TOKYO (Bernama-Kyodo): Oita Prefecture in southwestern Japan plans to temporarily rebrand its airport as "Oita Hello Kitty Airport” in a bid to attract tourists travelling to Japan for the upcoming World Exposition in Osaka, Kyodo News Agency reported.
The six-month campaign, beginning on April 13 to coincide with the opening of Expo 2025 Osaka, will promote the prefecture as a fun and family-friendly destination.
Oita is home to Harmonyland, one of only two Sanrio character theme parks in Japan -- the other being in Tokyo.
To welcome visitors, Oita Airport will feature banners and a photo spot showcasing Hello Kitty and other beloved Sanrio characters, the Oita Prefectural Government and Sanrio Entertainment Co announced.
A dedicated shuttle bus service between the airport and Harmonyland will also operate from August to October.
"We will make every effort to ensure Harmonyland plays a role in attracting both domestic and international tourists as one of Oita Prefecture’s highlights,” a prefectural official said.
Oita is also famous for its hot springs and saw a record high of 1.5 million foreign visitors in 2024.
The airport currently offers domestic flights as well as international connections to South Korea and Taiwan.
Oita Governor Kiichiro Sato, in a press release, expressed hopes that the rebranding would help showcase the prefecture’s diverse appeal while Expo 2025 is under way.
Sanrio Entertainment President Aya Komaki added that the company aims to transform Harmonyland into a comprehensive "entertainment and resort area”. -- Bernama-Kyodo
