Hello Kitty Airport in Japan: A Must-Visit Cute Attraction Filipinos Will Love

If you're a certified Sanrio fan or just love Japan's charming kawaii culture, there’s a new travel destination that’s too adorable to skip. Say hello to the newly rebranded Oita Hello Kitty Airport in Kunisaki, Oita Prefecture—the first of its kind in the country and a dream come true for Hello Kitty lovers everywhere.

Image credit: Oita Airport Official Website

This transformation is part of Japan’s broader celebration of the Osaka World Expo 2025, running from April 13 to October 13, 2025. While Tokyo and Osaka remain the usual go-to cities for Filipino tourists, this year presents the perfect opportunity to explore a different side of Japan—one that’s just as fun, but less crowded and even more unique.

Also read: New Japan Visa Application Centres in the Philippines? What You Need to Know

A fascinating Sanrio-themed experience from the moment you land

Photo Spot at the Oita Airport | Official Website

Unlike any other airport in the country, Oita Hello Kitty Airport welcomes travellers with life-sized displays of beloved Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty, Kuromi, My Melody, Cinnamoroll, Badtz-Maru, and the Little Twin Stars. From its entrance to the boarding gates, the terminal is vibrantly decorated inside and out, perfect for selfies and Instagram-worthy travel snaps.

One of the main highlights is a giant hot spring-themed photo zone featuring Hello Kitty and friends in a massive bathing bucket—an adorable tribute to Oita’s rich onsen (hot spring) culture.

Shop exclusive Hello Kitty merchandise

Hello Kitty Merchandise at the Oita Airport | Official Website

Sanrio fans will be thrilled to discover that flying through this airport means taking home something special. Every traveller gets a limited-edition Hello Kitty luggage tag, and the souvenir shop offers a variety of exclusive finds—from T-shirts and cookies to keychains and clear files—all branded with the Oita Hello Kitty Airport logo.

For Filipinos who love collecting Sanrio items or buying unique pasalubong, this is your chance to grab official merchandise you won’t find anywhere else in Japan.

Easy access to Harmonyland: The ultimate Sanrio day trip

Sanrio Character Park Harmonyland | Japan Travel Official Website

The fun doesn’t stop at the airport. A new bus route has been launched to take visitors directly from the airport to Sanrio Character Park Harmonyland, located just an hour away in Oita’s Hayami District.

Harmonyland is one of Japan’s top destinations for Sanrio lovers. With character shows, parades, and themed attractions, it’s a full-day adventure where you can meet Hello Kitty and her friends in a magical park setting.

Why is this a big deal for Filipino travellers

Filipinos are known for their love of Japanese culture, especially anime, kawaii characters, and unique travel experiences. With more Filipinos travelling to Japan than ever before, destinations beyond Tokyo and Osaka are gaining popularity, and Oita Hello Kitty Airport is the perfect example.

This airport makeover is part of Japan’s trend of using pop culture to attract international travellers. Just like Pokémon-themed planes and the One Piece Shinkansen, the Hello Kitty Airport taps into nostalgia and love for Japanese characters—something many Filipinos can relate to.

Plus, with airlines like HK Express expanding their network, more travellers from the Philippines may soon find easier ways to fly into Oita, making it an exciting new stop on your Japan bucket list.

Also read: 8 Japan Travel Tips Every Filipino Should Know in 2025

Final thoughts: Fly cute, fly fun

If you’re travelling to Japan this year, make your trip extra memorable by flying through the Hello Kitty Airport in Japan. This limited-time transformation isn’t just about cute aesthetics—it’s about discovering a lesser-known destination that blends local charm with global pop culture.

Whether you're a Sanrio superfan or simply looking for a unique travel story, Oita Hello Kitty Airport offers a heartwarming start (or end) to your Japan adventure. For Filipino travellers, it’s the perfect mix of culture, cuteness, and convenience!