Shanghai Ocean Aquarium - fish in water
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Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

4.2
·451 reviews·, China

Immerse yourself in aquatic wonders at Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, featuring Asia's longest underwater tunnel and diverse global marine life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Shanghai Ocean Aquarium - fish in water

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Immerse yourself in aquatic wonders at Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, featuring Asia's longest underwater tunnel and diverse global marine life.

4.2
(451 reviews)

"Walk through the longest underwater tunnel in Asia and be mesmerized by sharks, rays, and vibrant fish."

Vertical photo
TIP

Allocate 2 Hours

Plan for about 1-2 hours to fully explore the exhibits without rushing. :stopwatch:

Weekday Visits Recommended

Weekends and holidays get busy. Weekdays offer a more peaceful experience. :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Underwater Tunnel

The Grand Underwater Tunnel

Pudong

Walk through Asia's longest underwater tunnel for a 180-degree view of sharks, rays, and vibrant fish.

China Zone

China Zone

Pudong

Discover rare Yangtze River species like the Chinese sturgeon and giant salamander.

Polar Region Exhibit

Polar Region Exhibit

Pudong

Marvel at playful penguins in their icy habitat, a hit with families.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

To avoid the busiest times, aim for weekdays, especially during school terms. Weekends and public holidays can get very crowded, making the underwater tunnel a bit of a shuffle. Consider visiting right when they open or a couple of hours before closing for a more relaxed experience.

Ticket Tips

While tickets can be purchased on-site, booking online in advance might save time, especially during peak seasons. Some reviews suggest no queues on-site, but it's always good to check for potential online discounts or package deals.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐛𝐥𝐮𝐞 🫧🐋 #fyp #foryou #shanghai #ocean #oceanaquarium #aquarium #shanghai #douyin #fish #aquarium #xyzabc
@hikari7770
304K likes • 1.9M views

Allocate 2 Hours

Plan for about 1-2 hours to fully explore the exhibits without rushing. :stopwatch:

Weekday Visits Recommended

Weekends and holidays get busy. Weekdays offer a more peaceful experience. :calendar:

Shanghai ocean aquarium 🌊🪼#shanghai #aquarium #shanghaioceanaquarium #fyp #fypage #viral
@user928219657
81K likes • 2.9M views
Dive into a world of wonder! 🐠🌊 Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, one of the world's largest artificial seawater havens, is your passport to global marine life. With 9 incredible zones spanning from polar ice to tropical reefs, it's a journey across 5 continents and 4 oceans – all under one roof! Opened in 2002, this aquatic marvel hosts millions annually. Ready to explore 450+ species? Your underwater adv...
sinotravel2024
1 likes • 217 views

Kid-Friendly Fun

A great day out for children, with engaging exhibits and a chance to see diverse marine life. :child:

Check Information Language

Some supporting reading material might be in Chinese only. :speech_balloon:

The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium features an impressive underwater elevator that takes visitors on a unique journey through the depths of the ocean. This underwater elevator is part of the aquarium’s extensive underwater viewing tunnels, which are among the longest in the world, measuring 155 meters in total length.
mei_mei_0946
2.3K likes • 63.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Allocate 2 Hours

Plan for about 1-2 hours to fully explore the exhibits without rushing. :stopwatch:

Weekday Visits Recommended

Weekends and holidays get busy. Weekdays offer a more peaceful experience. :calendar:

Kid-Friendly Fun

A great day out for children, with engaging exhibits and a chance to see diverse marine life. :child:

Check Information Language

Some supporting reading material might be in Chinese only. :speech_balloon:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(451 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is widely praised for its impressive collection of marine life and the spectacular, longest-in-Asia underwater tunnel. Visitors highlight the educational value and the well-maintained, clean facilities, making it a must-visit for families and marine enthusiasts. Some find the ticket prices a bit high, and information panels can sometimes be limited to Chinese.

"Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is an amazing place to visit, offering one of the most impressive collections of marine life in Asia. The highlight is the long underwater tunnel where you can walk through and admire sharks, rays, and colorful fish swimming above and around you. The exhibits are well-organized, educational, and suitable for both kids and adults. The staff is friendly, and the atmosphere is both relaxing and exciting. A must-see attraction in Shanghai for anyone who loves the ocean and its wonders."

