Thinking of Filming in Japan? Here’s What You Should Know…

As a freelance video producer and local fixer based in Tokyo, I’ve been lucky enough to work alongside an array of domestic and international clients over the years. From TV, film and brand campaigns, I’ve been involved in a wide spectrum of commercial video production which has given me an invaluable insight into the complexities of the industry and particularly the obstacles that international production agencies and crew members alike face when filming in Japan.

Post-pandemic Japan has seen a record-breaking influx of international tourism over the last year, and likewise the international appetite for commercial, film and social media video content here has skyrocketed, after almost three years of closed borders. YouTubers, streamers and big-shot directors have been entering the country in droves and from my experience alone have been perplexed at how seemingly impossible it can be to film anything from temples and shrines to parks and open spaces. “No filming allowed” signs welcome tourists and others in many of Japans famous tourist hotspots, which can be a frustrating culture shock for crew members who have travelled half-way across the world to film the ancient residential streets of Kyoto or famous temples such as Kinkakuji (Golden Temple).

So, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the do’s and infamous don’ts of filming in Japan.

DON’T film children’s faces. Filming people without permission is highly frowned upon in Japan and even more so for minors. There’s several sordid reasons as to why rules protecting children in this way have been introduced so it’s always best to avoid it if you don’t have the parents’ consent. Privacy is a constitutional right in Japan so generally speaking filming someone without permission or filming them secretly can lead to a lawsuit if they feel so inclined.

DO plan well in advance for location permission. As mentioned above, many historic landmarks in Japan have restrictions on filming for commercial or other purposes. Always check the website or local authority’s page to apply in advance for permission or to confirm what can and cannot be filmed. For example, some temples and ancient sites will allow filming of certain buildings but not others. Depending on the demand, it can take a week or more for commercial filming permission to be granted so it’s always best to start the process as early as possible.

DON’T ask people to move or cause any trouble if filming on streets or public spaces. Outside of commercial filming (which needs prior written permission) it is permitted to film for YouTube or general social media purposes in most places in Japan so long as you don’t cause any problems for those around you. If you’re being excessively loud, creating a barrier for others not to enter your filming space or just generally being a nuisance, police have full right to move you along.

DO hire an interpreter or local fixer to make your life easier. Contrary to popular belief, very little English is spoken in Japan and coordinating shoots locally can usually only be done in Japanese. Whether it’s permission forms for filming, renting a car, or interviewing local people, many international crews are instantly humbled by the fact that Japan isn’t as English-friendly as they originally thought.

DON’T bring tons of equipment. For similar reasons as point three, it’s always best to film as light as possible in Japan and especially the busy streets of Tokyo. Don’t bring lighting or heavy cameras that could potentially harm someone unless you’re prepared to pay their medical bills and take full responsibility for any injury caused. Also, because many places require prior permission for commercial filming, crew with more than basic equipment will be treated as though they’re filming for commercial purposes and even a simple YouTube video shoot will be shut down by police or local authorities.

DO research on iconic “Japan” shots. Want to capture the snow-capped Mt Fuji? Film between November and May. Want to see Cherry Blossoms? Film between February and April. If I had a penny for every time a director thought that cherry blossoms bloom all year round in Japan, I’d be up to my eyeballs in pennies! Remember that Japan is seasonal just like other countries and the famous shot you’re looking for might be better captured in-season.

DON’T ask people to participate in your film for “exposure” (ie. for free). Japan is a cash-based society in more ways than one and Japanese people, who unlike westerners generally prefer anonymity, don’t inherently enjoy being on camera. They’ll likely duck and dodge a camera lens as soon as it’s pointed at them, a stark contrast to western countries where even live news broadcasts aren’t safe from background antics of passersby. If you want to hire a model or local person to be in your film or video, it’s common to offer a small cash payment of around 10,000 JPY for 1–2 hours work. Of course each person is different so it’s always best to clear up payment before things go ahead to avoid any awkward situations later on.

DO be aware of fake Japan. I’ve noticed an increase in AI imagery recently that raises expectations of what Japan and Tokyo actually look like. There’s no 3D holograms on buses in Shibuya Crossing. Tokyo Tower is in Tokyo and doesn’t stand next to Mt Fuji. Before getting carried away thinking you’ve found the most unique shoot location in the whole country, it’s always best to cross-check any imagery that looks too good to be true because chances are, it is fake!

For now, there we have it. A few simple (I hope!) rules and guidelines to follow when filming in Japan. There’s so much more I could discuss from how to rent studios to finding the best local crew but for now these are just the basics to get you started and ease you into the wonderful world of filming in Japan. It may seem like there’s more rules than what you’re used to but for those willing to put in a bit more effort into planing and cultural awareness, the rewards will far exceed the time cost.

If you're looking to film or shoot in Japan and would like a more detailed introduction into the landscape or are seeking a local coordinator, feel free to reach out.