In Hokkaido, the five-pointed star was historically used as the symbol of the Hokkaido Development Commission, and the shape of the star can be said to be one of the identities of the city of Sapporo. The Sapporo City mark (Sapporo City Emblem) also has a star-shaped motif, just like the starfish, and is widely used on fire hydrants, manholes, tourist facilities, corporate logos, and more within the city.

In cooperation with Sapporo City, this special exhibition will implement an observation experience program in which participants can choose and vote for a "star" suitable for the city's emblem, following the Tanabata culture of writing wishes on paper strips. This is a collaborative program between the aquarium and the city, where participants can enjoy learning about the "Sapporo City Emblem" and its history while observing the various characteristics of starfish.

■Exhibition: A total of 10 types of starfish will be exhibited, including 8 new types
Ten types of starfish will be on display, including new exhibits such as the starfish Punctatus starfish and river cricket starfish.
・Exhibited creatures: Starfish, river starfish, starfish, staghorn starfish, staghorn starfish, blue starfish, Japanese maple shell, manju starfish, Luzon starfish, biscuit starfish. *Exhibitions may be changed or canceled depending on the health of the creatures.
■ Experience program: Wish upon a star! "Sapporo Star is Born!"
From the 10 types of starfish on display in the special exhibition, which are diverse in color and shape, participants will be able to choose the starfish most suitable for the Sapporo City emblem as the "Star of Sapporo" and vote for it. The results of the vote will be regularly posted on AOAO SAPPORO's social media, along with information about the wonders of starfish.