Aleksandar Ilic

"Shanghai Ocean Aquarium Review

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is one of the most impressive aquariums in Asia, offering a fascinating journey through diverse marine ecosystems. Located near the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower in Pudong, the aquarium is well-organized, featuring themed zones that replicate aquatic habitats from different parts of the world.

Highlights:

Themed Exhibits: The aquarium has nine distinct zones, including China, South America, Africa, and Polar regions, each showcasing unique marine life. The China Zone is particularly special as it houses rare Yangtze River species like the Chinese sturgeon.

Massive Underwater Tunnel: The 155-meter-long underwater tunnel is the longest of its kind, offering a breathtaking view of sharks, rays, and other marine creatures swimming overhead.

Diverse Marine Life: The aquarium hosts over 450 species from around the world, including jellyfish, seahorses, penguins, and giant crabs.

Educational Experience: The information provided throughout the exhibits is detailed and engaging, making it an excellent learning experience for both children and adults.

Well-Maintained Facilities: The aquarium is clean, well-lit, and designed for easy navigation.

Considerations:

Crowds: It can get quite busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so visiting on a weekday is recommended.

Ticket Prices: Some may find the entrance fee slightly expensive, but the experience is worth the cost.

Final Verdict:

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is a must-visit for marine life enthusiasts and families. It offers an immersive and educational experience with its impressive exhibits and world-class facilities. Whether you're admiring rare fish, walking through the tunnel, or learning about conservation efforts, this aquarium leaves a lasting impression.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)"

S.M.A. Shafiullah

"⸻

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium – A Must-Visit for All Ages

Located in the heart of Lujiazui, Pudong, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium offers an immersive journey through diverse aquatic habitats from around the globe. Spanning over 20,000 square meters, it houses more than 15,000 marine creatures representing over 450 species .  

One of the aquarium’s standout features is its impressive 155-meter-long underwater tunnel—the longest of its kind in the world . This tunnel provides visitors with a 180-degree panoramic view of marine life, simulating a walk along the ocean floor. 

The aquarium is divided into several themed zones, including the China Zone, which showcases endangered species native to the Yangtze River, as well as zones representing South America, Africa, Australia, and the Polar regions . Highlights include the Chinese sturgeon, giant salamander, electric eel, and emperor penguins. 

Visitors typically spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits, making it a perfect destination for families and marine enthusiasts alike. The aquarium also emphasizes conservation and education, offering programs aimed at raising awareness about marine life and environmental protection . "

Yasmin Grassinger

What People Like

Spectacular underwater tunnel
Diverse marine life
Educational exhibits

What People Dislike

Ticket prices
Limited info in English

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is conveniently located in Pudong, near the Oriental Pearl Tower. You can easily reach it via the Shanghai Metro, with Line 2 stopping at Lujiazui Station, which is a short walk away. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available throughout the city.

Yes, there are parking facilities available near the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, particularly in the Lujiazui area. However, given Shanghai's traffic, public transport is often a more efficient way to get there.

Absolutely! The most convenient way is to take Metro Line 2 to Lujiazui Station. From there, it's a short and pleasant walk to the aquarium entrance. This is a popular method for both locals and tourists.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but reviews suggest it might be considered slightly expensive by some. However, most visitors find the experience well worth the cost. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and potential discounts.

Yes, you can purchase tickets on-site at the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium. Some visitors have reported no queues when buying tickets at the counter, but for peace of mind, especially during peak times, booking online in advance is a good strategy.

Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is best confirmed directly with the aquarium's official channels. However, it's a popular family destination, so family packages or child rates are often available.

The aquarium typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's recommended to check the official website for the exact daily operating hours, as these can sometimes change.

🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience

The absolute highlight is the 155-meter-long underwater tunnel, offering an immersive view of sharks and rays. Don't miss the China Zone for unique Yangtze River species and the Polar Region exhibit for penguins. The diverse themed zones from around the world are also captivating.

Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours exploring the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium. This allows ample time to enjoy the main exhibits, read the information panels, and take photos without feeling rushed.

Yes, it's an excellent destination for children! The colorful displays, diverse marine life, and the exciting underwater tunnel make it a highly engaging and educational experience for younger visitors. It's frequently mentioned as a great family activity. Reddit

You'll encounter a vast array of marine life, including sharks, rays, jellyfish, seahorses, penguins, giant crabs, Chinese sturgeon, and giant salamanders. The aquarium boasts over 450 species from various global aquatic habitats.

