Oita Highlights Expo Exhibit, Global Ties, and Local Innovation

On September 2, Oita Prefecture held a press conference to announce its upcoming participation in Expo 2025 Osaka, a diplomatic visit from the President of Prince Edward Island, Canada, the launch of a crowdfunding campaign for children's cafeterias, and the rollout of a new carbon credit initiative.

Oita to Showcase Regional Culture at Expo 2025 Osaka

Oita Prefecture joined other Kyushu prefectures in a joint exhibition at Expo 2025 Osaka. The Oita booth featured interactive experiences including greetings with Hello Kitty(※1), themed merchandise from Hello Kitty and *Attack on Titan*(※2), and hands-on demonstrations of traditional bamboo crafts.

In addition, a supplementary exhibition will be held at Oita Station from September 20 to 21. Planned attractions include a performance from Harmony Land—Sanrio's character-themed amusement park—local food tastings, traditional craft demonstrations, and a cool-footbath experience.

※1 The amusement park run by Sanrio is located in Oita Prefecture.

※2 The creator of Attack on Titan, is originally from Oita Prefecture.

Strengthening Ties with Prince Edward Island

Following a visit to Expo 2025 Osaka, the President of Prince Edward Island, Canada, will travel to Oita Prefecture. Located on Canada's east coast, Prince Edward Island is known for its seafood and potatoes, and serves as the setting for *Anne of Green Gables*. Notably, the Japanese translator of the novel hails from Oita.

The governor expressed hopes that the visit will deepen ties between the two regions.

Crowdfunding Campaign for Children's Cafeterias

Oita Prefecture has launched a crowdfunding initiative to support children's cafeterias—community spaces where volunteers provide meals, educational support, crafts, and other activities for children.

Funds raised will be distributed through the Oita Council of Social Welfare and used to purchase food, cooking utensils, and other essential supplies.

Launch of Carbon Credit Community Program

Oita Prefecture also announced the establishment of a carbon credit community, enabling registered participants to sell carbon credits based on their CO₂ reduction efforts. The program is jointly operated by the prefectural government, local financial institutions, and a private company.

Key functions include member recruitment, emissions monitoring, and credit trading. Participants can earn revenue by reducing emissions through solar power generation and publicly promote their contributions to environmental sustainability.