APAMAN Corporation, which boasts the largest number of rental housing brokerage stores in Japan, is kicking off the much-anticipated 21st Bear-kun AR Photo Contest this November 11, 2025. The company is a subsidiary of EL CAMINO REAL Corporation and is spearheaded by President Kai Yamazaki. This year’s theme, titled 'Meeting Friends,' encourages participants to capture moments with their loved ones using the whimsical and interactive Bear-kun character in augmented reality (AR).
As participants engage with Bear-kun through their smartphones, they are invited to capture photographs that symbolize the bonds they share with friends, family, and local community members. Focusing on themes of 'heart-to-heart interactions,' the contest promotes the idea of cherishing new relationships and connections. Whether it's a joyful encounter with pets or a reunion with friends at an event, the entries should vividly depict heartfelt stories that connect people.
Contest Overview
The contest officially opens on November 11 at 10:00 AM and runs until November 17 at 9:30 AM. Here’s how to participate:
1. Scan the QR code with your smartphone to launch the official AR Bear-kun. No app required—simply access it through the dedicated website.
2. Take photos with the AR Bear-kun alongside your friends or loved ones.
3. Upload your creations on Instagram or X (formerly Twitter) using the hashtag
#べあ君ar体験. Make sure your account is public when posting, as private accounts will be disqualified.
Evaluation Criteria
Submissions will be judged based on their relevance to the contest theme, creativity, composition, color usage, storytelling quality, and overall expression of brightness, safety, and fun.
Prizes
Three winners will receive special prizes, including:
- - The Grand Prize for one outstanding entry: a collection of seasonal snacks worth 3,000 yen, carefully selected by Bear-kun.
- - Two additional winners will receive 500 yen Starbucks eGift cards each.
Winners will be announced via direct message to their social media accounts by November 18 at 6:00 PM. Winning entries will also be displayed on the dedicated Bear-kun website by this date.
APAMAN is committed to the theme of 'Connecting Communities through Housing' through their beloved character Bear-kun. This AR photo contest goes beyond just housing searches; it aims to share the joys of living and local attractions, fostering connections across the nation.
Participants are encouraged to safely engage with their surroundings while taking photos and ensure they have consent from any individuals featured in their images. Remember, third-party logos and trademarks should not be included, considering both portrait and copyright rights.
Embrace the AR Experience with Bear-kun
The AR Bear-kun is designed to make virtual encounters easy and accessible—just scan the QR code or visit the website with your smartphone to interact with Bear-kun whenever and wherever you wish.
Aiming for deeper connections through fun and memorable experiences, APAMAN and Bear-kun hope to enhance community engagement while fostering a spirit of enjoyment in daily life. Follow APAMAN on their various social media platforms to stay updated on future contests and community-oriented activities. To learn more and get involved, check out the Bear-kun feature site.