VIBE

State-of-the-art aquarium offering close-ups of everything from sharks and starfish to a chunk of coral reef. A one-of-a-kind underwater tunnel gives visitors a cool “diver’s-eye view” of the main tank, while smaller tanks around the sides offer an excellent education in undersea life. The daily highlight is when specially trained divers descend into the tank to feed the sharks.

GO HERE WITH

Friends; family; kids

WHY WE LIKE IT

The exhibits are informative and well curated, and the underwater tunnel is flat-out cool. Excellent rainy day activity, especially for those with kids.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The afternoon “mermaid” shows (basically just “lovely ladies” in sequined costumes cavorting in a water tank)…they’re a little creepy.

GOOD TO KNOW

This is the largest aquarium of its type in Asia–its central tank can hold 3.5 million liters of saltwater. If you fancy a dive, you can inquire about diving in the central tank (scuba classes are also held here). If you’re planning on making repeat visits to the aquarium, it might be worth snagging a one-year pass for RMB 280. It gives unlimited entries for the year, as well as 20% off for accompanying guests and a discount at the gift shop. And if you’re planning on getting hitched in Beijing, Blue Zoo offers underwater marriage ceremonies…

CLOSEST COMPS

Shedd Aquarium (Chicago)