Tibet's first aquarium opens to public

China's highest-altitude aquarium opened to the public in Lhasa, Tibet autonomous region on Monday, attracting more than 3,000 visitors over it first two days.

At an altitude of 3,650 meters above sea level, the new aquarium, which covers about 1,400 square meters and took nearly a month to build, is the first aquarium in the region.

Open for trial operation, it features activities such as a sea animal exhibition, modern marine technology experience, science education, tourism and culture.

Li Hongzhi, who is responsible for the aquarium, said more than 200 aquatic species and more than 200 marine specimens are on display, including a few ocean animals such as sharks, coral and other species.

"We have guides working at the aquarium every day, so people can learn more about marine animals and related information," Li said.

Chime Rikzin, a resident of Lhasa, said the aquarium was interesting. It was the first time he and his family had visited an aquarium, and his son was especially excited about the experience.

"It is useful for kids to learn more about aquatic life, and it's good to see the creatures rather than just read about them in books or see them on TV," he said.