Filming in Japan

Japan is an archipelago of striking contrasts, where neon-lit metropolises meet tranquil temples and subtropical islands, offering filmmakers a visually diverse canvas. The Japan Film Commission (JFC) coordinates over 120 regional film commissions, streamlining location referrals and access to local authorities, while the national location incentive reimburses up to 50% of qualifying in-country spend for large-scale productions meeting threshold conditions. Supported by experienced bilingual crews, top-tier equipment suppliers, and reliable transport infrastructure, Japan stands as a premier destination for projects ranging from blockbuster features to documentaries and branded content.

Silhouette of a traditional multi-story pagoda with a pointed finial, set against a colorful sunset sky with orange, pink, and purple hues, and birds flying nearby.
Interior of a crowded subway train with seated passengers looking at their phones or reading, viewed from an open door.
A busy street scene at night in an Asian city, decorated with pink paper lanterns and various signs in Japanese and English, with people walking and dining.

Stories set in Japan span cyberpunk epics to period dramas, with iconic urban backdrops like Shibuya’s scramble crossing, Akihabara’s neon arcades, and the illuminated skyline of Tokyo Bay, alongside historic settings such as Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kanazawa’s preserved samurai districts, and Nara’s ancient temples. Majestic landscapes from Mount Fuji to the Japanese Alps frame road movies and contemplative documentaries, while Hokkaido’s snow festivals, Okinawa’s coral reefs, and Kyushu’s volcanic peaks expand the spectrum from winter wonderlands to tropical paradises and untamed frontiers. Across commercials, features, and documentaries, Japan offers natural, urban, and cultural environments that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Tokyo Tower illuminated with red lights during sunset, surrounded by city buildings and street activity
A view of tree branches with white flowers against a clear blue sky.
Nighttime city street filled with illuminated signs and billboards in Japanese, with a crowd of people crossing the street.

Working with BARAMON Creative Agency maximizes these advantages, as our bilingual producers and fixers coordinate directly with the JFC network to secure permits, typically processed within two weeks, and identify applicable incentives. We recruit directors, writers, technicians, and VFX teams; manage customs, visas, and translations; and ensure respectful engagement with local communities. With offices in Paris and Tokyo, we bridge cultural differences and streamline logistics, allowing crews to focus entirely on storytelling.