Park & nature · Pudong

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

4 · 973 reviews
Shanghai Ocean AquariumThis illustration was made by Peter Potrowl. Please credit this with : © Peter Potrowl in the immediate vicinity of the · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 3.0
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Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, located in the heart of Pudong near the Oriental Pearl Tower, is a world-class facility that offers an immersive journey through aquatic ecosystems from around the globe. The aquarium is best known for its 155-meter-long acrylic tunnel, one of the longest in the world, where visitors walk through a transparent corridor surrounded by sharks, rays, and schools of fish. Exhibits are organized by continent, showcasing species from China's Yangtze River, Southeast Asia, Australia, and the cold waters of Antarctica. The highlight is the 'Amazon Flooded Forest' exhibit, which recreates the Amazon basin with piranhas, giant river otters, and freshwater stingrays. Interactive touch pools and daily feeding shows add to the experience, making it a popular destination for families and marine enthusiasts. The facility is modern, clean, and well-maintained, though it can get crowded on weekends and holidays.

Don't miss

  • Walk through the 155-meter-long underwater tunnel for a 360-degree view of sharks and rays.
  • Visit the 'Amazon Flooded Forest' exhibit with piranhas and giant river otters.
  • See rare Chinese sturgeon and other Yangtze River species in the China zone.
  • Catch a penguin feeding session in the cold-water exhibit.
  • Touch marine creatures like starfish and sea cucumbers at the interactive pool.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

You can visit on your own (paid entry, check official site for current pricing. book online to skip lines, especially on weekends). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.

Good for

BusinessCouplesSolo travelFamilyFriends getaway

How travelers rate it

5 star
329
4 star
382
3 star
173
2 star
50
1 star
39

Know before you go

  • Allow at least 2 hours to see everything without rushing.
  • Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited in the tunnel area.
  • Weekends and holidays are very busy; arrive early or visit on a weekday.
  • There is a small café inside, but nearby Lujiazui has many dining options.

A bit of history

Opened in 2002, Shanghai Ocean Aquarium was designed to be one of the most advanced aquariums in Asia. It was built as part of the development of the Lujiazui financial district and has since become a major tourist attraction in Shanghai.

Common questions

Is the aquarium suitable for young children?

Yes, it's very family-friendly with interactive touch pools and colorful exhibits that fascinate kids.

How long is the underwater tunnel?

The tunnel is 155 meters (509 feet) long, one of the longest in the world.

Are there English signs and audio guides?

Yes, all exhibits have English translations, and audio guides are available for rent.

Can I buy tickets at the door?

Yes, but booking online in advance is recommended to avoid long queues.

Is there parking available?

Limited parking is available nearby, but public transport is strongly advised.

What are the opening hours?

Typically 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but check the official website for seasonal changes.

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