Why Film in Japan?
Japan offers an extraordinary variety of filming locations—from ancient temples and traditional gardens to ultramodern cityscapes, snow-capped mountains, and tropical islands. Iconic Tokyo locations include Shibuya Crossing and the neon districts of Shinjuku, among the most sought-after filming sites in the world.
A rich mix of geography, culture, and infrastructure makes Japan one of the industry's most versatile destinations. Government incentives and advanced facilities support productions of every scale.
Historical Sites
UNESCO sites including Himeji Castle, Kyoto temples, Hiroshima Peace Memorial, and ancient shrines suit prestige productions.
Island Paradise
Pacific coastlines, Okinawa islands, and seaside towns provide waterfronts and dramatic seascapes for luxury shoots.
Modern Cities
Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, and Fukuoka offer cutting-edge architecture and vibrant neon-lit street life.
Diverse Landscapes
Japanese Alps, Mount Fuji, and cherry blossom gardens deliver multiple looks within easy reach of world-class transport.
Incentives and Rebates for Filmmakers
Japan offers one of Asia's most competitive film incentive programs through the METI/VIPO Location Incentive Program. A 50% cash rebate on production costs makes Japan increasingly attractive for international productions.
Regional film commissions across Japan offer additional location support, permit assistance, and coordination for productions showcasing their areas.
METI/VIPO Location Incentive Program
Japan's flagship incentive offers a 50% cash rebate on production and post-production costs incurred in Japan. Administered by METI through VIPO, the program has a ¥1 billion (~$6.6M) cap per project and accepts applications in four rounds annually.
Eligibility and Application Process
Productions must spend ¥500M+ (~$3.3M) in Japan, or have ¥1B+ total budget with ¥200M+ Japan spend. Only Japanese companies can apply; we serve as your designated local partner to facilitate applications.
Regional Film Commission Support
Japan's 47 prefectures and major cities including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Okinawa have dedicated film offices offering location access, permit coordination, and production support.
Film Permits in Japan
Japan has a structured permit framework. We handle city, prefectural, and national permissions so your production stays on track, including approvals from site managers for parks, temples, and cultural properties.
Standard Permits (1-2 weeks)
Small crews with handheld gear in public spaces.
Location Permits (2-3 weeks)
Exclusive use, tracks, larger lighting setups, and equipment placement.
Complex Permits (3-4 weeks)
Road closures, traffic control, heritage sites, and government coordination.
Key Permit Requirements
- Production liability insurance (minimum $1M coverage)
- Detailed shooting schedule and location list
- Equipment list and crew size details
- Municipal and heritage site approvals
- Property owner permissions for private locations
- Environmental impact assessment for sensitive areas
Best Time to Film in Japan
Japan features four distinct seasons with dramatically different looks. Cherry blossoms in spring, lush summers, stunning autumn foliage, and snowy winters offer year-round visual variety.
Spring (Mar-May)
- Cherry blossom season
- Perfect temperatures (15-22°C)
- Golden Week holidays
- Ideal for outdoor shoots
- Most popular filming season
Summer (Jun-Aug)
- Long daylight hours
- Rainy season (June)
- Festival season
- Beach and water filming
- Hot and humid (25-35°C)
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
- Stunning fall foliage
- Golden light quality
- Comfortable temperatures
- Less crowded
- Stable weather
Winter (Dec-Feb)
- Crisp winter light
- Snow in mountains
- Clear skies in Tokyo
- Budget-friendly
- Illumination events
Visa Requirements for Film Crews
Japan offers visa-free entry for many countries, but commercial film work typically requires proper visa status. We plan applications early to keep approvals on time.
Visa-Exempt Countries
68 countries enjoy visa-free entry for 90 days including USA, UK, EU, Australia. Work requires proper visa status.
Working Visa Required
Commercial productions typically require an Entertainer or Business visa. We handle applications and documentation.
Certificate of Eligibility
For extended shoots, we sponsor and process COE applications to streamline visa approval.
We Handle Your Paperwork
- Official invitation letters for visa applications
- Certificate of Eligibility sponsorship
- Immigration liaison and documentation
- Equipment customs clearance (ATA Carnet)
- Travel insurance and health requirements
Equipment & Technical Support
Japan offers professional filming equipment and technical support matching international standards, with world-class studio facilities such as Toho Studios and Nikkatsu Studios.
Advanced technology covers high-quality footage and VFX, while ATA Carnet procedures simplify temporary import of professional gear. We guide equipment choices and customs to keep production smooth.
Camera Equipment
- ARRI and RED camera systems
- Complete lens packages
- Steadicam and gimbal systems
- Drone equipment with operators
- Underwater filming gear
Lighting & Grip
- HMI and LED lighting
- Generator trucks
- Grip trucks fully equipped
- Specialized rigging
- Cherry pickers and lifts
Post Production
- Edit suites with latest software
- Color grading facilities
- Sound mixing studios
- VFX and animation services
- DCP creation for cinema
Japan is an ATA Carnet country, allowing temporary import of professional equipment. We handle customs procedures for bringing your own gear.
Japan Filming Hub - Featured Locations
Explore Japan's most cinematic destinations with local expertise. Locations can double for other Asian countries or historical periods, supported by experienced Japanese crews and film commissions.
Tokyo Filming Services
Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, and neon-lit streets alongside modern districts like Shinjuku for dynamic urban looks.
- Iconic landmarks including Tokyo Tower and Senso-ji Temple
- Futuristic cityscapes and glass skyscrapers
- Traditional neighborhoods like Asakusa
- Fashion and technology hotspots
- World-class studios for turnkey productions
Kyoto Production
Ancient temples, geisha districts, and traditional machiya townhouses deliver timeless Japanese aesthetics for period and contemporary content.
- 2,000+ temples and shrines
- Gion geisha district
- Traditional gardens and bamboo groves
- Historic Nijo Castle
- Experienced crews for cultural productions
Osaka Filming
Japan's kitchen blends vibrant nightlife with historic castles, diverse communities, and dynamic street scenes.
- Dotonbori neon district
- Osaka Castle and grounds
- Universal Studios Japan
- Multicultural street scenes
- Gateway to Kansai region permits
Modern cityscape, Hakata culture, and gateway to Kyushu island
Okinawa & Islands
Tropical beaches, unique culture, and crystal-clear waters
Japanese Alps
Snow-capped peaks, hot spring resorts, and four-season adventure
Hiroshima & Miyajima
Peace memorials, floating torii gates, and maritime heritage
Planning a multi-location production across Japan?
Ready to Film in Japan?
From Tokyo's neon streets to Kyoto's ancient temples, we make filming in Japan simple, efficient, and unforgettable. Tell us about your project.