelling and conservation-focused exhibits.

The highlights: Once the world’s largest by water volume (a title lost in 2014), it holds 45 million liters across 22 immersive zones blending digital innovation with marine habitats, spotlighting conservation and research via the new Research and Learning Centre.

Must-see: The diverse shark species like silvertip and sandbar sharks in massive tanks—their powerful glides overhead in tunnels left me in awe during my visit, a thrilling contrast to the serene jellyfish drifts.

S.E.A. stands for South East Asia, and while Chimelong Ocean Kingdom overtook its record, this revamped oceanarium still boasts over 100,000 animals from 1,000+ species. What sets it apart is the engaging design: perfect lighting, intuitive routes, and guidance that draw you into global “sea” habitats. Explore pompano, napoleon wrasse, and batfish in Java Sea; garden eels, clownfish, and reef lobsters in Laccadive Sea; jellyfish, giant spider crabs, sally lightfoot crabs, and blue-spotted stingrays in Open Ocean and Ocean Journey; longhorn cowfish and fairy basslet in Red Sea; frontosa and African tigerfish in East Africa; squirrelfish, soldierfish, and moray eels in South China Sea. The shark tank remains the most impressive, evoking a deep-sea adventure.

In 2025, post-reopening on July 24 after a three-month transformation, new immersive zones emphasize ocean’s past, present, and future, with activities like curator-led tours and eco-programs—therapeutic for unwinding amid Singapore’s buzz.

Where is it and when to visit: At Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island; access via MRT to VivoCity then Sentosa Express monorail, or by bus, car, cable car, or footbridge from mainland. Open daily 10am-7pm; check for holiday adjustments.

How to plan your visit: Sentosa brims with action—pair the oceanarium with Universal Studios Singapore nearby for a full day (or two) of thrills. As an activity lover, I recommend it as a cool break from outdoor adventures like beaches or zip lines. Book tickets online (from SGD 35, SG residents discounts) to skip queues; aim for mid-mornings to beat crowds and catch feeding sessions for that engaging underwater escape.

For more about the exciting outdoor activities in Singapore, visit here.

#4 Ocean Park, Hong Kong

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Perched on Hong Kong Island’s southern slopes, Ocean Park blends thrilling rides, marine education, and animal encounters in a sprawling theme park that’s been a local favorite since 1977.

The highlights: Asia’s top-10 amusement park with educational marine mammal exhibits and a storied history; its water shows remain crowd-pleasers, now enhanced by conservation-focused programs at the Marine Mammal Breeding and Research Centre.

Must-see: Playful sea lions and seals during interactive sessions—their energetic antics and clever tricks were a highlight of my visit, evoking pure joy amid the park’s ocean vibes.

As one of Asia’s pioneering marine-themed parks, Ocean Park spans 915,000 square meters across Waterfront and Summit sections, linked by iconic cable cars offering stunning South China Sea views. Beyond rides like roller coasters and water adventures, key aquariums showcase sharks, penguins, sea lions, seals, and manatees. The Grand Aquarium, a four-story marvel, teems with 5,000 fish including clownfish, lionfish, bluefin tuna, and whale sharks, plus delicate seahorses, garden eels, and jellyfish—watching them sway felt therapeutic, a serene escape from the city’s hustle.

In 2025, fresh additions include the Giant Panda Museum opening mid-year for deeper wildlife insights, and Animal Discovery Fest with guided tours at the dolphin care headquarters, emphasizing research and rescue. I remember the cable car’s classic thrill soaring over lush hills, a wow moment that etched Hong Kong’s rugged beauty in my mind.

Where is it and when to visit: On southern Hong Kong Island at 180 Wong Chuk Hang Road, Aberdeen; direct MTR access via Ocean Park Station (South Island Line), or buses from Admiralty/Causeway Bay. Open daily 10am-7:30pm (Summit closes 7:30pm), with extended hours during holidays; check for August 15, 2025, panda exhibit adjustments.

