A Detailed Guide to Aramaru Aquarium in Sacheon, Gyeongnam
Introduction to Aramaru Aquarium
Aramaru Aquarium, located in Sacheon, Gyeongnam, South Korea, is one of the region’s top attractions for marine life enthusiasts and families. This unique aquarium is situated on Choyangdo Island, accessible via the Sacheon Marine Cable Car, making the journey to the aquarium as exciting as the visit itself.
With a diverse collection of marine creatures, exotic birds, reptiles, and even mammals, Aramaru Aquarium offers an immersive experience where visitors can learn about aquatic ecosystems, observe rare species up close, and enjoy entertaining animal shows.
How to Get There
There are two ways to reach Aramaru Aquarium:
- Sacheon Marine Cable Car – The most scenic option, allowing visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and islands before arriving at Choyangdo.
- By Car – Visitors can also drive directly to the aquarium without taking the cable car.
For those without a personal vehicle, a shuttle bus operates between the mainland and Choyangdo, making access convenient.
Main Attractions at Aramaru Aquarium
1. Diverse Marine Life Exhibits
The aquarium houses a wide variety of marine animals, from common fish species to rare and exotic creatures. Some of the highlight species include:
- Sand tiger sharks – Majestic predators that glide through the massive shark tank.
- Spotted seals – Playful and curious animals that often interact with visitors through the glass.
- Sea lions – Known for their intelligence, they are a main attraction in the aquarium’s live shows.
- Sturgeons – Ancient-looking fish with armored bodies.
- Butterfly koi – Beautiful fish that resemble floating butterflies in the water.
2. Interactive Animal Experiences
One of the most exciting parts of Aramaru Aquarium is the interactive experiences where visitors can engage with animals in unique ways:
- Seal & sea lion feeding shows – Visitors can watch these fascinating marine mammals perform tricks and learn about their behaviors.
- Wave at a seal! – Many visitors have fun waving at the spotted seals, who often swim up to interact with people.
- Penguin feeding (Seasonal event) – Though not always available, some lucky visitors get to feed adorable penguins.
3. Land Animal Exhibits
While primarily an aquarium, Aramaru also features a variety of land animals, making the visit even more diverse. Some of the notable land animals include:
- Shoebill stork – A prehistoric-looking bird, famous for its resemblance to dinosaurs. Aramaru is the only place in Korea where you can see one.
- Fiji iguana – A rare and vibrant green reptile that is not commonly found in other zoos or aquariums.
- Galápagos iguana – A fascinating lizard species that adds to the tropical feel of the exhibits.
- Beaver – Known as the “engineers of the wild,” these animals build dams and create habitats.
- Korean otter – A rare sight in aquariums, this playful animal is native to South Korea.
4. Special Shows & Themed Programs
Aramaru Aquarium hosts scheduled events and themed programs throughout the day, making each visit unique. These include:
- Sea lion & seal performances – Fun and educational shows where trainers demonstrate the animals’ intelligence and agility.
- Marine life feeding sessions – Watch divers feed sharks, rays, and other fish in large tanks.
- Educational talks – Learn about the importance of marine conservation and the behaviors of different species.
Facilities & Visitor Information
📍 Location:
Aramaru Aquarium
18 Sacheon-daero, Sacheon, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea
⏰ Opening Hours:
- Weekdays (Sunday–Thursday): 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Weekends (Friday–Saturday): 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Last admission: One hour before closing time
🎟️ Ticket Prices:
- Adults: ~25,000 KRW
- Children & Seniors: ~20,000 KRW
- Combo Ticket (Aquarium + Cable Car): Available for purchase at the ticket counter.
☕ Additional Facilities:
- Café & Gift Shop: A cozy café on the second floor offers a place to relax with coffee and snacks. The gift shop sells plush toys, souvenirs, and ocean-themed merchandise.
- Lockers: Available at the entrance for storing bags and personal items.
Travel Tips & Recommendations
✔ For the best experience, visit in the afternoon – Start with lunch at Samcheonpo Yonggung Fish Market, take the cable car, and explore the aquarium. Then, return via cable car and enjoy a sunset view at Gaksan Peak.
✔ Families with kids should consider visiting the nearby zoo, Ferris wheel, and carousel for additional fun.
✔ Check the daily schedule for animal shows – Arriving early can help you secure a good spot for the performances.
✔ If you plan to visit the aquarium and cable car together, purchasing a combo ticket on-site is a cost-effective option. (Online purchases do not include package deals.)
Final Thoughts
Aramaru Aquarium is more than just a place to see fish—it’s a comprehensive marine and wildlife experience packed with educational exhibits, interactive activities, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover, an animal enthusiast, or a family looking for a fun adventure, this is one of the best places to visit in Sacheon, Gyeongnam.
If you’re planning a trip to South Korea’s southern coast, make sure to add Aramaru Aquarium and the Sacheon Marine Cable Car to your itinerary! 🐠🐧🚡
