Experience the Vibrant Culture of Shinjuku through HOTEL GROOVE's Photo Contest

Get ready for an exciting collaboration between HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU and Shinjuku Kitamura Camera Store, as they unveil the first-ever Instagram Photo Contest. Set to kick off on November 1, 2025, this contest aims to engage participants by showcasing the unique charm of Shinjuku through their lenses.

Discover a New Perspective

The theme for this engaging photo competition is "The Charm of Shinjuku as Seen Through Your Eyes." Participants are encouraged to capture and share their experiences in this vibrant area, which encompasses everything from the lively streets of Kabukicho to memorable moments within the hotel itself. By harnessing the power of photography, the contest seeks to deepen the connection between the hotel and the local culture while fostering creative collaboration.

Whether it's an everyday scene, a breathtaking view, or a snapshot of life in and around the hotel, everyone is invited to join in and display their interpretation of Shinjuku's various attractions. A display of finalist works will take place in the hotel lobby, with an array of fabulous prizes up for grabs, including accommodation vouchers and dinner certificates.

Contest Overview

- Theme: "The Charm of Shinjuku as Seen Through Your Eyes"
- Entry Period: November 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
- Exhibition and Voting: January 2026
- Results Announcement: Early February 2026

Eight finalists will have their works exhibited in the hotel's lobby, where guests will also have the chance to cast their votes during the exhibition period. Prizes will be determined based on the selections made by both the knowledgeable staff from Shinjuku Kitamura Camera and the votes of hotel guests.

How to Enter

Participation in the contest is straightforward. Here are the steps to ensure your entry is valid:
1. Follow the official Instagram account of HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU (@hotel_groove).
2. Post a still image to your Instagram feed using the hashtag #MyShinjukuCapture (in Japanese: #私が撮る新宿). Please note that video submissions will not be accepted.
3. Ensure that your submission relates to the theme of the contest. Whether it showcases your hotel stay, the bustling streets of Shinjuku, or a fleeting moment of daily life, we welcome diverse perspectives!

Exciting Prizes Await!

Grand Prize (1 winner)

- A pair of accommodation vouchers at HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU (1 night stay with breakfast)
- Gift certificates worth 30,000 yen
- High-quality print from Shinjuku Kitamura Camera

GROOVE Award (2 winners)

- Pair of dinner vouchers for JAM17 DINING
- High-quality print from Shinjuku Kitamura Camera

Shinjuku Kitamura Camera Award (2 winners)

- Gift certificates worth 15,000 yen
- High-quality print from Shinjuku Kitamura Camera

Finalist Awards (3 winners)

- A set of original goods from THE GROOVE STORE
- High-quality print from Shinjuku Kitamura Camera

Community Engagement Initiatives

As part of its commitment to community engagement, HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU emphasizes exploring Shinjuku's inherent charm. The Instgram Photo Contest aligns with their goal of actively promoting the area in collaboration with Shinjuku Kitamura Camera, a hub for photography culture. The lobby where the selected works will be displayed features a "History Wall," offering visitors insights into Shinjuku's rich past and its contemporary culture.

Additionally, places like the 17th-floor record wall provide a gateway for guests to experience the city’s vibrant energy through music and culture. This initiative is part of HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU's overarching cultural efforts, further solidifying their position as a lifestyle hub in the Kabukicho area.

About Shinjuku Kitamura Camera

Shinjuku Kitamura Camera, which opened in July 2020, is a specialist store dedicated to photography and cameras, reflecting the rich heritage of Shinjuku as a haven for photography enthusiasts. Spanning multiple floors, the store offers a wide variety of new and used cameras, vintage Leica collections, repair services, and event spaces for photo exhibitions, catering to all types of photography enthusiasts. In June 2024, the store will enhance its offerings with the opening of a dedicated Leika Boutique.

For more information about this exciting competition and to find details about the hotel and its initiatives, visit the official websites:

Prepare to unleash your creativity and join us in celebrating Shinjuku's magnificence through this unique Instagram Photo Contest!