Nestled on the southern coast of Taiwan near Kenting National Park and Hengchun Township is the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium. The structure and park cover over 96 hectares of land focusing on water exhibits divided into three zones. Visitors will enjoy the rich marine life on offer, the feeding shows and a major highlight, the underwater glass viewing tunnels.
Visitors can begin their walk through the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium at “Waters of Taiwan”. This aquarium replicates the waters from around this Asian island. With mountain streams, rivers and southern Taiwanese oceans displayed, it is possible to view rare marine life from this part of the world. Expect to see cuttlefish, nurse sharks, Indo-Pacific tarpon and spotted eagle rays. There is an acrylic viewing window and a fascinating 80-metre shark tunnel. “Coral Kingdom” Pavilion focuses on breathtaking coral reef exhibits. The 84-metre long glass tunnel allows visitors to admire coral reefs, sunken ships and beluga whales. One of the most interesting exhibits is “Waters of the World”. The underwater habitat simulates Underwater Forests, Arctic Waters and Ancient Time Oceans. The displays showcase fascinating exhibits ranging from Birth of the Earth to Fossil Discovery and the Polar Lights.
Visitors arriving by car from Kaohsiung is possible, as the roads and highways are well signposted. It is also possible to travel via public transport. There is a Kenting Express Line bus which operates to the museum. NMMBA is around 10 minutes from Hengchun Airport by taxi or rental car. Trains operate from Hengchun Township to Gui Shan taking less than two hours. Driving from Hengchun Township to the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium takes just under 20 minutes.
NMMBA opened in February 2000, making it the largest water park and museum in Taiwan. The centre has been categorised as one of the best museums of its kind in Asia. Visitors head to the museum and aquarium to discover more about marine life in the waters of Taiwan and this region. The parks research facilities and academic research centres have allowed it to be recognised throughout the world.