Photo: Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd.

Hello Kitty Takes Over Oita Airport For Expo 2025

A warm welcome for visitors, with a healthy dose of kawaii

Photo: Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd.
Kim Bergström   - 2 min read

To coincide with the commencement of Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai, Oita Airport has transformed into “Oita Hello Kitty Airport,” a limited-time rebranding in celebration of the event. The makeover is a warm welcome to domestic and international visitors alike, blending the best of kawaii culture with Oita’s signature hospitality.

Photo: Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd.

Running until October 13th, which also happens to be the ending date of the Expo, the project features Sanrio’s beloved characters—including Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Kuromi—throughout the terminal. Visitors can enjoy themed photo spots, unique decorations inside and outside the airport, and exclusive merchandise available only at the airport and Harmonyland, Sanrio’s outdoor theme park in nearby Hiji Town.

Photo: Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd.

From late July, a dedicated bus will run between the airport, Kitsuki Station, and Harmonyland, making it easier than ever for travelers to explore this corner of Kyushu. Additionally, a special Harmonyland display will be set up at Oita's booth at the Osaka-Kansai Expo site in September to help spread the word.

Travelers are encouraged to join the fun on social media by sharing photos and posts with the hashtag #HELLOFromOitaToTheWorld. There is even the chance for participants to win prizes in upcoming campaigns, so be sure to take part if you will be transiting through!

Getting there

Oita Hello Kitty Airport is served by various routes, including a Tokyo (Haneda) to Oita route on both ANA and Japan Airlines. The flight time from Tokyo is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Kim Bergström

Kim Bergström @kim.b

Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here.  🍵🌼🌸