Sunpiazza Aquarium, Sapporo - a group of people standing in front of a large aquarium
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Sunpiazza Aquarium Sapporo

3.8
·1k reviews·Sapporo, Japan

A unique city aquarium in Sapporo, blending artful aquascaping with interactive exhibits and a tranquil atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Sunpiazza Aquarium, Sapporo - a group of people standing in front of a large aquarium

Sunpiazza Aquarium Sapporo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique city aquarium in Sapporo, blending artful aquascaping with interactive exhibits and a tranquil atmosphere.

3.8
(1k reviews)

"A beautiful blend of art and science, offering a peaceful escape with stunning underwater landscapes."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Feeding Schedules

Plan your visit around animal feeding times for the most engaging seal and penguin viewing.

✨ Top Floor Ambiance

Don't miss the top floor's peaceful jellyfish and penguin zone with relaxing music.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nature Aquarium Section

Nature Aquarium Section

First Floor

Stunning, meticulously crafted aquascapes that feel like living art installations.

Penguin and Jellyfish Zone

Penguin and Jellyfish Zone

Top Floor

A tranquil, dimly lit space with peaceful music, perfect for enjoying jellyfish and penguins.

Seal and Otter Encounters

Seal and Otter Encounters

Watch playful seals and otters in their enclosures; check feeding times for maximum activity.

Interactive Touch Pool

Interactive Touch Pool

A hands-on experience where you can gently interact with small sea creatures.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Best Experience

While AOAO Sapporo is a department store aquarium, it can get busy, especially on weekends. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Check feeding times beforehand for optimal viewing of seals and penguins.

Beyond the Tanks: Interactive Fun

AOAO Sapporo offers more than just observation. Look out for interactive exhibits like the touch pool and special shows. The 'Nature Aquarium' section is a highlight, showcasing beautifully curated tanks.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
During feeding times
Why
See animals at their most active
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

It’s also used for research and conservation. Chura means "beautiful" in the Okinawan language, and umi means "ocean" in Japanese. #okinawa #okinawajapan #traveljapan #aquarium #thingstodoinjapan #japantiktok
@nickellemick
114.9K likes • 836.9K views

🎯 Check Feeding Schedules

Plan your visit around animal feeding times for the most engaging seal and penguin viewing. Reddit

✨ Top Floor Ambiance

Don't miss the top floor's peaceful jellyfish and penguin zone with relaxing music. Reddit

locations of all the places in the video :)) I DID MY HOMEWORK SO YOU DONT HAVE TO. 1. Churaumi Aquarium This is the biggest aquarium in Okinawa; definitely must go to the aquarium cafe to eat with the whale shark swimming behind! Location: Ocean Expo Park, Motobu 2. Magic Ocean We were actually so happy we managed to stumble across this magic show. one of the best especially because you are so cl...
@ianthioo
27.1K likes • 322.6K views
Just a small part of the 7 meter aquarium at AOAO Sapporo 🤯 made by @yusuke_homma_ada and the rest of the ADA team! . . 👉🏻Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to my YouTube channel: YouTube.com/mjaquascaping 👉🏻10%DISCOUNT on CO2Art with code: Amsterdam #Aquascaping #Nanocube #fishtank #plantedtank #shrimptank #co2 #ada #plants #nanoaquarium #moss #natureaquarium #aquascape #betta
mj.aquascaping
12.4K likes • 189.1K views

🎨 Aquascaping Artistry

Appreciate the stunning 'Nature Aquarium' tanks, often compared to living art. Instagram+1

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kids Enjoy the Touch Pool

Little ones love the interactive touch pool for a hands-on marine experience. TikTok

11月11日はヘコアユの日! 〜なぜ11月11日はヘコアユの日かを完結に説明〜 年に一度、11日間開催される「ひらひらヘコアユまつり」は残り6日間! 11個のコンテンツをめぐって、下を向いて泳ぐ謎の魚"ヘコアユ"の魅力に触れてみませんか? <開催中の11のコンテンツ>※写真も追加で ①“ヘコアユ”の食事タイム 見学 ②“ヘコアユ”の食事内容公開 ③【特別体験プログラム】ひらひら“ヘコアユ”トーク ④ 【体験プログラム】“ヘコアユ”BINGO ⑤ 【体験プログラム】誰でも“ヘコアユお面マン”になろう! ⑥ “ヘコアユの日”記念日登録証 ⑦ オリジナル“ヘコアユ”クッキー登場! ⑧ オリジナル“ヘコアユ”グッズが限定価格! ⑨ 札幌市電シリウス“ヘコアユ号”登場! ⑩テレビ父さんと“ヘコアユ”からの挑戦状! ⑪ホテルWBF札幌にて“ヘコアユ”満喫ステイ登場! #aoaosapporo #...
aoao_sapporo
425 likes • 10.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Feeding Schedules

