In a dazzling collaboration with Sanrio, Japan’s Oita Airport has undergone a transformation and is now officially called “Oita Hello Kitty Airport.” This temporary rebranding, running from April 17 to October 13, 2025, celebrates both local tourism and the enduring global love for Hello Kitty, especially as Japan prepares for the World Expo in Osaka.
Visitors arriving in Kyushu are greeted by bold pink signage, character-themed interiors, and even a dedicated Hello Kitty shop. From flight boarding passes to staff uniforms, the makeover touches everything with kawaii flair. It’s not just cosmetic either — exclusive merchandise including airport-only T-shirts and keychains are already luring collectors.
Oita isn’t new to the Sanrio universe. The region is home to Harmonyland, a Hello Kitty theme park, making the airport’s rebrand a natural extension. This alignment with local attractions aims to spread Expo-related traffic into lesser-known but beautiful parts of Japan, like Oita’s famous hot springs and serene coastline.
Tourism officials hope the initiative not only delights fans but gives a boost to regional travel. With themed airports now joining character cafés and trains in Japan’s creative tourism arsenal, it’s clear that Hello Kitty remains a powerful cultural ambassador—pink bow and all.
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