Oga Aquarium GAO

Oga Aquarium GAO is Akita Prefecture’s only full-scale aquarium, located in Oga City on the west side of the Oga Peninsula in a spectacular spot overlooking the Sea of Japan. Surrounded by the majestic sea and abundant nature, the name “GAO” comes from the initials of “G: Globe,” “A: Aquarium,” and “O: Oga.”

Inside the aquarium, about 400 species and 10,000 marine and freshwater creatures are on display, and the facility offers extensive permanent exhibits and hands-on experiences that make the most of the region’s unique character. Since its renewal and reopening in 2004, it has also become known as a filming location for the movie Tsuribaka Nisshi and is widely loved as one of Akita’s signature tourist attractions.

A Powerful Highlight: The “Oga Sea Large Tank” and Immersive Exhibits
The symbolic centerpiece of Oga Aquarium GAO is the “Oga Sea Large Tank.” This विशाल tank, about 8 meters deep, recreates the environment of the Oga Sea from spring through autumn and is home to about 40 species and 2,000 fish, creating a breathtaking sight that overwhelms visitors.

Another unique feature of GAO is its year-round display of hatahata, the official fish of Akita Prefecture. Part of the tank is designed so that visitors can look up and see fish swimming overhead, offering an immersive experience that feels as if you are underwater yourself. This area is especially popular with families with small children.

A Favorite Attraction: Polar Bear Gota
Another major highlight at GAO is the polar bear. The current resident is the male “Gota,” whose massive body, nearly 3 meters long, is impressive as he swims powerfully around the pool. Visitors can also watch him playing with toys and eating, and many are captivated by both his charm and his overwhelming presence.

The female polar bear “Yuki,” who lived here in the past, was also beloved for many years and remains an important part of GAO’s history.

Regionally Focused Exhibits Recreating Akita’s Sea, Rivers, and Forests
One of the major attractions inside the aquarium is the exhibit that recreates the natural environment of Oga and Akita. In addition to fish native to the Sea of Japan, the aquarium introduces creatures that live in Akita’s rivers and forests, allowing visitors to observe the region’s unique ecosystems up close. By experiencing forms of familiar nature that are not often encountered in daily life, both children and adults can enjoy learning together.

To the Seas of the World: Coral Reefs and Amazon Creatures
On the third floor, visitors can go beyond Akita’s seas and encounter creatures living in waters around the world. Colorful reef fish and freshwater species from the Amazon River are displayed in environments that recreate seas and rivers from different regions, with the theme of “the nurturing sea” conveying the diversity of life and the importance of nature conservation.

Meet Penguins, Sea Lions, and Seals
Near the entrance of the aquarium, sea lions and seals greet visitors energetically. Inside, you can also observe the adorable penguins, and since the exhibit area may change depending on the season, there is always something new to discover on each visit.

Hands-On Fun at the Touch Pool
A particularly popular area for young children is the touch pool. It features creatures such as sea stars and sea cucumbers that visitors can actually touch, offering a precious opportunity to get up close and personal with marine life. Explanations from the aquarium staff are also provided, making it an educational and enjoyable corner.

Museum Shop and Restaurant “Frutto”
The museum shop inside the aquarium offers GAO original goods, stuffed animals, aquarium-themed souvenirs, and local specialties from Oga. Many items are exclusive and can only be found here, making them perfect keepsakes or gifts.

At the restaurant “Frutto,” visitors can enjoy dishes made with seasonal local ingredients while looking out through large glass windows over the Sea of Japan. On clear days, the beautiful view of the sunset sinking into the horizon, and in winter the “wave flowers” scattering across the rough sea, provide natural scenery that soothes the heart throughout the seasons.

Perfect for Combining with Nearby Sightseeing
Oga Aquarium GAO is also very conveniently located as a base for sightseeing on the Oga Peninsula. Nearby, there are scenic spots such as Nyudozaki, Toga Bay, and the Great Pier, making it an excellent choice to combine the aquarium with a tour of Oga’s nature and culture.

Oga Aquarium GAO is a captivating destination full of learning and discovery, where visitors can encounter the marine world unique to Akita as well as aquatic life from around the globe. In addition to popular exhibits such as the polar bear and hatahata, this place allows guests to feel the wonder of the sea through hands-on experiences and close encounters. It is perfect not only for families, but also for couples and groups of friends. If you visit Oga, be sure to stop by.