Cayetano advertises in Japan

Advertiser Staff

The Hawai'i Visitor's & Convention Bureau spent $485,000 to run this full-page ad (translation at bottom) in eight Japanese newspapers in October. One goal of the state's marketing campaign was to assure Japanese travelers that it was not rude to vacation in Hawai'i while Americans were fighting in Afghanistan.

To Our Dear Friends in Japan,

From all of us who are saddened by the recent events, on behalf of Hawai'i, I would like to express sincere appreciation for your sympathy and prayers.

I understand that many of you are wondering if it is acceptable to have fun under these circumstances, and that some of you are considering cancelling trips you have planned.

The amount of courage you have given us with your kind consideration and empathy is beyond expression.

However, please understand more than ever we want you to come to Hawai'i.

For you to come to Hawai'i now will give us tremendous support and encouragement to be able to move forward.

As governor of the state, I promise that I will do my best to ensure that you will enjoy your visit to Hawai'i (that has returned to normal).

Hawai'i is as it has always been. Please come to Hawai'i without worry.

We would like to return the compassion you have shown us with the heartfelt hospitality that only Hawai'i can provide.

See you in Hawai'i. We wait for you with open arms (from our heart).

Aloha,

Governor, State of Hawai'i

Benjamin Cayetano