#Japan #Tokyo #APAMAN #Photo Contest #Bear-kun

Celebrate Spring with the 35th Bear-kun AR Photo Contest

As the season of renewal unfolds, APAMAN Corporation is thrilled to announce the launch of the 35th Bear-kun AR Photo Contest, kicking off on April 15, 2026. Building on the popularity of the beloved character Bear-kun, this engaging initiative encourages participants to share their favorite spring culinary experiences through the lens of augmented reality (AR).

The Essence of Spring Flavors

In Japan, the arrival of spring brings with it a plethora of seasonal ingredients. From tender bamboo shoots to vibrant rapeseed flowers and sweet strawberries, the unique flavors of the season not only enrich our dining tables but also symbolize the transition of seasons. The Bear-kun AR Photo Contest aims to highlight these ingredients' beauty and inspire creativity in capturing everyday moments involving food, whether it's a homemade dish, a picnic, or a seasonal dessert enjoyed at a café.

How to Participate

Getting involved in this contest is as easy as pie! Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Scan the QR code with your smartphone to activate the official AR Bear-kun.
2. Capture a photo with Bear-kun that showcases your spring culinary discovery, using the theme “Found Spring Flavors.”
3. Share your masterpiece on Instagram or X (formerly Twitter) with the hashtag #べあ君ar体験. Make sure your account is public to qualify!

The contest runs from April 15 to April 28, 2026, providing ample time for participants to explore and document their favorite seasonal flavors.

Judging Criteria and Prizes

Submissions will be evaluated based on various criteria, including creativity, alignment with the theme, composition, vibrancy, and overall storytelling. Six winners will be celebrated, receiving the “Thank You Award” from Bear-kun. One Grand Prize winner will enjoy a delightful assortment of spring-themed sweets valued at around 3,000 yen, perfect for indulging the senses.

Additionally, five participants will receive a Starbucks eGift worth 500 yen, contributing to a special coffee experience.

The announcement of winners will occur by April 30, 2026, and selected works may be featured on Bear-kun's dedicated website on April 24.

Further Engagement and Community Building

APAMAN Corporation emphasizes connecting homes and communities through initiatives like this contest. Bear-kun serves as a delightful mascot, bridging the gap between finding real estate and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

This contest also aims at enhancing local community engagement while allowing participants to showcase their artistic expressions and share personal stories through culinary photography.

Important Notes for Participants

When participating, please ensure to prioritize safety, avoiding walking while using your phone. Images created using generative AI will not be considered for awards. Obtain consent if people appear in your submitted photos, and be mindful of copyrights and trademarks related to any brands or entities visible in your work.

Explore More with Bear-kun

For those wanting to deepen their connection with the Bear-kun experience, a dedicated website rich in interactive content and community engagement is available. This includes tutorials on how to utilize AR features and tips for capturing the perfect shot!

As we usher in the vibrancy of spring, let’s come together and celebrate the deliciousness of this season through the 35th Bear-kun AR Photo Contest. Share your culinary moments and be a part of the joy that sustains our communities. Visit the Bear-kun site for more details and join us in this exciting journey!