Over the two days of November 1–2, around 170 participants from across the globe gathered in Niigata for the IAPLC2025 Award Ceremony and IAPLC FES 2025, both held in grand style.
Marking the 25th anniversary of the contest, this milestone event was filled with a festive yet heartwarming atmosphere, where the joy of achievement and the pleasure of friendship intertwined over two memorable days. Here is a look back at the highlights of the event.

The IAPLC2025 Award Ceremony, held on November 1, honored the top-ranking winners of IAPLC2025.

Among the top seven, four were able to attend in person. Each received a certificate, a TOP 100 medal, a trophy, a bouquet of flowers, and prize money.

During the after-party that followed, as part of a special program celebrating the 25th anniversary, participants who had submitted entries every single year since the very first contest were introduced. There are six such dedicated contestants in the world; two of them attended in person and were honored on stage.

Mr. Takee and Mr. Ono being recognized on stage for their achievement of 25 consecutive entries.

On November 2, IAPLC FES 2025 was held at ADA Headquarters in Niigata City. Visitors enjoyed tours of the Nature Aquarium Gallery, shopped for exclusive original goods, and participated in fun activities like the newly introduced “Nature Ring Toss.” Laughter and cheers filled the event throughout the day.

At the Nature Aquarium Gallery, 17 new planted aquariums were on display. Visitors spent their time as they wished, some photographing the tanks while others chatted with ADA SUIKEI Creators.

The weather had been a concern, but luckily the skies cleared and the outdoor activities were a great success.

At the merchandise corner, a wide variety of limited-edition items were available, including ADA keychains and ADA wind chimes.

A highlight of this year’s FES was the “Nature Ring Toss,” a festival-style game handmade by ADA staff. Guests aimed for luxurious prizes, while consolation prizes of ADA chewing gum allowed participants to “chew over” their near-misses.

An outdoor auction also added excitement. The star item was ADA Connect Wood 4, a beautifully crafted game where two players take turns stacking wood blocks, trying to align four in a row vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. The bidding was intense, reflecting the quality and craftsmanship of this ADA-exclusive creation.

This year’s event marked a major milestone—the 25th anniversary of the IAPLC. The achievements of participants who have submitted entries since the first contest were highlighted, reminding everyone of the contest’s rich history and the enduring spirit of the aquascaping community.

The event strengthened connections among participants, inspiring new ideas for future creations. Across both days, the IAPLC2025 Award Ceremony and FES 2025 celebrated the excitement of recognition, the joy of community, and the endless possibilities of planted aquarium as a global culture.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who participated, and we look forward to seeing the IAPLC continue to grow and evolve in the years ahead.