Plan your visit around animal feeding times for the most engaging seal and penguin viewing. Reddit

✨ Top Floor Ambiance

Don't miss the top floor's peaceful jellyfish and penguin zone with relaxing music. Reddit

🎨 Aquascaping Artistry

Appreciate the stunning 'Nature Aquarium' tanks, often compared to living art. Instagram+1

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kids Enjoy the Touch Pool

Little ones love the interactive touch pool for a hands-on marine experience. TikTok

🎟️ Admission for All Ages

Note that children aged 3 and above require a ticket for entry. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find Sunpiazza Aquarium to be a charming and well-maintained attraction, particularly praised for its artistic 'Nature Aquarium' displays and the serene top-floor jellyfish and penguin zone. While some note the enclosures for seals and penguins could be larger, the interactive touch pool and the educational research section are frequently highlighted as enjoyable features for families and those interested in aquascaping.

"Kids from 3 years old and above need to pay ¥ 400

The whole aquarium took our kids at about 2 hours.

We enjoyed observing the big octopus and play with the little fish that wriggle to our fingers."

Khadeejah Hasmad

"Not a big aquarium but have many type of sea animal. Nice place for killing time and can enjoyed with seals swimming all day long. Too bad that I only see the otter "Mimichan" sleeping only. 😭"

Pond Twistzz

"nice to interact with water creatures"

Kyle Granada

What People Like

Artistic Nature Aquariums
Tranquil top floor
Interactive touch pool

What People Dislike

Small seal/penguin enclosures
Limited size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sunpiazza Aquarium is located within the Sunpiazza shopping center in Sapporo. You can reach it via public transport, with the nearest station being Fukuzumi Station on the Toho Subway Line. It's also accessible by bus. TikTok

Yes, it's conveniently located within a major shopping complex, making it easy to spot once you're in the Sunpiazza building. Look for signage directing you to the aquarium. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the Sunpiazza shopping center. However, public transportation is often recommended due to potential traffic and parking availability. TikTok

The aquarium is part of a larger complex with shops and dining, making it a good stop for a few hours. For other major attractions, you might need to use public transport to reach areas like Odori Park or Susukino. Reddit

From Sapporo Station, you can take the Toho Subway Line directly to Fukuzumi Station, which is a short walk from the Sunpiazza complex. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is free for children under 3 years old. For visitors aged 3 and above, there is a fee of ¥400. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for Sunpiazza Aquarium, as it's a smaller attraction within a shopping center. You can usually purchase tickets at the entrance. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open daily. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays. Instagram

While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, children under 3 are free. It's always a good idea to check for any seasonal promotions or group rates if applicable. Reddit

Re-entry policies can vary. It's best to confirm with staff at the entrance if you plan to leave and return later in the day. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Highlights include the 'Nature Aquarium' with stunning aquascapes, a dedicated penguin and jellyfish zone, playful seals and otters, and an interactive touch pool. InstagramReddit+1

Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the aquarium, which is a good amount of time to see all the exhibits and enjoy the shows. Reddit

Yes, the aquarium often has animal feeding times, particularly for seals and penguins. Checking the schedule upon arrival is recommended for the best experience. Reddit

Absolutely! The touch pool and the variety of sea life, including penguins and seals, are very engaging for children. The aquarium is a manageable size for little ones. TikTokReddit

This is a special section featuring beautifully designed, planted aquariums that resemble natural underwater landscapes, often created by renowned aquascapers. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the aquarium itself doesn't have a full restaurant, there's a cafe on the top floor where you can enjoy drinks and snacks while overlooking the exhibits. Reddit

The Sunpiazza shopping center has numerous restaurants and food courts offering a wide variety of cuisines, from casual to more formal dining. Reddit

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the aquarium itself, but you can usually consume them in designated areas within the shopping center. Reddit

The cafe typically offers light refreshments, coffee, tea, and perhaps some simple snacks. It's a convenient spot for a quick break. Reddit

The surrounding Sunpiazza shopping center offers a diverse range of dining options, so you should be able to find vegetarian and vegan choices among the various restaurants. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Sunpiazza Aquarium. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals. Instagram

The 'Nature Aquarium' section offers stunning backdrops. The penguin and jellyfish exhibits also provide unique photo opportunities, especially with the ambient lighting. InstagramReddit