How to plan your visit: The cable cars are a must for panoramic ocean vistas—hikers, try the easy Brick Hill (Nam Long Shan) trail below for enchanting sea views. With more time, explore southern districts like Stanley’s markets, Repulse Bay beaches, or Wong Chuk Hang’s street art. Book tickets online (HK$498 adults, HK$249 kids 3-11) for fast entry; visit mid-week to dodge crowds and catch sea lion shows—pair with nearby adventures for a full-day immersion in nature and fun.

For more about Hong Kong’s incredible and free viewpoints around the harbor, visit here.

#3 Churaumi Aquarium, Okinawa

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Nestled in Ocean Expo Park on Okinawa’s northern coast, Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium—formerly Okinawa Ocean Expo Aquarium—stands as Japan’s premier marine showcase, blending cutting-edge research with breathtaking displays.

The highlights: Japan’s largest aquarium with advanced breeding tech for whale sharks and reef manta rays; its massive Kuroshio Sea tank, one of the world’s biggest, draws over 3.6 million visitors yearly.

Must-see: Majestic whale sharks and reef manta rays gliding in the open-sea tank, plus gentle manatees—the sheer scale of the sharks left me spellbound during my visit, feeling like a true underwater voyage.

Opened in 2002 after rebuilding the 1975 original, Churaumi once held the world’s largest title until Georgia Aquarium in 2005, then Asia’s until surpassed by spots in Bangkok, Singapore, and Zhuhai. It remains Japan’s biggest at 19,000 square meters with 77 tanks holding 10,000 cubic meters of water. Its fame stems from pioneering breeding: first to raise multiple whale sharks in captivity and breed reef manta rays, the largest of their kind. The 24-foot-deep Kuroshio tank, with continuous seawater flow, hosts giants like whale sharks, reef and oceanic manta rays. Other stars include dolphins, belugas, manatees, penguins, and a stadium for dolphin shows—therapeutic to watch amid Okinawa’s tropical vibes.

In 2025, highlights include the IPFC12 Satellite symposium June 15 on fish conservation, summer fireworks July 5, and extended August hours with evening discounts.

Where is it and when to visit: At 424 Ishikawa, Motobu-cho, Okinawa—near Nago in the north. Open daily 8:30am-6:30pm (last entry 5:30pm); peak extensions July 19-31/August 1-31 to 8pm (last entry 7pm), plus specials like August 2-5 Marine Hiromi events.

How to plan your visit: From Naha (90km away), drive ~2 hours along scenic coasts passing beaches like Manza, Koki, and Emerald. Make it a day trip with Nago Castle Park or Pineapple Park. Book tickets online (¥2,180 adults) to avoid lines; mid-mornings beat crowds for serene viewing—pair with park trails for a full Okinawa immersion.

For more about how to plan an exciting travel itinerary in Okinawa, visit here.

#2 Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, Zhuhai/Macau

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Sprawling across Hengqin Island near Macau, Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is a record-breaking marine theme park blending thrilling rides, spectacular shows, and diverse animal exhibits in China’s ambitious “Orlando of the East.”

The highlights: Holds Guinness World Records for the largest aquarium tank, acrylic viewing window (39.6m x 8.3m), and underwater dome; its Whale Shark exhibit dazzles with massive scale, while the park ranks 6th globally in attendance with 12.52 million visitors in 2023.

Must-see: Adorable polar bears swimming overhead in underwater tunnels—their playful dives from different angles were my favorite, though I wished for quieter moments amid the crowds to fully appreciate their majesty.

Part of Chimelong Group’s top-10 global empire (behind Disney, Merlin, Universal, etc.), this 2014-opened park on Hengqin drew record crowds as the world’s most-visited water park initially. Within the vast Chimelong International Ocean Resort—spanning theme parks, hotels, and entertainment—the first phase cost over RMB 10 billion, evolving into a mega-destination. While not yet rivaling Orlando, its world-class builds exceeded my expectations.

Filtering out noisy families, I found therapeutic beauty in the creatures’ serene moments—seeing so many rare animals in one spot was a wow. Rides like the giant log flume, Parrot Coaster (world’s longest wing coaster), and bumper cars thrill, capped by fireworks, lasers, and fountain shows at closing.

