Apaman Shop Launches 27th Bear-kun AR Photo Contest for 2026

Apaman Shop Kicks Off the 27th Bear-kun AR Photo Contest for 2026

Apaman Co., based in Chuo City, Tokyo, and renowned for its top position in rental housing brokerage, announces the start of the "27th Bear-kun AR Photo Contest." This participatory social media event invites users to capture and share photos featuring Bey-kun, the beloved character of Apaman Shop, beginning on January 6, 2026.

The contest harnesses the official augmented reality (AR) of Bear-kun, providing an easy and entertaining way to celebrate the spirit of the new year. Participants will take photographs that embody the unique atmosphere of the season and the small moments that signify new beginnings in their daily lives. This year's theme has been designed to ensure wide participation, fantastic visuals, and promotional impact.

Contest Overview

Participants are encouraged to snap photos with Bear-kun against the backdrop of scenes that evoke the new year's essence. Whether it's ingredients for seven-herb rice porridge or seasonal vegetables arranged beautifully, the contest emphasizes capturing those “beginning scenes” with Bear-kun. Participants can also incorporate traditional Japanese New Year items such as karuta cards, seasonal decorations, and local events, transforming daily life and regional backdrops into perfect photo opportunities.

How to Participate

1. Use your smartphone to scan the QR code and launch the official AR Bear-kun experience (no app required; access via dedicated site).
2. Take photos of Bear-kun with your chosen beginning scenes.
3. Post your entry on Instagram or X (formerly Twitter) using the hashtag "#Bear-kunARExperience" and ensure your profile is public for your submission to be valid.

Judging Criteria

Entries will be evaluated based on relevance to the theme, creativity, composition, color harmony, and storytelling elements. The expressiveness, safety, and joy within the photos will also be considered.

Prizes

Three winners will receive the “Thank You from Bear-kun” award:

- Grand Prize: A special Bear-kun cushion made of soft polyester, perfect for adding a cozy touch to any room (approximately 300x300mm).
- Two Runner-Up Prizes: Starbucks eGift worth 500 yen, which can be redeemed by tapping the received URL at checkout.

Winner Announcement: Successful participants will be contacted via DM by January 7, 2026.

Showcasing Entries: Winning artworks will be published on the dedicated Bear-kun site by January 30, 2026.

Engage with Bear-kun Online

Apaman Co. encourages everyone to connect with the community and share stories about regional charm and the joys of everyday life, aiming to transcend the conventional housing search experience through fun and engaging social media interactions.

To maintain safety, please avoid using smartphones while walking or capturing images on busy streets. Seek consent from individuals before including them in your photos. Respect privacy laws and remain cautious of including other individuals or logos in your submissions.

This contest exemplifies Apaman Co.'s commitment to using Bear-kun as a medium for connecting people and fostering community spirit, a delightful journey cherished by both young and old across Japan.

For more details, follow Bear-kun’s special site and various social media accounts:

Join us in celebrating the magic of new beginnings with Bear-kun!