Shanghai Ocean Aquarium: A Panoramic Ocean Journey from the Yangtze River to the Deep Sea

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium: A Panoramic Ocean Journey from the Yangtze River to the Deep Sea

Overview: A blue planet suspended in the heart of a city.
The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium, adjacent to the Oriental Pearl Tower, is a pyramid-shaped azure castle with a total construction area of ​​20,500 square meters. It houses more than 12,000 rare and exotic creatures of over 450 species from around the world, and with its 155-meter-long world-class underwater viewing tunnel, it creates an immersive and fantastical dreamlike journey through the deep sea for every visitor.

Key Highlights at a Glance
Identity Tags: "Underwater Pyramid" in the City Center / Living Archive of Yangtze River Ecology / National Science Popularization Education Base
Core experiences: Undersea tunnel walk, exploration of rare Yangtze River creatures, jellyfish light and shadow show, professional feeding observation.
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Address: No. 1388, Lujiazui Ring Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

  • Shanghai Ocean Aquarium: A Panoramic Ocean Journey from the Yangtze River to the Deep Sea-1
  • Shanghai Ocean Aquarium: A Panoramic Ocean Journey from the Yangtze River to the Deep Sea-2
  • Shanghai Ocean Aquarium: A Panoramic Ocean Journey from the Yangtze River to the Deep Sea-3
  • Shanghai Ocean Aquarium: A Panoramic Ocean Journey from the Yangtze River to the Deep Sea-4

Origin: A Blue Dream by the Pearl of the Orient

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The Choice of the Times – Pudong's Ocean Pearl
The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium's establishment is closely linked to the grand blueprint for the development of Pudong New Area. In February 2002, this modern aquarium, a Sino-foreign joint venture, officially opened to the public, quickly becoming a new landmark in Pudong, facing the Bund across the river. Its construction not only filled the gap in large-scale oceanariums in East China, but also, with its grand theme of "experiencing the five continents through the water world," added a window to the mysterious marine world for the international metropolis of Shanghai.

The Path of Mission: From Exhibition to Conservation and Science Education
From the day it opened, the aquarium has shouldered a deeper mission that goes beyond mere entertainment:
- Pioneering (2007): The aquarium pioneered the "Rare Aquatic Life Exhibition of the Yangtze River Basin", placing ecological protection awareness at the core of the exhibition.
- International Stage (2008): Represented Chinese aquariums in hosting the "International Aquarium Congress" for the first time, establishing its authoritative position in the industry.
- Honors and Awards (2009 to present): It has been rated as a national AAAA-level tourist attraction and a "national science popularization education base", completing the transformation from a tourist attraction to an important science, education and cultural base.
- Life Stories: The life journeys of the creatures in the aquarium also touch visitors. For example, a giant grouper (Giant Grouper) that lived for nearly 30 years passed away naturally in 2025, and its story has become a unique memory of life and time for many visitors.

In-depth understanding: Explore more of China's top aquariums and ocean parks >> [Zhuhai Chimelong Ocean Kingdom] | [Shanghai Haichang Ocean Park]

Must-see wonders: Water brings life to all things and human ingenuity

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Nature's Creation – A Microcosm of the Global Water System
The aquarium condenses the Earth's important water systems into nine exhibition areas, forming a living encyclopedia of aquatic life.

The only one in the world - China region
This is the aquarium's "crown jewel," the only independent exhibition area in the world showcasing China's unique aquatic life and the ecology of the Yangtze River basin. Visitors can witness the majestic presence of the "living fossil" Chinese sturgeon, observe the endangered Yangtze alligator, and the adorable giant salamander. This exhibition area is not only a visual feast but also a vivid lesson in China's ecological conservation.

Around the World - Featured Exhibition Area
- South America (Amazon): Explore the ecosystem of the world's largest river basin. The mysterious arapaima, one of the largest freshwater bony fish, swims slowly here, showcasing the vitality of ancient fish.
- Australia: Due to the isolation caused by continental plates, the fish here have evolved unique and distinctive forms. Amazing creatures such as sawfish and archerfish showcase the remarkable achievements of evolution on this isolated island.
- Cold Water Zone and Polar Zone: Get up close and personal with the agile spotted seals in front of the semi-circular display tank, watch the adorable penguins waddle forward in a simulated icy landscape, and experience the charm of completely different waters.
- Coastal and Deep-Sea Zones: Search for the "living fossil" horseshoe crab, the elegant seaweed-like sea dragon, and finally reach the climax—the 155-meter underwater tunnel. As one of the world's longest aquarium tunnels, visitors will walk along an automated walkway, surrounded by large marine life such as sharks, turtles, and rays, experiencing a true deep-sea stroll.

Humanistic craftsmanship: architecture, science and education, and emotional connection
The charm of aquariums lies not only in the creatures they house, but also in the ingenuity they demonstrate in connecting people with the ocean.

