TIEC Photo Contest 2024

Tokyo International Exchange Center (TIEC) has held the "Photo Contest" for international students and Japanese students who live in TIEC, and staffs of Tokyo Academic Park*.

*Tokyo Academic Park is a consortium of Tokyo International Exchange Center (TIEC), National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) and National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) Tokyo Waterfront.

"My Special Place"

Friday, October 25th, 2024 - Sunday, November 10th, 2024
(Result of photo contest announced on December 2th, 2024)

109 Photos that was taken by residents and staffs of Tokyo Academic Park.

General Voting: 569

This photo shows the beauty of Fuji Motosuko Resort during the shibazakura season, where bright pink flowers cover the ground. Mount Fuji stands tall in the background, making a stunning view with the blue sky. This place became one of my special place because it captures the essence of Japan's natural beauty. The combination of Mount Fuji as a symbol of Japan, and the vibrant pink shibazakura flowers represent the breathtaking landscapes that make living in this country so memorable. Visiting this place was a moment of peace and reflection, connecting with the nature and culture that have shaped my experience in Japan.

We enjoy KITE flying.

Everyday, in the world of the strangers, I survive, balancing the work and family life. Trying my best from the morning till I close my eyes, this view of serenity is my little escape from all the stresses. I call it_ the Heaven on Earth!

A reflection of Tokyo Station on a rainy day.

This photo, taken from the 13th-floor balcony of my apartment, beautifully captures the lively Tokyo Harbour at night. In the foreground, my neighboring apartment building is brightly lit, its windows glowing against the dark sky. Beyond the apartments, the harbor stretches out, with boats and ships bathed in the warm yellow lights of the port. The golden hues reflect off the calm waters, creating a sense of peaceful energy. While the city sleeps, the harbor beneath it buzzes with life, illuminated in the quiet night, blending urban vibrance with maritime serenity.

Reflection in Kumoba Pond

Mt.Fuji From the Sky is so cool.

A photo of Rainbow Bridge dyed in rainbow colors. The rainbow is beautiful because of its disparity, and I think it fits perfectly with the TIEC, which is full of diversity. Odaiba is a special place for me, who came to TIEC because I love this town.

Taken in Miho no Matsubara one afternoon when no one else is around.

Byodo-in is a special place believed to have been inherited from the past to the present and passed on to the future. Walking in this area for almost two hours last year made me feel calm and accepted. Meeting with the officer, tourists, locals and several residents made me understand that no matter where you come from, what religion you are, and what your background and purpose are for coming to that place, we all have to respect each other and pass on the good values ​​of our ancestors to the next generation. In this place, in 2023, I hope to live in Japan for more than just a tourist visit; I hope to learn about the history and values ​​of Japanese life that I can apply to my life and share with others. God answered my prayer, and here I am at TIEC, writing this now with a temporary residence permit as a student.

Tsukuba city has been my second home since I arrived to Japan. This is a small tribute showing one of the most representative landmarks of the city, a H-II rocket located at the Tsukuba Expo center under some star trails around the North Star (Polaris).

Every morning, I take a walk in Odaiba to enjoy the view of Tokyo Bay and the Rainbow Bridge. There’re smart crows that always join me, as if we’re sharing the moment together. We sit and look at the view side by side. So I decided to take a picture of my morning friend.

The atmosphere speaks of peace and tranquility, a place where one can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find solace in the beauty of nature.