Q1. Are there any financial incentives/rebates for shooting in Tokyo?
Tokyo Metropolitan Government does not have any financial incentive/rebate system in place for shooting. However, there are some film commissions offering services which help the production to reduce the cost. Take a look at the Japan Film Commission's "Guide to Filming in Japan" for more information.
http://www.japanfc.org/en/pdf/jfc_handbook_e.pdf
Q2. Do you need a VISA, work permit (or both) to film in Japan?
It depends on which country or region you are from. If your country or region has a visa exemption arrangement with Japan, there is no need to obtain a visa to enter Japan and generally you will be able to stay without a visa for a period of up to 90 days. In some cases, a short-stay visa will be required in order to stay up to 90 days. However, in both cases, if you receive compensation from a Japanese entity for your work, and/or the period of stay is more than 90 days, a visa for work or long-term stays will be required. For the application process for both short-term visa or permits, please check the website of Ministry Foreign Affairs of Japan.
http://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html
As the necessary documents and procedures differ depending on the nationality and the purpose of stay of the visa applicant, please check the website of the Japanese Embassy or Consulate General of Japan nearest you for more information.
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 information about the Japanese film industry on the website of UNIJAPAN. Its JFDB database offers contact details of production companies, etc. With the same database, you can also search for information about Japanese films, cast and crew.
http://jfdb.jp/en/
Q5. Can I rent equipment such as cameras, lights and microphones, etc.?
You can find most equipment at rental companies in Tokyo. However, it is easier to rent through a Japanese production company or a coordinator if you hire one.
Q6. Do we need a permit to film on streets? We won't be blocking or stopping traffic.
When you film on a road, even if there are no traffic blockades, you need to obtain road use permits. For more information, please check “Filming on Roads”.
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 four film labs where you can get 35mm motion picture film developed in Tokyo. However, it is easier to work with them through a Japanese production company or a coordinator if you hire one.
IMAGICA Corp.
http://www.imagica.com/e/
TOKYO LABORATORY LTD.
http://www.tokyolab.co.jp/ (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.