The “Ocean Kingdom” name belies its diversity: polar bears (lots!), penguins, brown bears, belugas, manatees, dolphins, whale sharks, seals, sea lions, walruses, birds, and a mega-tank with millions of fish. (I hope they’re well-cared for amid conservation efforts.) Beluga and polar bear exhibits shone with multi-angle views—brown bears begging cutely on cliffs, penguins chasing sillily through glass.

Where is Hengqin Island?

Hengqin is a newly developed district in Zhuhai and a new getaway destination for locals in Macau. Hengqin is an island in Zhuhai, a city in the Guangdong province of Southern China. The island had a population of 3,000 and it is about 100 sq.km in size. In 2009, part of the Island is leased to Macau by China, and the whole island is designated a special economic district, similar to Binhai New Area in Tianjin and Pudong New Area in Shanghai.

In 2025, adjacent Chimelong Spaceship adds the world’s largest aquarium (75M liters), enhancing the resort with new science zones and rides—perfect for extended stays.

Where is it and when to visit: On Hengqin Island, Zhuhai (closer to Macau); access via shuttle from Macau ferry terminals or Zhuhai borders. Open daily 10am-8:30pm; best October-February for milder weather, avoiding summer heat.

How to plan your visit: Make it a day trip from Macau, savoring the city’s Sino-Portuguese food scene—think egg tarts and African chicken. Book tickets online (RMB 495 adults) for fast entry; use the app for real-time wait times and show schedules. Pro tip: Arrive early mid-week to dodge crowds, starting with polar horizons for that immersive calm before rides and evening spectacles.

For more about Macau’s food scene and what to eat there, visit here.

#1 Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Osaka

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Standing proudly by Osaka Bay in the lively harbor district, Kaiyukan is a standalone aquatic powerhouse that checks every box for Asia’s top aquarium, blending innovation, education, and sheer scale since its 1990 debut.

The highlights: Once the world’s largest upon opening, it boasts a storied legacy with over 80 million cumulative visitors by 2025, featuring massive tanks like the 9-meter-deep Pacific Ocean exhibit and creative displays that educate on marine ecosystems.

Must-see: Majestic whale sharks cruising the vast tanks and playful penguins waddling in their icy habitat—watching the sharks’ graceful movements up close during my spring visit felt utterly mesmerizing, a true highlight amid the bay breeze.

After 35 years, Kaiyukan remains one of Asia’s most visited, drawing 3-4 million annually with 30,000 animals from 620 species, including fish, otters, sea lions, and penguins. Its signature whale sharks symbolize the innovative presentation—tanks mimic the Pacific Rim’s natural flow, guiding visitors spiraling down from surface to depths for an engaging, educational journey.

In 2025, the “Coral: The Life of Life” special exhibition (from March 5) spotlights vibrant reefs with live corals and interactive elements, tying into Osaka Expo themes.

Next to Tempozan Harbor Village, it pairs perfectly with the giant Ferris wheel for panoramic views, boutique shops, restaurants, and bay activities—therapeutic to unwind here after urban exploration.

Where is it and when to visit: At 1-1-10 Kaigandori, Minato-ku, Osaka— a colorful waterfront landmark walkable from Osakako Station (Chuo Line). Open year-round, typically 10am-8pm (last entry 7pm), with extensions during holidays; spring (cherry blossom season) is my favorite for milder crowds and blooming vibes.

How to plan your visit: Use the Osaka Amazing Pass for free subway/bus rides and entry to 40+ spots, including Kaiyukan, Osaka Castle, Osaka Wheel, and cruises like the scenic Santa Maria around the harbor. Book tickets online (¥2,700 adults) to skip lines; allocate 2-3 hours mid-morning, then ride the Ferris wheel or cruise for bay panoramas—ideal for a full harbor day blending aquatic wonders with Osaka’s charm.

For more about how to plan a travel itinerary, especially for cherry blossoms in Osaka. Visit here; for more about the food scene in Kansai, visit here.