Reviews consistently praise the aquarium for being clean, well-lit, and well-organized. The facilities are generally in good condition, contributing to a pleasant visitor experience.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are typically food and beverage options available within the aquarium, such as cafes or snack bars. These are convenient for a quick bite or refreshment during your visit.

While specific policies can vary, it's generally recommended to check the aquarium's official guidelines regarding outside food and beverages. Often, small snacks are permissible, but full meals might be restricted.

Expect typical aquarium fare like snacks, light meals, and beverages. For a more extensive dining experience, you'll find numerous restaurants in the surrounding Lujiazui area, offering a wide range of cuisines.

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the marine life. Always be mindful of signage.

The underwater tunnel offers incredible photo opportunities with marine life swimming all around you. The vibrant colors of the fish in various exhibits and the penguins are also great subjects. Capture the scale of the tanks for dramatic shots.

The main restriction is usually on using flash photography, especially in darker exhibits or near sensitive species. Tripods might also be restricted during peak hours to ensure smooth visitor flow.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is a fantastic destination for families. The underwater tunnel is a guaranteed hit, offering a magical experience for children as sharks and fish swim overhead. The Polar Region exhibit with its penguins is also a major draw. Reddit

Plan for about 1-2 hours, and consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds. The educational aspects, like the China Zone showcasing unique local species, can also be engaging for curious young minds. Remember to check for any child-specific ticket rates.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium offers unique opportunities. The underwater tunnel provides dramatic shots with marine life as your subject, creating a sense of depth and immersion. Experiment with capturing the vibrant colors of tropical fish and the sleek forms of sharks and rays. Instagram

Be mindful of lighting conditions; while the exhibits are well-lit, flash photography is often discouraged to protect the animals. Consider bringing a camera with good low-light performance or a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views within the tanks and the tunnel. The penguin exhibit also offers dynamic shots of active animals.

📚 Educational Visitors

If you're interested in learning about marine biology and conservation, the aquarium is an excellent resource. The themed zones are designed to educate visitors about different aquatic ecosystems, from the Yangtze River to polar regions. Reddit

Pay attention to the information panels, which provide details on species, habitats, and conservation efforts. The China Zone, in particular, offers a unique insight into local biodiversity and the importance of protecting endangered species like the Chinese sturgeon.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Underwater Tunnel

The 155-meter-long underwater tunnel is the undisputed star of the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium. Described as the longest of its kind in the world, it offers an unparalleled 180-degree panoramic view of the aquatic world. As you walk through, you'll be surrounded by sharks, graceful rays, and schools of colorful fish swimming overhead and beside you. It truly simulates the feeling of walking along the ocean floor, providing a breathtaking and immersive experience that visitors consistently rave about. Reddit

This tunnel is not just a visual spectacle; it's a carefully designed environment that allows visitors to appreciate the majesty of marine life up close. The lighting is optimized to showcase the creatures without causing them distress, and the sheer scale of the tunnel contributes to the awe-inspiring atmosphere. It's a prime spot for photography, though be mindful of flash usage. Instagram

Exploring Diverse Aquatic Zones

Beyond the famous tunnel, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is meticulously divided into nine distinct themed zones, each representing a different aquatic habitat from around the globe. This thoughtful organization allows for an educational journey through various ecosystems. You can explore the unique marine life of South America, the diverse species of Africa, and the distinct creatures found in Australia. Reddit

A particularly noteworthy zone is the China Zone, which focuses on endemic species from the Yangtze River. Here, you can encounter rare and endangered creatures like the Chinese sturgeon and the giant salamander, highlighting the aquarium's commitment to conservation and showcasing local biodiversity. The Polar Region exhibit, featuring playful penguins, is another crowd-pleaser, especially for families. Reddit

Conservation and Education Focus

The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium places a significant emphasis on conservation and education. Throughout the exhibits, detailed information panels provide insights into the marine species, their habitats, and the challenges they face in the wild. This educational component aims to raise awareness among visitors about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. Reddit

Programs are often designed to engage visitors, particularly younger ones, in learning about marine life and environmental stewardship. By showcasing both the beauty and the fragility of aquatic environments, the aquarium encourages a sense of responsibility towards ocean conservation. This commitment to education adds a deeper layer to the visitor experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

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