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Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is an aquarium located in the ward of Minato in Osaka, Japan, near Osaka Bay. It is one of the largest public aquariums in the world, and is a member of the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums (source).

We figured having a nice relaxing day at the aquarium for our 6th anniversary would be fun. It was plenty enjoyable, however, there was a couple school trips going on so it was quite loud and not very peaceful. The main attraction here is the whale shark which was super cool to see up close, but at the same time gave me conflicting feelings; I’m honestly not sure how I feel about zoos and aquariums as I do like the educational aspects and the ability to experience the animal up close, but at the same time, no tank can compare to the ocean. There is also the opportunity to pet some stingrays and nurse sharks, which is cool but based on the children’s behaviour is likely stressful for the animals.