Japanese Representative Reaches Global Top 11 at International Beauty Pageant in Turkey

On May 22, 2026, at the international beauty pageant 'Miss Aura International 2026' held in Antalya, Turkey, Japanese representative Anri Hayashi successfully placed in the Top 11 among representatives from 37 countries. Miss Aura International, founded in 2006 in Antalya, is a global pageant where women from around the world compete while deepening cultural exchange and international understanding. The pageant emphasizes four elements: Beauty, Behavior, Brain, and Body, supporting women's growth and international success. The national costume, which placed in the Top 15, was a special creation by Lisa Kubota, blending traditional Japanese culture with a sustainable vision. Remade from kimonos, the costume was designed with the theme 'the moment a butterfly takes flight,' featuring butterfly motifs throughout the dress. It also incorporated vintage wedding dress materials, symbolizing the breaking of stereotypes about 'brides' and the wish for women to fly freely and beautifully through their own lives. Accessories included earrings by the Japanese brand 'SHUNGETSU' and 'Obi de Boots iki' by NEOKIMONO. Anri Hayashi stated that her goal was to 'break out of her shell,' and despite challenges with English communication, she realized through interactions with other representatives that beauty resides in the heart and one's way of life.