Video recording is usually permitted, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid prolonged filming that might obstruct pathways. Instagram

Try to capture the vibrant colors of the 'Nature Aquarium' and the serene atmosphere of the top floor. Using a phone with good low-light capabilities can be helpful. Instagram

Yes, especially if you time your visit for feeding sessions. The enclosures might have some reflections, so try different angles. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

AOAO Sapporo is a fantastic option for families with young children. The aquarium is a manageable size, preventing little ones from getting overwhelmed. The interactive touch pool is a huge hit, allowing kids to safely get up close with sea creatures. TikTokReddit

Don't miss the penguin and seal exhibits, which are always a crowd-pleaser. While the aquarium is smaller than some, it offers a good variety of marine life and engaging displays. Remember that children aged 3 and above require a ticket, so factor that into your budget. Reddit

🎨 Art and Nature Lovers

For those who appreciate aesthetics, the 'Nature Aquarium' section is a must-see. These are not just tanks but meticulously crafted underwater landscapes that showcase the art of aquascaping. Instagram+1

The top floor's tranquil zone with jellyfish and penguins, accompanied by calming music, offers a serene and visually captivating experience. It's a place to appreciate the beauty and artistry of aquatic environments. Reddit

💡 Educational Explorers

AOAO Sapporo offers more than just viewing; it provides insights into the science behind aquariums. The research and lab section allows visitors to see staff actively involved in fish care, water testing, and food cultivation. Reddit

This behind-the-scenes look at conservation efforts and scientific practices adds an educational layer to the visit, making it valuable for curious minds of all ages. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Aquascaping at AOAO Sapporo

AOAO Sapporo distinguishes itself with its dedicated 'Nature Aquarium' section, a testament to the art of aquascaping. These are not just tanks of fish; they are meticulously designed underwater landscapes, often created by renowned aquascaping artists like those from ADA (Aqua Design Amano). The focus is on replicating natural ecosystems with lush aquatic plants, carefully arranged driftwood, and rocks, creating a serene and visually stunning experience. Instagram+1

Visitors often describe these displays as living art installations, offering a tranquil escape. The attention to detail in each tank, from the plant selection to the water clarity, is remarkable. It's a section that appeals not only to aquarium enthusiasts but to anyone who appreciates natural beauty and meticulous design. The contrast between these vibrant, planted tanks and the more traditional exhibits provides a unique dimension to the aquarium visit. Instagram

This emphasis on aquascaping elevates AOAO Sapporo beyond a typical city aquarium. It showcases a commitment to the aesthetic and scientific aspects of aquatic environments, providing an educational and inspiring experience for all visitors. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the artistry involved in creating and maintaining these miniature underwater worlds. Instagram

Experiencing the Tranquil Top Floor

The top floor of AOAO Sapporo is a unique and often highlighted area, designed to create a peaceful and immersive atmosphere. This zone is characterized by dim lighting, creating a serene environment perfect for observing the jellyfish and penguins. The ambient music further enhances the calming effect, making it a space where visitors can truly relax and disconnect. Reddit

Many visitors find this area to be a highlight, with some expressing a desire to stay for hours due to its tranquil nature. The combination of gentle music and the mesmerizing movements of the jellyfish, along with the playful antics of the penguins, creates a captivating experience. It's a stark contrast to the more active areas of the aquarium and offers a moment of quiet contemplation. Reddit

Adding to the appeal, there's a cafe located on this same floor. This allows visitors to enjoy a drink or a snack while taking in the underwater views, further enhancing the relaxed ambiance. It's an ideal spot to unwind after exploring the rest of the aquarium, making the top floor a memorable and cherished part of the AOAO Sapporo visit. Reddit

Understanding the Research and Conservation Aspect

While AOAO Sapporo is a public aquarium, it also plays a role in research and conservation efforts. This aspect is often highlighted by visitors who appreciate the educational value beyond just viewing marine life. The aquarium may be involved in breeding programs, water quality research, and the cultivation of live foods for its inhabitants. TikTok

One of the unique features mentioned is a lab section on the first floor where visitors can observe staff engaged in activities like quarantining new fish, cultivating live foods such as daphnia, testing water parameters, and mixing fertilizers for planted tanks. This transparency offers a glimpse into the scientific operations that support the health and well-being of the aquarium's residents. Reddit

This commitment to research and conservation adds another layer of appreciation for the aquarium. It demonstrates that AOAO Sapporo is not just a place for entertainment but also a facility dedicated to the study and preservation of aquatic life, contributing to a broader understanding and protection of marine ecosystems. TikTokReddit

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