Hangzhou Underwater World

Introducing Hangzhou Underwater World

Located on the shores of Hangzhou's beautiful West Lake, Hangzhou Underwater World, with a construction area of ​​4,000 square meters, is a modern marine life expo integrating leisure, sightseeing, and science education. With a total water volume of 1,500 tons, it houses over 500 types of aquatic and marine animals. It is the earliest professional oceanarium to be built and opened in Zhejiang Province, and serves as a popular science education base for young people in both Zhejiang Province and Hangzhou City.

The main building of the Underwater World is divided into three floors, each housing various exhibition areas. The first floor features the freshwater biological area, underwater tunnel, and ocean theater; the second floor includes the coral reef biological area, fisherman's wharf, tropical rainforest, amphibian hall, and parent-child interactive area; and the third floor features a marine animal performance theater and mini zoo. The winding underwater tunnel is the highlight of the Underwater World, with azure blue waters and schools of colorful fish overhead.

See magical marine life, stroll through the country's longest coral sea view tunnel, enjoy the thrilling human-shark dance show, encounter more than 250 kinds of strange and bizarre marine creatures, and let you fully appreciate the colorful and vibrant underwater wonders.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

120 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:30-17:00 ( last admission at 16:30 )

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Most Popular FAQs for Hangzhou Underwater World

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Hangzhou Underwater World is one of the largest aquatic parks in China, featuring a vast collection of marine life. It plays a significant role in marine conservation education and offers a fun, educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Underwater World is located in the Binjiang district of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. You can reach it by taxi or by taking bus routes that stop near the entrance. The closest metro station is the "Xiaoshan International Airport" line, followed by a short taxi ride.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Hangzhou Underwater World is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Weekdays, especially in the morning, tend to be less crowded, making it a good time to visit. Weekends and public holidays are typically busier.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The general entrance fee is around 120-150 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it’s also possible to buy them online through various Chinese ticket platforms for convenience and discounts during promotions.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended during peak seasons (summer and public holidays) to avoid long queues. You can book tickets up to a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 2-3 hours to fully explore Hangzhou Underwater World, including watching shows and exploring the various marine exhibits.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The underwater tunnel, where you can walk through and watch fish, sharks, and rays swimming above you.
• The jellyfish exhibition, showcasing beautiful and ethereal jellyfish in various colors and sizes.
• The touch pool, where you can get hands-on with starfish, sea cucumbers, and other marine creatures.
• The 4D cinema that provides an immersive experience of the ocean's wonders.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, and some may offer English-speaking guides, though it’s more common to have Mandarin-speaking guides. Audio guides are available for rent in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spot is the underwater tunnel, where you can capture the fish swimming overhead. The jellyfish exhibition is also a great spot for unique and ethereal photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the aquarium tanks to view larger fish species, then proceed to the underwater tunnel and jellyfish exhibits. Afterward, visit the touch pools and wrap up with the 4D cinema for a fun, immersive experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, the attraction does not offer specific night visits or light shows. However, special tours may be available during peak seasons, so it’s worth checking in advance for any events or activities.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The aquarium tends to be crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning, as this is when the attraction is least busy.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are restrooms available throughout the facility, along with a café and snack stands where you can buy drinks and light food. Gift shops are also available for souvenirs.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction is accessible to all visitors, including the elderly and those with disabilities, with ramps and elevators provided for easier access to all areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted. It’s advisable to have a mobile payment app set up, as cash payments may not always be convenient.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• A café inside the attraction offers light snacks and drinks.
• Nearby, you can find a variety of restaurants serving local Hangzhou cuisine, such as Xihu (West Lake) dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is available at most restaurants nearby. Vegan and halal options are more limited but can be found in certain local eateries around the attraction.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several mid-range hotels near the Underwater World, such as Courtyard by Marriott Hangzhou and Hangzhou Kaixuan Hotel.
• Luxury hotels such as Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake are within a short drive from the attraction.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• West Lake, one of China’s most famous scenic spots, is nearby and a must-see in Hangzhou.
• The China National Silk Museum and the Lingyin Temple are also nearby and can be combined with a visit to the Underwater World.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops are available inside the attraction, selling marine-themed toys, apparel, and small trinkets like keychains and postcards.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxis and ride-hailing services like Didi are convenient for continuing your trip to other attractions in Hangzhou.
• Public buses and metro stations are also nearby if you wish to use public transportation to explore the city.