Q1. Are there any financial incentives/rebates for shooting in Tokyo?
Tokyo Metropolitan Government is offering grants for location scouting and shooting of movies and TV dramas to be released overseas in Tokyo. Pleace check the following link for more information.
https://www.locationbox.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/english/fund/
Q2. Do you need a VISA, work permit (or both) to film in Japan?
We can not give any information of the VISA, work permits, etc.
Please contact the Japanese immigration sector directly to get the information.
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/status/entertainer.html?hl=en
Q3. Does your country recognize an International Carnet for shipping?
Japan is a member of the ATA Carnet system.
International Chamber of Commerce (ICC):
http://www.iccwbo.org/chamber-services/trade-facilitation/ata-carnets/
If your country is not a member of the Carnet, go to the Japan Customs website to find temporary admission procedures.
http://www.customs.go.jp/english/summary/temporary.htm
Q4. Where can I find information about Japanese production companies?
You can find useful information about the Japanese film industy at the JFDB database on UNIJAPAN website.
It offers contact details of production companies. Besides, you can also check the Japanese films, cast and crew in the page.
http://jfdb.jp/en/
Q5. Can I rent equipment such as cameras, lights and microphones, etc.?
You can rent most of the filming equipment from the rental companies directly in Tokyo. But it can be easier to ask your Japanese production companies or coordinators if you have.
Q6. Do we need a permit to film on streets? We won't be blocking or stopping traffic.
When you are going to film on a road, and even no traffic blockades, you need to obtain road use permits from the police department in regions depending on the filming projects. For more information, please check the page “Filming on Roads” below.
https://www.locationbox.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/english/shooting/public.html
Q7. This is not a paid shoot, it is for my own use. Do I need permission or need to pay for the shoot?
It depends on the scale of the shoot and other conditions. Please let us know the details of your shoot using the inquiry form. We will give you advice.
Q8. What is the local VAT rate?
There is 10% value added tax (consumption tax) in Japan as of 2020.
Q9. Is there a film lab in-country?
There are some film labs where you can get 35mm motion picture film developed in Tokyo like followings. However, it is easier to work with them through a Japanese production company or coordinator if you hire one.
IMAGICA Lab. Inc.
https://www.imagicalab.co.jp/e/
TOKYO LABORATORY LTD.
https://www.tokyolab.co.jp/en/(Japanese Only)
Toei Labo Tech Co., Ltd.
http://www.toeilab.co.jp/ (Japanese Only)
YOKOCINE D.I.A. INC.
http://www.yokocine.com/ (Japanese Only)
Q10. What unions are present in Tokyo, and who do they cover?
There are professional associations organized by function in an effort to improve their members' social position and professional skills. However, unions in Japan area generally not as strong as in the United States or other countries. In Japan, crew rates will be negotiated with the producer.