Ahead of the 53rd Miss International World Pageant, a press presentation to introduce each country's winner was held on December 9th at the Shinagawa Prince Hotel in Takanawa, Tokyo.
The 66 candidates, who arrived in Japan last week, appeared in costumes symbolizing their respective countries. Elements of national dress were incorporated, such as flamenco costumes for Spain, ao dai for Vietnam, and traditional embroidery for Hungary. Dresses also featured flag motifs, such as the British Union Jack and Singapore's crescent moon. Yukiko Takahashi, representing Japan, showed off her legs in a kimono-inspired costume made with tsutsugaki, a traditional fabric used since the Edo period. "It was fun to see the national costumes of each country. I want to cherish my individuality, have fun, and aim to be the best in the world," she said.
Following the swimsuit competition, the press voted to select Miss Photogenic, which went to Elma Segzdaviciute of Lithuania. Seddavishut, who visited Japan for the third time, said, "I'm happy to have won this award in my beloved Japan. I'm glad I got to visit Hakone for the first time. I'd also like to visit Mount Fuji someday."
In addition, this year's World Championships will be held in collaboration with the "Cool Japan Policy" promoted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Misses from each country will visit famous places and tourist destinations near Tokyo and share with the world via Facebook and other platforms what they consider to be "cool, cute, and delicious." After enjoying shopping at Daikanyama T-Site, Ginza, and Odaiba last weekend, the Misses will participate in programs to learn more about Japan, including a tour of the Imperial Palace and traditional cultural experiences such as flower arranging and tea ceremony, leading up to the World Championships.
The World Championships finals will be held at the Shinagawa Prince Hotel's Annex Tower Prince Hall from 5:30 PM on the 17th. Miss International 2008 Alejandra Andreu of Spain, who will be a judge, commented, "There are so many fantastic candidates, it looks like it will be a fierce competition. I was in the same position as these women a few years ago, so I am watching with excitement."
