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 May 31, 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 Prices and times may be out of date, so please confirm anything important with the property.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 JR Otaru Station, take the Hokkaido Central Bus bound for the aquarium for about 25 minutes and get off at Otaru Aquarium bus stop. By car, it's about 20 minutes from the Otaru IC of the Sapporo–Otaru Expressway. The parking lot accommodates approximately 1,000 vehicles.
Opening hours (1)
What are the opening seasons and hours?
Regular season is typically mid-March to mid-October (9:00–17:00, last admission 16:30); winter season is around December to February (10:00–16:00, last admission 15:30). Some summer weekends have extended evening hours until 20:00. Times vary by year; please check the official website.
Traveling with children (1)
Can I enjoy this with children?
Yes. The touch area in the main building allows children to touch fish and animals, and dynamic shows featuring dolphins, penguins, and sea lions are very popular with children. The amusement park 'Iwaiizu Marine Land' (summer only) is also located nearby.
Time needed (1)
How long does it take to see everything?
Plan for 2–3 hours to go through the main building, dolphin stadium, and marine animal park. You'll enjoy it more efficiently if you schedule around show times. Wear comfortable walking shoes as there is a steep slope down to the marine animal park.
Prices (1)
What is the admission fee for Otaru Aquarium?
During regular season: adults (16 and over) ¥1,800, elementary and middle school students ¥700, children (3 and over) ¥350. Winter season rates are discounted to ¥1,300 for adults, ¥500 for students, and ¥300 for children. Group discounts are available.
Highlights (3)
What is special about harbour porpoises?
Harbour porpoises are extremely difficult to keep in captivity and are a rare exhibit worldwide. Otaru Aquarium is one of the few facilities that displays them.
How frequently are dolphin shows held?
Dolphin performances are held multiple times daily. Start times vary by season: typically 10:30, 12:40, 14:30, 16:10 during regular season (March–May, September–October), and 10:00, 11:50, 13:00, 14:30, 16:10 during summer (June–August). Please check the official website for details.
What is the penguin excursion to the sea?
An event where Humboldt penguins walk right past visitors on their way to the sea, play in a natural sea pool, and return. You can see the penguins moving naturally and vibrantly in Hokkaido's wilderness up close. It takes place around 12:00 during the regular season (March–October).
Meals (1)
Can I eat at the facility?
Restaurant 'New Sanko Otaru Aquarium Branch' is located on the second floor of the main building, serving Western dishes such as turtle-themed omelette rice. 'Hama no Ya Shokudō' operates in the marine park area on summer weekends and holidays (weekdays during summer vacation as well), serving jingisukan (grilled mutton) and seafood dishes.
Parking (1)
Is there a parking lot?
We have a large parking lot with capacity for approximately 1,000 vehicles (may be charged). The entrance stairs are steep, so it is recommended to keep large luggage to a minimum.
Other (6)
What are the opening hours?
Regular hours: 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30), winter hours: 10:00–16:00 (last entry 15:30)
What is the address?
Hokkaido, Otaru City, Iwaiizu 3-chome, 303
How do I get there?
From JR Otaru Station, take the Hokkaido Chuo Bus 'Aquarium bound' bus for about 25 minutes and get off at the 'Otaru Aquarium' stop. By car, it is about 20 minutes from Otaru IC on the Sapporo-Otaru Expressway. Parking for approximately 1,000 vehicles available.
Is there parking?
Yes, parking is available. Please check official information for details.
What is the admission price?
Adults (16 and over) ¥1,800, elementary and middle school students ¥700, children (3 and over) ¥350 / Winter season: adults ¥1,300, students ¥500, children ¥300
When is the facility closed?
Closed during winter (late November to around mid-March). Closure dates vary by year; please check the official website.