Oga Aquarium GAO — Attraction in Oga

Oga Aquarium Gao Oga Suizokukan Gao), officially Akita Prefectural Oga Aquarium, is an aquarium located along Oga Peninsula coast, Oga, Akita Prefecture, Japan. GAO stands for Globe, Aqua and Ocean, and sounds like an Oga-native Namahage shout.[6] Overlooking Sea of Japan, it keeps and displays over 10,000 marine organisms, including those from Akita Prefecture's abundant marine resources and over 400 species of rare aquatic animals from around the world. This is the only tank in Japan where they have Japanese sandfish on display all year round. They also have a touch pool section where you can handle different sea creatures, such as sea urchin and sea cucumbers. During the New Year’s season, divers dress up as Namahage and feed the fishes in the main tank. The aquarium has appeared in film...

An aquarium at the tip of the Oga Peninsula in Akita Prefecture. Since it was a local aquarium, I entered the aquarium without much expectation. However, it was a wonderful aquarium that far exceeded expectations. They exhibit saltwater fish, freshwater fish, sea lions, penguins, and other animals that take advantage of their behavior and characteristics. I was able to enjoy it enough even if an adult watched it. It was compatible with coronavirus, and the body temperature was measured with a thermography camera at the entrance. The infectious diseases were well dealt with, and I could feel the high awareness of the people involved in the aquarium. If you come to Akita prefecture, I definitely recommend...

The coastal road drive from Akita to the Aquarium GAO is very scenic, passing by fishing villages, stretches of wind turbines and stunning views of Japan Sea.

There are lots of parking spots. Upon entering you will see a giant tank with big stingrays swimming among the fishes. The seals and sea lion performances during feeding time is very entertaining and the trainers are very professional. We can see it up close and it’s a lot of fun. There is also a polar bear but because the summer day is extremely hot, the bear needs to be protected and stayed in the shade. Overall a nice experience and very suitable for kids and families.

Outside the Aquarium, you can see the rugged coastline of the Oga Peninsula and...