Beijing Aquarium

Historical Overview

Founded in 1999 as part of Beijing’s urban ecological development plan, the aquarium expanded in 2008 to include a dedicated “Ocean Theater” for dolphin and sea lion performances. In 2016, it launched the “Coral Reef Conservation Center” to breed endangered species, earning recognition from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Today, it collaborates with global marine institutes to protect species like the green sea turtle and giant grouper.

Structural Layout

The aquarium follows a thematic zoning system:

• Rainforest Wonderland: Simulates Amazonian habitats with piranhas, anacondas, and tropical birds.
• Coral Reef Adventure: Features vibrant clownfish, stingrays, and a 360° coral reef display.
• Ocean Theater: A 1,800-seat arena for dolphin, beluga whale, and sea lion performances.
• Polar World: Home to penguins, Arctic foxes, and seals in chilled environments.
• China’s Seas Zone: Showcases endangered Yangtze River sturgeon and South China Sea species.

Key facilities include the “Marine Science Classroom” and a 4D cinema.

Major Attractions

Underwater Tunnel: A 60-meter acrylic walkway surrounded by sharks, rays, and giant groupers.

Dolphin and Beluga Show: Daily performances featuring acrobatic routines and interactive segments.

Jellyfish Gallery: A mesmerizing display of moon jellies, sea nettles, and glowing deep-sea species.

Penguin Paradise: Observe king penguins and Humboldt penguins in a climate-controlled habitat.

Touch Pool: Hands-on experience with starfish, sea cucumbers, and small sharks (supervised).

Coral Reef Lab: A behind-the-scenes look at coral propagation and conservation efforts.

Suggested Itineraries

• Quick Family Tour (1.5–2 hours):

Start at Main Entrance → Rainforest Wonderland → Coral Reef Adventure → Touch Pool → Ocean Theater (showtime) → Exit.

Highlights: Ideal for young children; ends with a popular dolphin show.

• Standard Exploration (3–4 hours):

Begin at Rainforest Zone → Coral Reef Gallery → Underwater Tunnel → China’s Seas Exhibit → Polar World → Dolphin Show → Exit.

Highlights: Covers all major zones and includes a performance.

• Comprehensive Experience (5–6 hours):

Main Entrance → Rainforest Wonderland → Coral Reef Lab → Underwater Tunnel → China’s Seas Zone → Polar World → Marine Science Classroom (workshop) → Dolphin and Beluga Show → 4D Cinema → Exit.

Highlights: Includes educational workshops and immersive films.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via the official website or platforms like Ctrip and Meituan (up to 7 days in advance).

On-Site: Tickets available at entrances; arrive early to avoid queues.

• Prices:

Standard Ticket: ¥175 (adults), ¥85 (students/seniors).

Combo Ticket (Aquarium + Zoo): ¥200 (adults), ¥100 (students/seniors).

Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and military personnel.

Ocean Theater Add-On: ¥50–¥80 (premium seating).

Transportation

Subway: Line 4 to Beijing Zoo Station (Exit B), walk 5 minutes to the aquarium.

Bus: Routes 27, 45, 332, 347, 360, or 534 to Beijing Zoo Stop.

Taxi: Direct to Beijing Aquarium; 20 minutes from downtown.

Parking: Available at Beijing Zoo (¥10/hour).

Best Time & Tips

Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays; weekends and holidays (especially summer vacation) are busiest.

Show Times: Dolphin/beluga shows run hourly (10 AM–4 PM); arrive 30 minutes early for seats.

• Essentials:

Wear layers (temperatures vary by zone).

Bring a waterproof phone case for the underwater tunnel.

Pack snacks (food inside is limited).

Prohibited: Flash photography, outside food for animals, and large bags.

Conservation Tip: Participate in the “Adopt a Coral” program to support reef restoration.