Location
The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is located at 1388 Lujiazui Ring Road, Pudong New Area, Shanghai. It’s right in the heart of Lujiazui, which is Shanghai’s financial hub, and it’s surrounded by some of the city’s most iconic skyscrapers, like the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai Tower. This makes it super convenient to visit, especially if you’re already exploring the city’s modern skyline. The aquarium is also just a short walk from the Lujiazui subway station, making it easy to reach by public transport.
How to Get There
Getting to the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is a breeze. If you’re taking the subway, just hop on Line 2 and get off at Lujiazui Station. From there, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the aquarium. If you’re coming by taxi or ride-hailing service, simply tell the driver to take you to 1388 Lujiazui Ring Road. For those who prefer driving, there’s plenty of parking available nearby. And if you’re staying in the Bund area, you can even take a ferry across the Huangpu River to get to Lujiazui, which is a scenic and fun way to travel!
Natural Attractions
The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is a three-story wonderland of marine life. When you first arrive, you’ll take an elevator to the third floor and then work your way down. The aquarium is divided into different zones, each showcasing a unique part of the ocean. For example, there’s a China Zone that highlights the marine life found in Chinese waters, and an Americas Zone that features creatures from the other side of the world. The variety of sea creatures here is mind-blowing—think colorful fish, graceful jellyfish, and even some pretty intimidating sharks.
One of the coolest features of the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is the Amazon Rainforest Tunnel. It’s the only one of its kind in the world, and it gives you a 360-degree view of the Amazon’s underwater world. Walking through it feels like you’re actually in the jungle, with fish swimming all around you. It’s a must-see!
Cultural Highlights
The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium isn’t just about the animals—it’s also a place to learn about different cultures. The China Zone, for instance, not only showcases marine life but also gives you a glimpse into the country’s long history with the sea. You’ll see how traditional Chinese fishing methods have evolved and learn about the importance of marine conservation in Chinese culture.
The Americas Zone, on the other hand, offers a look at the diverse ecosystems of the Western Hemisphere. From the coral reefs of the Caribbean to the kelp forests of the Pacific coast, this section highlights the incredible biodiversity of the Americas. It’s a great way to appreciate the interconnectedness of our world’s oceans.
Facilities
The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is designed with visitors in mind. On the first floor, there’s a fast-food restaurant where you can grab a quick bite if you get hungry during your visit. The food options are pretty standard—think burgers, fries, and sandwiches—but they’re convenient if you don’t want to leave the aquarium to eat.
There are also plenty of rest areas throughout the aquarium, so you can take a break whenever you need to. The entire place is wheelchair accessible, and there are strollers available for families with young children. Plus, the staff is super friendly and always ready to help if you have any questions.
Visitor Experience
Visiting the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is an unforgettable experience. As soon as you step inside, you’re transported to a world beneath the waves. The exhibits are designed to be both educational and entertaining, so you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of marine life.
One of the best things about the aquarium is the layout. Starting on the third floor and working your way down allows you to see the different zones in a logical order, and it’s easy to navigate. The Amazon Rainforest Tunnel is definitely a highlight, but there are plenty of other exhibits that will catch your eye, too.
If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll love the interactive exhibits where they can touch starfish or learn about the different types of fish. And for the adults, there’s plenty of information about marine conservation, so you can learn how to protect the oceans while enjoying the beauty of the underwater world.
Overall, the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is a must-visit for anyone in Shanghai. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or just looking for a fun and educational way to spend the day, this aquarium has something for everyone. So, next time you’re in the city, make sure to add it to your itinerary—you won’t regret it!
