Just 40 Minutes from Osaka! Snap Dreamy Goldfish Photos at NARA KINGYO MUSEUM

Only about 40 minutes by train from Osaka, NARA KINGYO MUSEUM in Nara City is a must-visit spot for eye-catching photos. As one of Japan’s top goldfish-breeding regions, Nara is home to this massive, one-of-a-kind art museum where around 40 species and over 200 goldfish swim through dazzling, artist-designed spaces. Think projection mapping, colorful exhibits, and even the world’s first 58-faced diamond-cut tank. Everywhere you turn is a photo op—don’t forget your phone or camera!—so don’t forget your phone or camera! On the same floor, you’ll also find NARA IKIMONO MUSEUM, where over 100 species of reptiles and tropical fish await. It’s a unique combo of art and living creatures you won’t find anywhere else. Free shuttle buses run from JR Nara Station, so why not take a break from temple hopping and explore a whole new side of Nara?

The Must-Snap Flower Wall at NARA KINGYO MUSEUM
Light, Water, and Goldfish: JAPANESE AQUARIUM DISCO
Step Back in Time: JAPONE Alley
Don’t Miss: NARA IKIMONO MUSEUM with Reptiles and Tropical Fish

The Must-Snap Flower Wall at NARA KINGYO MUSEUM

Step into a world of fantasy, with seven immersive art zones designed by different artists. One of the most popular spots? The Flower Wall—a vibrant wall covered top to bottom in blooms. Surrounded by flowers, it’s the perfect place to strike a pose and snap that Insta-worthy shot.

Light, Water, and Goldfish: JAPANESE AQUARIUM DISCO

One of the most surreal spots is JAPANESE AQUARIUM DISCO—a dreamlike space where goldfish, seasonal Japanese landscapes, and high-tech art come together. Under a sparkling mirror ball, the 58-faced diamond-cut aquarium—the first of its kind—shimmers as goldfish swim like they’re dancing. It’s mesmerizing, and you might just lose track of time watching them.

Step Back in Time: JAPONE Alley

JAPONE Alley(JAPONE Kouji) brings the beauty of old Japan to life. Soft lighting and 21 Japanese umbrellas create a magical atmosphere, surrounded by seasonal imagery like cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. It feels like walking through a living Edo-period painting—a place where you can truly feel the depth of Japanese culture.

Don’t Miss: NARA IKIMONO MUSEUM with Reptiles and Tropical Fish

Right on the same floor, NARA IKIMONO MUSEUM is home to over 100 creatures, including 60 kinds of reptiles and 40 types of tropical fish. You can even feed iguanas and lizards up close! It’s a hands-on, photo-friendly experience that’s super popular with families and animal lovers alike.