Biggest Aquarium In The World Osaka
Introduction
Located in the bay area of Osaka, Japan, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is the largest aquarium in the world. It is home to over 30,000 creatures from 620 different species, including whale sharks, dolphins, and rays. The aquarium is a popular tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors every year.
History
The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan first opened its doors in 1990, as part of the development of the bay area for the 1990 World Exposition. It was designed by Peter Chermayeff, an American architect who also designed the New England Aquarium in Boston. The aquarium's theme is "Ring of Fire", reflecting the Pacific Rim's volcanic activity that created Japan's islands.
Exhibits
The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan has 15 exhibits, each representing a different region of the Pacific Rim. The exhibits are organized around a central tank, which holds 5,400 cubic meters of water and is home to several whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. Visitors can walk through a tunnel that runs through the tank, giving them a 360-degree view of the creatures swimming around them.
Highlights
One of the highlights of the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is the "Pacific Ocean" exhibit, which contains a large school of sardines that swim in a coordinated pattern. The exhibit is designed to mimic the natural phenomenon known as "bait ball", where fish form a tight ball to protect themselves from predators. Another popular exhibit is the "Antarctica" exhibit, which is home to penguins and other cold-water creatures.
Conservation
The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is committed to conservation and education. The aquarium participates in breeding and research programs for several endangered species, including the whale shark and the Japanese giant spider crab. The aquarium also hosts educational programs for school groups and the general public, teaching visitors about the importance of preserving marine life.
Visiting
The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is open daily from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm. Admission is 2,300 yen for adults and 1,200 yen for children. The aquarium is easily accessible by public transportation, with a subway station located nearby. Visitors should plan to spend at least two hours at the aquarium to see all of the exhibits.
Conclusion
The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Japan. With its impressive exhibits, commitment to conservation, and stunning architecture, it is no wonder that the aquarium is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