- Pyramid-shaped architecture: The main and auxiliary buildings have a unique pyramid-shaped appearance, making them distinctive architectural landmarks in the Lujiazui skyline, symbolizing mankind's eternal exploration of the mysteries of the ocean.
- Marine Classroom and Touch Pool: Located on the third floor, the marine classroom features a touch pool where visitors can touch gentle creatures such as starfish. Through immersive learning and interaction, visitors can develop a curiosity and love for the ocean. The museum also features permanent science exhibits such as "SOS Saves Sharks," combining education with entertainment.
- Mascot "Seahorse Didi": Based on the male seahorse calves bred on-site, it symbolizes life, enlightenment and blue dreams, adding a warm emotional bond to the entire venue.
- Themed events and special exhibitions: The aquarium hosts various themed special exhibitions throughout the year, such as the "Seahorse and Sea Dragon Special Exhibition" and the "Underwater Garden," which are always fresh and attract visitors to visit repeatedly.

Photography Tips:
- Underwater tunnel: When photographing schools of fish swimming by, it is recommended to turn off the flash and hold the camera or phone close to the glass to effectively reduce reflections and take clear, high-quality photos.
- Jellyfish exhibit: Use the changing lights in the exhibit to capture silhouettes of jellyfish expanding and contracting, creating a dreamlike effect.
- China Region: Capturing the moment when large fish such as the Chinese sturgeon turn around showcases their smooth and powerful lines.

Core Experience: An Immersive Ocean Exploration Guide

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Five things you must do to unlock the complete ocean journey
1. Walk through the world's longest underwater tunnel.
- Experience: Step onto the moving walkway, hold your breath and watch as giants such as sand tiger sharks and green sea turtles gracefully glide overhead, feeling the awe-inspiring power of the deep sea.
- Tip: Go during the afternoon feeding time (around 15:20-15:40) for a chance to see sharks feeding.
2. Explore a lesson on Yangtze River ecological conservation
- Key point: Stopping in the only Chinese exhibition area in the world to learn about the current living conditions of "national treasures" such as the Chinese sturgeon is an irreplaceable scientific and educational value of this trip.
3. See a dreamy jellyfish ballet.
- Location: Jellyfish exhibit area. Under specially dimmed lights, watching the jellyfish stretch and float in the water like space sprites is one of the most photogenic scenes in the aquarium.
4. Be present at each animal feeding time.
- Must-see: The feeding and interaction with the spotted seals (9:45/14:15) and penguins (10:00/14:30) is the most engaging. It is recommended to arrive 5-10 minutes early to secure a front-row viewing spot.
5. Experience the real ocean.
- Experience: In the touch pool of the marine classroom, under the guidance of staff, gently touch starfish and other creatures, completing the leap from "watching" to "perceiving".

Suggested tour routes
The aquarium is designed with a single-line tour (3F → 2F → B2), a scientifically planned route that minimizes backtracking. A typical visit takes about 3-4 hours.

Half-day "Highlights Tour" Itinerary (Suitable for most tourists):
- Morning Session (avoiding peak hours): Enter the venue at 9:00 AM → Go directly to the 3rd floor and visit the China, South America, and Australia zones in sequence → At 10:00 AM, head to the polar region on the 2nd floor to watch the penguin feeding → Continue visiting the Africa and Southeast Asia zones on the 2nd floor → Go down to the B2 level to experience the underwater tunnel → The tour ends around 12:30 PM, and you can have lunch at the on-site restaurant or in the Lujiazui business district.
- Afternoon Session (connecting to Night View): 14:00 entry → Visit the exhibition areas on the 3rd and 2nd floors first → Arrive at B2 floor before 15:00 to watch the open ocean and shark feeding in the bay (15:00-15:40) → Then experience the active tunnel landscape after feeding again → End the tour before 17:00 and walk to the riverside or the Bund to enjoy the night view of the Huangpu River.

One-day "Lujiazui In-Depth Tour" Itinerary (Highly Recommended):
- Morning: Visit Shanghai Ocean Aquarium (follow the morning session route).
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Zhengda Plaza in Lujiazui or a nearby commercial complex, with a wide variety of options.
- Afternoon: Choose any of the following combinations:
1. Scenic View Route: Visit the Oriental Pearl Tower (just steps away from the aquarium) or the Shanghai Tower to enjoy panoramic views of both sides of the Huangpu River.
2. Cultural and Leisure Route: Stroll through the central green space of Lujiazui, visit the Pudong Art Museum, and experience the cultural and artistic atmosphere of the financial city.
- Evening: Take a ferry or drive across the river from Lujiazui to enjoy the classic moment when the Bund's collection of international architecture is lit up.

