Shimatsu no Kokoro
Have you ever heard the term ‘Shimatsu no Kokoro’? It refers to a spirit that has been passed down in Kyoto for generations—an ethos of ingenuity, mindfulness, and cherishing all things and experiences.
At Daimaru Kyoto Store, we value ‘Shimatsu no Kokoro’ as environmental action that is not about mere frugality or self-restraint, but about engaging in eco-friendly activities with a sense of enjoyment.
This contest invites you to express your own interpretation of ‘Shimatsu no Kokoro’!
For example…
- Your personally decorated reusable bottle that you use every day
- A favorite eco-bag you discovered while traveling
Photographs that capture a lifestyle that is sustainable simply because you love it.
Or,
- Children playing in a park where litter is present
- A homemaker contemplating between environmentally conscious and less conscious choices
We also welcome photographs that inspire or prompt awareness of environmental action.
Selected works that beautifully capture such actions will be exhibited as posters inside Daimaru Kyoto Store. We encourage you to draw inspiration from previous works and magazines, and express your own vision of ‘Shimatsu no Kokoro’.
Inspiration Works

Image by fujikko
fujikko
“Both he and I have our own bottles”
📷 SONY | ILCE-7M3
cizucu Editorial Team
This photograph captures a scene of a child’s backpack with a reusable bottle tucked inside. Outings with family become even more enjoyable when everyone brings their favorite drink in their own bottle. This is a perfect example of ‘Shimatsu no Kokoro’ that families can easily practice together. Recently, there are also services that allow you to create custom-designed bottles.

Image by samuge
samuge
cizucu Editorial Team
Participating in flea markets is also an action that embodies ‘Shimatsu no Kokoro’. In fact, flea markets are often held monthly at local shrines. Besides ceramics and plants, you might even find old photographs taken by someone else. Submitting a photo of a unique find from a flea market could be a great idea.

Image by Shimakou
Shimakou
cizucu Editorial Team
Or, simply keeping a favorite eco-bag in your bag for small purchases is also an act of ‘Shimatsu no Kokoro’. When traveling, you often see local T-shirts at souvenir shops, but if you look closely, you’ll also find eco-bags lined up. Just having one lifts your spirits and is good for the environment—a wonderful ‘Shimatsu no Kokoro’ action!
What do you think?
While the term “environmental action” can sound daunting, shifting your perspective just a little can make sustainability enjoyable. We look forward to seeing a variety of photographs that capture your own ‘Shimatsu no Kokoro’.
Contest Information
Exhibition Period
October 4, 2023 (Wed) ~ November 30, 2023 (Thu)
Announcement of Selected Artists
Scheduled for January 17, 2023 (Wed)
Poster Exhibition Period
Scheduled for late March to around April 2024
Awards & Rewards
- Poster exhibition within Daimaru Kyoto Store
- Premium license purchase of selected works
How to Submit
- Select the ‘Shimatsu no Kokoro’ contest
- Tap “Agree to the submission guidelines and post”
- Select your content and submit your work

