Oita Strengthens Global Ties, Launches Park Crowdfunding

On November 18, Oita Prefecture held a press conference to share the outcomes of the governor's visit to San Francisco and to announce several new initiatives.

Strengthening Ties with San Francisco

During his visit, the governor met with the Mayor of San Francisco to discuss ways to deepen exchanges between the two regions. He highlighted similarities between Oita and San Francisco, such as population size and bay-area geography and the San Francisco mayor introduced the city's recent progress in public safety and commercial revitalization.

Collaboration with Stanford University

The governor also visited Stanford University, meeting with professors from the Stanford Program on International and Cross-Cultural Education (SPICE). Stanford has been providing remote lectures to Oita high school students for several years. Building on this partnership, the university agreed to extend remote lectures to university students in Oita. The Governor expressed hope that this will enhance the appeal of Oita's universities and foster globally active talent.

In addition, he met with the director of Stanford's Laboratory for Drug, Device Development and Regulatory Sciences to discuss international business exchanges. As a result, an international economic meeting featuring the director, aimed at strengthening ties between Kyushu and Taiwan, will be held in Oita prefecture.

Promoting Oita's Local Products and Technology

While in San Francisco, Oita Prefecture organized events to showcase local products and tourist attractions, inviting city officials and economic representatives. The governor also experienced Waymo's self-driving taxi service, expressing interest in introducing advanced technologies like autonomous vehicles to Oita.

Crowdfunding for Aso-Kuju National Park

Oita Prefecture has launched a crowdfunding campaign to support maintenance of Aso-Kuju National Park, a popular destination for visitors from outside the prefecture. In partnership with YAMAP, a mountaineering information company, the campaign runs until February 15, 2026, with a target of ¥2 million. Funds will be used for trail maintenance and other conservation efforts.

Upcoming Symposium on Kyushu–Shikoku Transportation

On January 14, 2026, Oita Prefecture will host a symposium on transportation links between Kyushu and Shikoku, emphasizing the importance of improved connections between Oita and Ehime. Officials noted that enhanced infrastructure would benefit the economy, tourism, and disaster response. The symposium will feature a keynote session by a former Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications, as well as panel discussions with regional leaders on strengthening western Japan's role and interregional cooperation.

Expanded Parking Privileges for Mothers of Multiples

The prefecture has extended the period during which mothers of multiple-birth children can use designated parking spaces reserved for persons requiring special consideration. Previously limited to 1.5 years after childbirth, the eligibility period has now been expanded to three years postpartum. Certified users do not need to submit additional applications to access these spaces.

Special Exhibition at Oita Prefectural Museum

Since November 22, the Oita Prefectural Museum has been hosting a special exhibition showcasing approximately 200 works of art, including national treasures. The exhibition highlights valuable antique pieces passed down through generations in Oita.

The event runs until January 14, 2026, and will feature a special lecture by a bestselling author on December 20, offering visitors deeper insights into the cultural heritage on display.