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Celebrating Oita's Artistry: ENGAWA's Triumph at CJPF AWARD 2026

In a remarkable achievement for Oita's tourism, ENGAWA Corporation has been awarded the Grand Prix in the movie category at the CJPF AWARD 2026 for its captivating PR film, 'Discover Oita's Hidden Gems: The Art Edition.' This competition, overseen by the Cabinet Office's Cool Japan public-private partnership platform, recognizes outstanding projects that promote the allure of Japan on a global scale.

The award-winning film, which highlights the art and cultural aspects of Oita, has impressed the judges with its storytelling and breathtaking visuals. The film aims to unveil Oita's hidden treasures and contribute significantly to regional branding efforts.

A Dedicated Team Behind the Success

The project, developed in collaboration with the Oita Prefectural Tourism Bureau, features a guest speaker from the bureau, who will share insights at an inbound seminar scheduled for March 26, 2026. This event targets inbound professionals from companies and municipalities, focusing on branding that resonates with high-value travelers and strategic use of video, media, and social media.

What Makes the CJPF AWARD Stand Out?

The CJPF AWARD is part of the Cool Japan strategy, designed to spread Japan's charm globally and support inbound tourism and regional revitalization. Oita's success in this competitive field is both a testament to its rich cultural resources and an inspiration for further promotional activities.

Quotes from the Team

Kaito Kodama, the chief officer at the Oita Prefectural Tourism Bureau, expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the intention behind the film to help audiences around the world discover Oita’s unique and hidden gems. He noted how the rich tapestry of Oita’s arts and history was captured through thoughtful storytelling and visual artistry, striving to draw in both domestic and international travelers.

Naoki Umeda, the film's director and creative lead, also thanked all involved, sharing how the filming process surpassed expectations, especially during the Hita Gion Festival. Umeda recalls how vibrant cultural experiences provided the project's essential foundation. Over a month, the team documented 70 locations to genuinely convey Oita’s essence.

Shizuka Kimura, producer at ENGAWA, highlighted their commitment to portraying Oita’s diverse resources through stories that resonate cross-culturally, particularly targeting audiences from Europe, the United States, and Australia. Kimura feels proud of the recognition, which reflects the beauty observed during their travels in Oita.

About 'Discover Oita's Hidden Gems: The Art Edition'

The film serves as a tourism PR tool aimed at foreign visitors, delivering an immersive 4K cinematic experience of Oita's unparalleled blend of nature and culture. It is one part of a four-part series that addresses various themes, including art, nature, cuisine, and experiences in the region.

Highlights of the Film

• - Dynamic Aerial Perspectives: Utilizes drone footage to showcase Oita's breathtaking landscapes.
• - Immersive Storytelling: Designed without relying heavily on narration, allowing the visuals to speak.

Upcoming Seminar Announcement

To mark this achievement, ENGAWA will host a seminar titled “Why Creativity Determines Brand Perception?” on March 26, 2026. It will delve into understanding how consistent communication across media, official videos, and social networks can impact attracting affluent travelers.

Target attendees include marketing professionals from hotels, ryokans (traditional inns), and municipal authorities.

Conclusion

With Oita’s artistic and cultural heritage being brought into the spotlight, the joint efforts of ENGAWA and involved stakeholders promise to continue engaging both foreign tourists and local audiences. This award serves as an incredible motivation to amplify Oita’s narratives and unique experiences further into the global arena.

For more details about the seminar, please visit here.