Longmen Aquarium

Historical Overview
Opened in October 2005, Luoyang Longmen Ocean Park was developed by Beijing Yihua Seascape Technology as a regional hub for marine education and tourism. In 2022, it earned recognition as a national-level science popularization base, expanding its role in public education. Key milestones include the 2018 addition of a transgenic zebrafish exhibit—the first of its kind in China—and the 2020 debut of a “Spider-Man” underwater treasure-hunt show. The park continuously updates its offerings, blending technology with ecology to promote ocean conservation.

Structural Layout
The park is divided into nine thematic zones:

1. Two-Reptile Zone: Showcases snakes, turtles, and rare amphibians.
2. Rainforest Area: Simulates a tropical ecosystem with waterfalls, exotic birds, and free-roaming fish.
3. Wetland Ecology: Features freshwater habitats for sturgeon, paddlefish, and migratory birds.
4. Interactive Touch Pool: Allows close contact with starfish, sea cucumbers, and small sharks.
5. Coral Reef Zone: Displays vibrant coral species and reef-dwelling fish.
6. Deep-Sea Tunnel: A 50-meter acrylic walkway surrounded by sharks, rays, and giant groupers.
7. Sea Lion Arena: Hosts daily performances and training sessions.
8. Ocean Theater: Stages “Mermaid” shows and underwater magic acts.
9. 360° Sky Aquarium: A 12-meter-diameter cylindrical tank offering aerial views of swimming schools.

Major Attractions

1. Sea Lion Spectacular: Trainers guide sea lions through jumps, ball games, and audience interactions (4 daily shows).
2. Mermaid Fantasy: Divers in shimmering tails perform synchronized dances with tropical fish (3 daily shows).
3. Spider-Man Dive: A diver in a Spider-Man costume searches for “treasure” in the deep-sea tank (weekends only).
4. Transgenic Zebrafish: Fluorescent genetically modified fish, illuminated under UV light.
5. Jellyfish Gallery: A mesmerizing display of moon jellies and sea nettles in pulsating tanks.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Family Half-Day (3–4 hours):
   Entrance → Rainforest Zone → Interactive Touch Pool → Deep-Sea Tunnel → Sea Lion Arena → Ocean Theater → Exit
   Highlights: Kid-friendly zones and core performances.

2. Full-Day Explorer (6–7 hours):
   Morning: Rainforest Zone → Wetland Ecology → Coral Reef Zone → Lunch at Sea View Café
   Afternoon: Deep-Sea Tunnel → Sea Lion Arena → Spider-Man Dive → Transgenic Zebrafish Exhibit → Exit

3. Educational Focus (4–5 hours):
   Guided tour of Two-Reptile Zone → Wetland Ecology → Coral Reef Zone → Ocean Theater (science demo) → Workshop on marine conservation.

Ticket Purchase

• Admission: ¥70 (adults), ¥40 (students/seniors), ¥110 (1 adult + 1 child). Free for children under 1.1m.
• Online Booking: Available via Ctrip, Mafengwo, and the park’s WeChat mini-program (up to 7 days in advance).
• On-Site: Tickets sold at the entrance, but peak-season queues are common.

Transportation

• By Bus: Routes 53, 60, 81, 99, or 67 to “Longmen Haiyangguan” Station.
• By Subway: Line 2 to “Longmen Avenue” Station, then a 10-minute taxi ride.
• By Car: From downtown Luoyang, drive 15 minutes south on Longmen Avenue. Parking: ¥10/day.

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Season: Year-round (indoor attractions dominate; summer offers outdoor water play zones).
• Peak Hours: Avoid 10:30 AM–1 PM (show crowds). Visit early for sea lion interactions.
• Essentials:
  • Bring socks for interactive zones (shoes removed).
  • Camera with polarizing filter for underwater shots.
  • Cash for gift shops (limited card readers).
• Prohibited Items: Outside food, selfie sticks, and large bags.
• Accessibility: Wheelchairs and strollers available for rent (¥20/hour).