What makes Japan cool? Is it the sizzle of yakitori on a smoky grill? The artful arrangement of sushi on a wooden platter? Or maybe it’s the vibrant atmosphere of a ramen shop bustling with hungry customers?
The Cool Japan Photo Contest for Foreigners 2024 invites you to capture these enchanting moments and share the magic of Japan’s food culture through your unique lens. Hosted by the Secretariat of Intellectual Property Strategy Headquarters, Cabinet Office Japan, this contest is your chance to celebrate and showcase the charms of Japan’s culinary world!
What’s This All About?
“Cool Japan” represents the global fascination with all things Japanese. From anime to architecture, Japan has a unique allure that captivates people worldwide. But what exactly defines “cool”? To keep Japan’s charm fresh and relevant, we need your perspective as a foreigner to uncover hidden gems that even locals may overlook.
Through your photos, we hope to highlight the distinctive appeal of Japan’s food and dining culture, seen through your eyes.
Contest Details
- Theme:
Capture photos related to Japanese restaurants, food, and food culture. Bring your unique, outsider’s perspective to the table! - Submission Period:
October 16, 2024 – December 16, 2024 - Eligibility:
The contest is open to all foreigners with a love for Japan. - How to Submit:
Use Instagram to enter!- Follow the official Cool Japan account @CJPF_JP.
- Add a caption with details about the photo (location, date, appeal points, etc.) in any language.
- Include the hashtag #cooljapanphoto2024. If you’re a JET Program participant or alumni, add #JET too!
- Tag @CJPF_JP and upload your masterpiece.
Note: Each person can submit up to two entries but only one photo per submission.
- Follow the official Cool Japan account @CJPF_JP.
What’s in It for You?
Winners will be announced in February 2025 (exact date TBD). The judging panel includes experts who deeply appreciate Japan’s charm, such as Cool Japan Producers. Winning entries will be:
- Featured on the Cool Japan website.
- Highlighted on Cool Japan’s official social media channels with credits to your Instagram account, country, photo title, and your comments.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Your photos should be original and taken by you.
- AI-generated images and heavy editing are not allowed (but slight adjustments for brightness or cropping are fine).
- Respect portrait and copyright rights—get permission if necessary!
- Keep following @CJPF_JP until winners are announced.
Why Enter?
This contest isn’t just about stunning photos—it’s about celebrating the unfiltered, authentic side of Japan’s food culture through your unique perspective. Whether you’re a JET alumni reminiscing about your favorite local ramen shop or a traveler who fell in love with Japan’s izakayas, your story matters.
So, grab your camera, explore Japan’s culinary delights, and start snapping! Your photo could become part of the global showcase that defines what’s truly “Cool Japan.”
Ready to participate? Let’s make Japan’s food culture shine brighter than ever!
Follow @CJPF_JP, start tagging #cooljapanphoto2024, and let the world see Japan through your eyes. 🍣📸✨
Access the official website and instructions here
