On April 18th, AKB48's Sashihara Rino was appointed as Oita City's first sightseeing ambassador.

Sashihara, who was born in Oita, was chosen for this position because she has continued to talk about her love for the city through TV programs and her official blog.

During a press conference, mayor Kugimiya Ban welcomed Sashihara to her position saying,�"I want her to send out the existence of Oita City to people nationwide. She's very suitable to be the first (ambassador)."

Meanwhile, Sashihara commented, "I will do my best to deliver the unknown charms of Oita City to many people."

To promote tourism, Oita City decided to promote a sightseeing ambassador back in February. They were looking to select a candidate from the entertainment and sports industries.

Sashihara will be the city's sightseeing ambassador for 3 years. Her activities as the ambassador has not been determined at this time, however, a responsible party of the city stated, "We want her to introduce the food of Oita, as well as the Takasakiyama Natural Zoo."

Source & Image: Sanspo