IntoTravelChina's advantages: We can book the most suitable accommodations for you, arrange all the connections between activities, and provide detailed hiking route maps and safety guidelines.
Professional Guide: IntoTravelChina offers personalized itineraries, including a dedicated guide, transportation, and activity arrangements, ensuring a worry-free and in-depth travel experience. >> [Inquire Now for a Customized Itinerary]

Complete Travel Guide: Transportation, Time, and Tips

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How to get there: Convenient access to the city center
The aquarium is located in the heart of Shanghai's tourist area, with an extremely well-developed transportation network.
- Subway (highest recommended): Take Subway Line 2 and get off at "Lujiazui" Station. Exit from Exit 2 and walk about 200-400 meters to reach the destination. It's a seamless connection.
- Public transport: Multiple bus lines (such as 81, 82, 583, 985, etc.) can reach the "Lujiazui Ring Road Fenghe Road" station, and you can get off there.
- By car: Navigate to "Shanghai Ocean Aquarium Parking Lot". Parking fee is approximately 10 yuan per hour. However, the Lujiazui area is congested during peak hours and parking spaces are scarce, so public transportation is recommended.

Best time to visit
Aquariums are suitable for all seasons, but each time has its own unique charm.
- Weekdays (Monday to Friday): This is the best choice, as there are relatively fewer tourists and the exhibition experience is more comfortable. It is especially recommended to enter as soon as the museum opens (9:00 am) or in the afternoon before closing (after 4:00 pm) to effectively avoid crowds.
- Weekends and holidays: High visitor volume, peak from noon to afternoon. If you can only visit during this time, please be patient and purchase tickets online in advance.
- Special periods: During the summer vacation (July 1st - August 31st) and the National Day Golden Week, the aquarium's opening hours will be extended to 21:00, which is suitable for a night visit and has a unique flavor.

Practical information and thoughtful services
- Ticket price:
- Adult ticket: 160 yuan/person
- Child ticket (1.0m-1.4m): 110 yuan/person
- Senior citizen ticket (60 years and older): 90 yuan/person (requires ID)
- Tip: It is strongly recommended to purchase tickets in advance through the aquarium's official online platform or authorized travel websites to save time queuing on-site.
- Opening hours: 9:00-18:00 on weekdays (ticket sales and entry stop at 17:30), and may be extended during summer vacation and National Day holidays.
- Services and facilities:
- Luggage storage: Free luggage storage is available at the visitor center.
- Stroller rental: Strollers are available for free rental at the entrance.
- Mother and baby room: A mother and baby room is available on the second floor of the venue for the convenience of parents with infants.
- Wi-Fi: Free wireless network coverage throughout the venue.

IntoTravelChina's helpful tip:
For families traveling with elderly members or children, we can plan the most efficient itinerary, secure suitable tickets in advance, and recommend nearby restaurants suitable for family meals. Tell us your group composition and any special needs, and we'll make your ocean trip easy and enjoyable. >> [Click to contact an IntoTravelChina travel consultant]

Extend your journey: A spectacular urban loop connecting Greater Shanghai

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The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is the perfect starting point for exploring the "Magic City," easily connecting classic and modern diverse experiences.

Classic Shanghai 3-Day City Tour:
- Day 1 (Pudong Modern Tour): Shanghai Ocean Aquarium → Oriental Pearl Tower/Shanghai Tower → Lujiazui Riverside → Night Cruise on the Huangpu River.
- Day 2 (Puxi Classic Tour): The Bund Historical Buildings → Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street → Yu Garden (snacks and garden tour) → City God Temple.
- Day 3 (Arts & Leisure or Fun Trip): Option A: Shanghai Museum → Xintiandi → Tianzifang; Option B: Full day at Shanghai Disney Resort.
A 5-day highlight tour of the Yangtze River Delta: combining the urban charm of Shanghai with the surrounding water towns, ancient towns, and historical cities.
- Shanghai (2 days): Covers key attractions such as the aquarium, the Bund, and Yu Garden.
- Suzhou (1 day): Visit the Humble Administrator's Garden and Pingjiang Road to experience the exquisite beauty of the "City of Gardens".
- Hangzhou (2 days): Stroll around West Lake, visit Lingyin Temple, and experience the beauty of "paradise on earth". >>Contact us to customize the above related itinerary

Join hands with IntoTravelChina to start your own Azur adventure

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The story of the Shanghai Oceanarium is about the awe of the blue planet, the protection of the diversity of life, and the popularization of scientific knowledge. IntoTravelChina focuses on creating a deep, personal, and hassle-free Chinese travel experience. Our travel experts can help you:
- Tailor-made itinerary: Design the perfect route to include the Shanghai Oceanarium and city attractions based on your interests and time.
- One-stop service: Get tickets, special accommodation, transportation, local guides and event reservations.
- Exclusive Experiences: Arrange tour slots to avoid peak hours, guide to the best camera locations, recommendations for nearby cuisine, etc.

Let your trip to Shanghai be more than just sightseeing, but also a journey of ocean exploration full of surprise and learning.
> Start planning your journey today
> Welcome to contact our professional travel consultants, we will provide you with an exclusive itinerary plan and quotation within 24 hours. >> [Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]

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