[Day Trip Plan] Fun for Both Kids and Adults! Discover the Charms of Kobe Suma Sea World, Just a Short Trip from Osaka

Opening in June 2024, the new Kobe Suma Sea World is located just 1 to 1.5 hours from Osaka, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. Built on the site of the beloved Suma Seaside Aquarium (affectionately called “Sumasui”), this is the only aquarium in western Japan where you can see orcas (killer whales) in shows and exhibits.

At Kobe Suma Sea World, you can enjoy a variety of experiences, such as dining at a restaurant while watching orcas swim, or interacting with dolphins on the beach. The aquarium offers a wide range of attractions that will captivate both children and adults. In this two-part article, a traveling cat will share the highlights and personal experiences of this exciting destination!
Let’s introduce the charm of Kobe Suma Sea World! It’s definitely worth a visit, so be sure to check it out!

Here’s an introduction to Kobe Suma Sea World!
It’s definitely worth a visit, so be sure to check it out!

●Experience report of Kobe Suma Sea World is here!

2024.12.18

【Experience Report! Packed with Photos!】A Must-See Orca Show! Guide to Enjoying Kobe Suma Sea World 【Part 1】

Kobe Suma Sea World, which opened on the site of the former Kobe ...

2024.12.18

【Experience Report! Full of Photos!】Enjoy Cute Penguins, Seals, and Dolphins! Even a Restaurant with Orcas! A Guide to Kobe Suma Sea World 【Part 2】

This is the second part of the guide to enjoying Kobe Suma Sea Wo...

What is Kobe Suma Sea World?

Located on the site of the former Suma Seaside Aquarium, Kobe Suma Sea World is a newly established “Edutainment Aquarium,” blending learning (education) with entertainment. The concept focuses on “learning through enjoyment,” designed to captivate visitors of all ages.
Popular dolphin performances, which were loved at Suma Seaside Aquarium, continue at Kobe Suma Sea World. Additionally, the aquarium is the only place in western Japan to showcase orcas, with thrilling orca performances at the Orca Stadium. Visitors can also enjoy exhibits showcasing creatures from the Seto Inland Sea and Rokko River system, including adorable penguins, sea lions, and seals.
Next, let’s explore the must-see attractions of Kobe Suma Sea World!

Highlight 1: The Only Orca Exhibition in Western Japan

When visiting Kobe Suma Sea World, one must-see highlight is the only killer whale exhibit in western Japan!
Killer whales are internationally recognized as a rare species and, like dolphins and whales, are protected animals. Additionally, their capture is strictly regulated under the Washington Convention, and in Japan, they can only be caught for academic purposes.

As of December 2024, there are only three places in Japan where you can see killer whales: Kobe Suma Sea World, Kamogawa Sea World, and Nagoya Port Aquarium.
The killer whales currently kept in Japan are within three degrees of kinship and are unable to breed naturally. Since breeding and raising killer whales remain challenging, it’s unlikely their population will increase significantly, making aquariums with killer whales incredibly valuable.

The killer whales at Kobe Suma Sea World include “Ran,” who came from Kamogawa Sea World, and “Stella,” who moved from Nagoya Port Aquarium. Ran is Stella’s offspring, and although they were once separated, they were reunited at Kobe Suma Sea World.

Stella and Ran now perform breathtakingly synchronized shows at the Orca Stadium, offering an incredible experience. Details about the killer whale shows will be shared in a future report, so stay tuned!

You can also enjoy watching Stella and Ran swim gracefully together while dining at the restaurant overlooking their exhibit. This is a must-see spot! Since the restaurant is very popular, reservations are highly recommended.

Highlight 2: Popular Dolphin Performances from the Sumasui Era

The beloved dolphin performances, a legacy of Suma Seaside Aquarium, are also a major draw at Kobe Suma Sea World. Experience these amazing performances firsthand in the upcoming experience report.

Another popular attraction is the Dolphin Communication, where visitors can interact with dolphins. Located on the second floor of the Dolphin Stadium, the Dolphin Beach offers an exclusive chance to interact with the dolphins up close. You can also enjoy educational talks from the trainers and take memorable photos. Please check the official website for any schedule changes or cancellations before visiting.

In the first floor Dolphin Hall, visitors can observe dolphins swimming underwater—a perfect spot to enjoy their playful antics.

Highlight 3: “The Life of Water” at Aqua Live

At the Aqua Live section, the concept of “The Life of Water” highlights the importance of water, featuring lush greenery and powerful waterfalls that create a unique atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy exhibits such as “Local Life,” which showcases endangered species from the Seto Inland Sea, and “Jellyfish Life,” with an array of mesmerizing jellyfish. The Touching Pool allows visitors to interact with sea creatures, and Suma Collection displays freshwater fish previously housed at Suma Seaside Aquarium.

Other exhibits include the Tropical Life section, with a large ocean tank housing sharks and rays, and the Rocky Life area where you can observe sea otters, seals, penguins, and sea turtles.

Highlight 4: Enjoy Local Cuisine at the Food & Restaurants

Kobe Suma Sea World * offers several dining options to enjoy delicious food during your visit.

Blue Ocean Orca Stadium

The highlight is the Blue Ocean Orca Stadium, a buffet restaurant where you can dine while watching orcas swim. The menu features dishes made with locally sourced ingredients from Kobe and Hyogo Prefecture. It’s a family-friendly spot with plenty of kid-friendly options. Reservations are recommended, especially if you want a table near the orcas. Be sure to check the official website for booking and menu details.

Port Diner Orca Stadium

For a more casual meal, the Port Diner offers quick bites, including fried chicken, fries, churros, and soft-serve ice cream. You can also grab a refreshing drink here.

※Admission tickets to Kobe Suma Sea World are required.
※Menus are subject to seasonal changes. Please check the official website for operating hours and details before your visit.

Wharf Dolphin Stadium

It’s a food court that emphasizes local production for local consumption, offering a spacious and open atmosphere where you can enjoy ingredients sourced from Hyogo Prefecture.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, Wharf Dolphin Stadium features local cuisine, such as hamburgers, pizza, and hot dogs, as well as a variety of original desserts and drinks.

※Admission tickets to Kobe Suma Sea World are required.
※Menus are subject to seasonal changes. Please check the official website for operating hours and details before your visit.

You can also get to Kobe Suma Sea World from It’ta de!

Access to Kobe Suma Sea World

●From It’ta de JPN (It’ta de Japan): Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes

●From It’ta de ChouChou: Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes

●From It’ta de LYCKA: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes

●From It’ta de MORRIS/RETRO: Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes

Convenient Vacation Rentals for Osaka Sightseeing♪ Easy Access Along the Osaka Metro Line!

It’ ta de MORRIS / It’ ta de RETRO

Stay stylish at It’ ta de MORRIS, with its chic Morris-inspired decor, or experience a nostalgic charm at It’ ta de RETRO, blending retro Showa-era vibes with modern touches.
Perfectly located for exploring Osaka’s top attractions, these vacation rentals offer excellent accessibility to ensure an enjoyable Osaka stay!

5-minute walk from Osaka Metro Hanazono Station,10-minute walk from Nankai Tengachaya Station,11-minute walk from Hankai Tramway Imafune Station／Maximum capacity: 8 guests

Here’s the Room Information for It’ ta de MORRIS!

Here’s the Room Information for It’ ta de RETRO!