Question 1

How do I get there by public transport?

Accepted Answer

The nearest stop is Kaikyokan-mae on the Sanden Kotsu bus, reached by bus from JR Shimonoseki Station or the Karato area. It is also within walking distance of Karato Market.

Question 2

Are there special events in the summer holidays or at New Year?

Accepted Answer

Evening opening events are held during Golden Week and the summer holidays, when you can see the animals at night and watch the dolphin show. Over the New Year period (late December to mid-January) special tanks with creatures linked to the new year are also set up. Please see the official website for details.

Question 3

When is the dolphin show held?

Accepted Answer

A joint dolphin and sea lion presentation is held every day, a combination rarely seen in Japan. Please check the official website for show times.

Question 4

Are there accessible facilities?

Accepted Answer

There is extensive provision: accessible parking, tactile paving, escalators, accessible lifts, ramps, automatic doors, accessible and multi-purpose toilets, and wheelchairs to borrow.

Question 5

Is it enjoyable with children? Are there baby-changing and feeding facilities?

Accepted Answer

There is a baby-feeding room and baby-changing facilities (multi-purpose toilets with infant seats), along with escalators and lifts, so families with young children can visit with confidence.

Question 6

I heard the pufferfish display is distinctive. What is it like?

Accepted Answer

The aquarium has the world's largest number of pufferfish species on display, about 100 kinds, in keeping with Shimonoseki's famous fugu. It is one of Kaikyokan's signature displays.

Question 7

How many penguins are there, and what is the display like?

Accepted Answer

Penguin Village is one of the largest penguin facilities in Japan. An underwater tunnel through a pool up to 6 m deep lets you watch penguins swimming as though flying at close range.

Question 8

Is the blue whale skeleton real?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the complete blue whale skeleton on display is genuine, one of only a handful in the world, and its scale is a highlight not to be missed.

Question 9

How much is admission to Kaikyokan?

Accepted Answer

Adults 2,500 yen, elementary and junior high school students 1,200 yen, young children (age 3 and over) 500 yen. Groups of 20 or more pay 2,200 yen, 900 yen and 400 yen respectively. Shimonoseki residents receive a discount: adults 1,000 yen, elementary and junior high school students 450 yen, young children 200 yen.

Question 10

What changed in the 2025 renovation?

Accepted Answer

The aquarium was renovated in August 2025, opening the sea lion breeding and display facility Hireashi Beach, installing a welcome monument at the main entrance and completely refitting the shop naminowa.

Question 11

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

Kaikyokan has no car park of its own. There are several paid car parks nearby (information on parking in the area is available through the Machinavi section of the aquarium's official website).

Question 12

When is it closed?

Accepted Answer

Closed days vary (please check the official website).

Question 13

How much is admission?

Accepted Answer

Adults 2,500 yen (groups 2,200 yen), elementary and junior high school students 1,200 yen (groups 900 yen), young children (age 3 and over) 500 yen (groups 400 yen). Shimonoseki residents: adults 1,000 yen, elementary and junior high school students 450 yen, young children 200 yen.

Question 14

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

Parking is not available.

Question 15

What are the opening hours?

Accepted Answer

9:30-17:00 (last admission 16:30). Please check the official website for details.

Question 16

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

About 3 minutes' walk from the Karato bus stop (Sanden Kotsu), or about 20 minutes by car from Shimonoseki IC on the Sanyo Expressway.

Question 17

What is the address?

Accepted Answer

6-1 Arukapooto, Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture

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