Celebrating the Winners of the Upopoy Photo Contest 2025 in Hokkaido
In an exciting collaboration between the Upopoy (Symbolic Space for Ethnic Harmony) and Tokyo Camera Club, the results of the "Upopoy, Shiraoi, Noboribetsu Photo Contest 2025" have been unveiled. This contest ran from July 9 to November 30, 2025, inviting submissions that encapsulated the essence of Hokkaido through its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and the heartfelt moments captured by photographers. The contest's theme, "There Are Moments to Showcase in Hokkaido", resonated deeply with both the participants and the judges, leading to a collection of truly remarkable works.
The judging panel included renowned photographer Hiroki Inoue, who meticulously selected award-winning entries that highlighted the cultural landmarks and natural beauty of the Upopoy, Shiraoi Town, and Noboribetsu City. The contest attracted a total of 296 submissions, a testament to the vibrant photography community that Tokyo Camera Club nurtures.
Three main categories were featured in the contest, each celebrating different aspects of Hokkaido's charm:
1. Upopoy Section: The top prize, known as the Upopoy Award, was bestowed upon moo for their captivating image titled "The Dance of Ainu Prayer". The photograph remarkably captured the Iyomante Rimu-se, a traditional dance symbolizing the Ainu culture's reverence for nature and spirituality. The stunning portrayal of the dancers praying together harmonizes beautifully with the natural setting, showcasing the essence of the Ainu spirit.
2. Shiraoi Area Section: The Shiraoi Award was awarded to Ryō Niwayama for his breathtaking image "Morning Light on Lake Poroto". This photograph encapsulated a serene early morning moment, as the gentle rays of light illuminated the lake. Niwayama expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing his desire to share the lake's tranquil beauty with a broader audience. The photograph invites viewers to immerse themselves in the stunning landscape, with a vibrant contrast of a red canoe against the lush greenery of Hokkaido.
3. Noboribetsu Area Section: The Noboribetsu Award went to Koba for their vibrant depiction of the "Hell Festival" in Noboribetsu, capturing the excitement and energy of the region's cultural events. The image skillfully highlights the dramatic interaction between the festival's dynamic floats and the everyday backdrop of the town. Koba shared their delight in being recognized for a photo that radiates the fun and thrill of this celebrated event, hoping to convey the joyous atmosphere to viewers.
Additionally, several photographers received the Tureppon Award for their innovative and moving representations, such as AYANO's "Post-Bathing Moments" and others such as Yuki's "Autumn Smoke", each showcasing the rich narrative potential of Hokkaido's landscapes.
The Upopoy, Shiraoi, and Noboribetsu Photo Contest 2025 was a celebration of Hokkaido's picturesque scenery and cultural heritage. Participants had the opportunity not only to present their art but also to win attractive prizes, such as accommodation vouchers from prestigious local resorts, highlighting the region's tourism appeal. The contest represents the enduring partnership between the Ainu Cultural Foundation and Tokyo Camera Club and serves as an inspiring platform for photographers from all backgrounds to unite and share their perspectives on Hokkaido's beauty and culture.
To learn more about the contest and explore the winning photographs, you can visit the special website: Tokyo Camera Club Ainu Umopoy Contest 2025. Through this event, the rich photography community continues to thrive, celebrating moments in Hokkaido that leave lasting impressions on both locals and visitors alike.
The judging panel included renowned photographer Hiroki Inoue, who meticulously selected award-winning entries that highlighted the cultural landmarks and natural beauty of the Upopoy, Shiraoi Town, and Noboribetsu City. The contest attracted a total of 296 submissions, a testament to the vibrant photography community that Tokyo Camera Club nurtures.
Highlights from the Contest
Three main categories were featured in the contest, each celebrating different aspects of Hokkaido's charm:
1. Upopoy Section: The top prize, known as the Upopoy Award, was bestowed upon moo for their captivating image titled "The Dance of Ainu Prayer". The photograph remarkably captured the Iyomante Rimu-se, a traditional dance symbolizing the Ainu culture's reverence for nature and spirituality. The stunning portrayal of the dancers praying together harmonizes beautifully with the natural setting, showcasing the essence of the Ainu spirit.
2. Shiraoi Area Section: The Shiraoi Award was awarded to Ryō Niwayama for his breathtaking image "Morning Light on Lake Poroto". This photograph encapsulated a serene early morning moment, as the gentle rays of light illuminated the lake. Niwayama expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing his desire to share the lake's tranquil beauty with a broader audience. The photograph invites viewers to immerse themselves in the stunning landscape, with a vibrant contrast of a red canoe against the lush greenery of Hokkaido.
3. Noboribetsu Area Section: The Noboribetsu Award went to Koba for their vibrant depiction of the "Hell Festival" in Noboribetsu, capturing the excitement and energy of the region's cultural events. The image skillfully highlights the dramatic interaction between the festival's dynamic floats and the everyday backdrop of the town. Koba shared their delight in being recognized for a photo that radiates the fun and thrill of this celebrated event, hoping to convey the joyous atmosphere to viewers.
Additionally, several photographers received the Tureppon Award for their innovative and moving representations, such as AYANO's "Post-Bathing Moments" and others such as Yuki's "Autumn Smoke", each showcasing the rich narrative potential of Hokkaido's landscapes.
About the Contest
The Upopoy, Shiraoi, and Noboribetsu Photo Contest 2025 was a celebration of Hokkaido's picturesque scenery and cultural heritage. Participants had the opportunity not only to present their art but also to win attractive prizes, such as accommodation vouchers from prestigious local resorts, highlighting the region's tourism appeal. The contest represents the enduring partnership between the Ainu Cultural Foundation and Tokyo Camera Club and serves as an inspiring platform for photographers from all backgrounds to unite and share their perspectives on Hokkaido's beauty and culture.
To learn more about the contest and explore the winning photographs, you can visit the special website: Tokyo Camera Club Ainu Umopoy Contest 2025. Through this event, the rich photography community continues to thrive, celebrating moments in Hokkaido that leave lasting impressions on both locals and visitors alike.
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