Live Your Best Lives
Explore the marine life exhibits, watch interactive shows, and engage in educational activities about aquatic ecosystems.
Xuzhou Aquarium Exhibition Hall is a national AAAA-level scenic spot. It is located on the picturesque island in the middle of Xuzhou Yunlong Lake. Its main building has a unique shape, like a whale striking the water or a white dolphin lying on the waves. It is full of the artistic atmosphere of modern architectural sculptures and is made into a "Splendid China" purple clay relief permanently inlaid on the wall of the central hall of the Great Hall of the People.
The aquarium, completed and opened on August 18, 1994, was one of the largest freshwater fish exhibition halls in Asia at the time. In 2003, the aquarium underwent a major renovation, maintaining the original freshwater fish inventory while expanding its selection of marine species. From September 2011 to April 2012, the main building and overall environment underwent a comprehensive renovation and upgrade. The aquarium is now a comprehensive entertainment and leisure venue integrating the conservation of rare marine organisms and freshwater fish, marine animal performances, the display of marine specimens, and scientific education. The aquarium is divided into four halls, featuring six large-scale themed biological exhibition areas, showcasing over 200 rare fish species from four continents and five oceans. These include the Chinese sturgeon, a "panda of the water," the Yangtze alligator, a nationally protected species, as well as endangered aquatic species such as giant salamanders, sea lions, seals, sea turtles, and hawksbill turtles.
The Ocean Theater Performance Hall—a favorite among children, boasting adorable cartoon designs on its exterior—covers 500 square meters and accommodates over 300 spectators. It's the first marine animal performance venue in the Huaihai Economic Zone. The theater's captive sea lions are charming, lively, and experienced performers. Under the guidance of professional trainers, they offer over 20 exciting interactive performances, including high jumps, underwater ballet, ball rolling, 360-degree ball twists, and more, including dance, sports, and imitation shows.
The warm temperate humid monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all seasons. The Xuzhou Aquarium Exhibition Hall, with its architectural design reminiscent of the "Splendid China" purple clay relief carvings at the Great Hall of the People, is one of only five modern architectural designs in China, making it a year-round destination.
The Museum of Marine Curiosities displays more than 2,000 bizarre marine life specimens of 700 species in seven categories, including fish, shrimp, crab, beak, turtle, coral, and sea beasts, from my country's four major sea areas, the Xisha and Nansha Islands, the southeastern coast, and the waters of Japan and South Korea, fully displaying the charm of the underwater world.
The Science Cinema—a high-tech venue meticulously constructed with a 500,000 yuan investment—is the Xuzhou Aquarium Exhibition Hall's flagship facility. For years, the Aquarium Exhibition Hall has adhered to the principle of "developing the aquarium industry and serving the public," leveraging its role as a popular science education base to disseminate scientific knowledge, ideas, and methods to the public. The museum has continuously increased its investment in science and research, dedicating itself to this endeavor.
It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.
60 yuan/person
09:00-17:30 (Holidays: 8:30-17:30)
The Xuzhou Aquarium Exhibition Hall is dedicated to educating the public about marine biodiversity and environmental protection through its immersive exhibits and conservation-focused displays.
The aquarium is located in Xuzhou, Jiangsu. You can reach it by taxi or local bus services. The nearest metro station is Xuzhou East Station, with a short taxi ride from there.
The aquarium is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
The entrance fee is approximately 80 RMB for adults and 40 RMB for children. Tickets can be purchased online through the aquarium's official website or at the entrance.
It is recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially on weekends or public holidays. Booking 1-2 days ahead is ideal.
Plan for 2-3 hours to fully explore the exhibits and enjoy the interactive shows.
Be sure to check out the tropical fish tanks, coral reef exhibits, and the live feeding demonstrations.
Guided tours are available in both Mandarin and English. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English.
The large central tank and the jellyfish display are the best photography spots for capturing the colorful marine life.
Start with the freshwater exhibits, move to the tropical fish section, and finish with the open ocean display for a complete experience.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows, but special educational tours are available upon request.
The aquarium can get crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, particularly Tuesday to Thursday, are the least crowded.
The aquarium has clean restrooms, a food court offering snacks and drinks, and a souvenir shop selling aquatic-themed merchandise.
The aquarium is fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and special facilities for disabled visitors.
Both cash and mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted. Credit cards are also welcome.
There is a café inside offering light refreshments. For a wider range of dining options, you can find several restaurants nearby, especially around Xuzhou's main shopping areas.
Yes, the nearby restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, and halal food is also available in certain eateries close by.
There are several hotels near the aquarium, including the Xuzhou Hilton and local budget hotels within walking distance.
Nearby attractions include the Xuzhou Museum and Yunlong Lake, which can easily be combined for a full-day trip.
Yes, the souvenir shop sells marine-themed toys, clothing, and eco-friendly products. Popular items include plush marine animals and aquariums.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or use public transport to continue your trip around Xuzhou, including visiting other local attractions like Yunlong Mountain.
