Frequently Asked Questions
English answers are machine-translated from the property's Japanese information. Please confirm important details with the property directly.
Or browse the answers we’ve already prepared below.
These answers were written by AI from the property's official website. The property has not checked them. Collected on September 28, 2026. Prices and times may be out of date, so please confirm anything important with the property.
Access (1)
How do I get there from Kagoshima-Chuo Station?
About 15 minutes by city bus from Kagoshima-Chuo Station; get off at the Suizokukan-mae stop and walk about 3 minutes. From Kagoshima Station it is about 15 minutes' walk. The Sakurajima ferry terminal is also within walking distance.
Events (2)
When is the Night Aquarium held?
The Night Aquarium, with opening extended to 21:00, is held during certain periods such as Golden Week, weekends and public holidays in the summer holidays, and Obon. The tanks switch to night mode, letting you see the creatures differently from the daytime. Please check the official website for dates.
Is there a dolphin show?
An event called Dolphin Time is held daily, with audience participation. In the outdoor channel connected to the sea (a free area), dolphins also appear every day and you can watch them perform.
Opening hours (1)
What are the opening hours and closed days?
Normal opening hours are 9:30-18:00 (admission until 17:00). During certain periods such as the summer holidays, Golden Week and Obon, a Night Aquarium extends opening to 21:00. It closes for four days from the first Monday of December.
Traveling with children (1)
Is it enjoyable for small children?
Yes. There is plenty for children, including the hands-on Wakuwaku Hakken Hiroba where you look for creatures, and the outdoor dolphin channel. Admission for pre-school children aged 4 and over is 350 yen (free for those aged 3 and under).
Prices (2)
Is there a combined ticket with the Chiran Peace Museum?
Yes, a combined ticket for the Chiran Peace Museum and Io World Kagoshima Aquarium is sold. There is also a combined ticket with Hirakawa Zoological Park. Please see the official website for details.
How much is admission, and are there discounts?
Adults (high school age and above) 2,000 yen, elementary and junior high school students 1,000 yen, and pre-school children aged 4 and over 350 yen. A discounted Kagoshima resident rate is available. An annual pass costs about the same as two admissions. Holders of a disability certificate are exempt from admission.
Facilities (1)
Can I eat at the aquarium?
There is a restaurant and a museum shop on site, with spaces where you can eat and drink or have a light meal. There are also many restaurants nearby.
Highlights (2)
Are there jellyfish or deep-sea creatures on display?
The Jellyfish Corridor offers a magical jellyfish display. The Deep Sea of Kagoshima corner lets you feel as though you have dived into the deep. There is also a sea slug research laboratory, rare even by world standards.
Can I see a whale shark?
Yes, Io World Kagoshima Aquarium is the only aquarium in Kyushu with a permanent whale shark display. The Kuroshio Grand Tank, where bonito, tuna and large rays swim in shoals, is spectacular. Displays may change depending on the animals' condition, so please check the official website.
Parking (1)
Is there parking?
The aquarium has no dedicated car park, but the nearby prefectural car parks (1, 2 and 3) can be used. There is no parking discount for aquarium visitors. We recommend public transport during busy periods such as the summer holidays.
Other (6)
How do I get there?
About 15 minutes by bus from Kagoshima-Chuo Station; get off at Suizokukan-mae and walk 3 minutes. About 15 minutes' walk from Kagoshima Station. About 5 minutes' walk from the Sakurajima ferry terminal.
Is there parking?
Parking is available. Please check the official information for details.
What is the address?
3-1 Honko-shinmachi, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture
How much is admission?
Adults (high school age and above) 2,000 yen, elementary and junior high school students 1,000 yen, pre-school children aged 4 and over 350 yen (a Kagoshima resident rate is available).
When is it closed?
For four days from the first Monday of December (it opens as usual over the New Year period).
What are the opening hours?
9:30-18:00 (admission until 17:00). Opening is extended to 21:00 during certain periods such as the summer holidays and Golden Week.