Do I need a permit to film in Japan?

Most professional productions require permits when filming in public areas, affecting traffic, or operating drones. Requirements are typically managed at the municipal level.

Are international crews allowed to work locally?

International crews may operate in collaboration with local production partners who facilitate permitting and regulatory compliance.

Can drone filming be approved?

Drone operations require advance authorization under national aviation regulations. Urban airspace may require additional permissions.

Are incentives available for productions?

Incentives may be offered at regional or prefectural levels. Eligibility criteria and application processes vary depending on location and project scope.

Is filming in major cities complex?

Urban filming requires structured planning and adherence to municipal guidelines. With detailed preparation, projects can operate efficiently within regulatory frameworks.

Japan

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in Japan, facilitating international productions of every scale with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, full range of logistic support and connecting production teams with local talent and experienced crew.

Ultimate Filming Guide for Japan

Capital

Tokyo

Main Cities

Kyoto, Osaka, Sapporo

Local Languages

Japanese

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY) ¥

Climate

Varied

General Visa Requirements:

A tourist visa is typically necessary for international crews.

Required Documents:

Valid passport – at least 6 months’ validity from date of entry.
Recent passport-sized photo – color, taken within the last 6 months, compliant with standards.
Film shooting schedule – detailed plan of filming days.
Location list – addresses and details of each filming site.
Letter of introduction – issued by the production company, confirming role, purpose, and project details.
Proof of financial means – recent bank statement or sponsorship letter.
Health insurance documents – coverage details (if required by the host country/authority).

Visa Application Process:

Application Link: Japan Visa Information

Processing Time:

3-5 working days

Cost:

USD $90 - $180

Accreditation Requirements:

No specific accreditation is mandated.

Required Documents:

No specific accreditation is mandated.

Processing Time:

No specific accreditation is mandated.

Cost:

No specific accreditation is mandated.

Issuing Organization:

Prefectural Governments: Issue permits for filming in specific prefectures (e.g., Tokyo, Osaka).
Municipal Governments: Issue permits for filming in specific cities or towns (e.g., Tokyo Metropolitan Government).
Local Film Commissions: Assist with permitting, location scouting, and logistics (e.g., Tokyo Film Commission, Osaka Film Commission).

Required Documents:

A proposal outlining the filming project.
An area map or diagram indicating filming locations.
A completed application form from the police station.

Processing Time:

Apply at least 2-4 weeks before filming. Allow 1-2 weeks for processing.

Cost:

Approximately ¥2,100 per location.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

Location scouting – Identify potential locations with a local film fixer or location manager.
Location visits – Conduct site visits to confirm feasibility.
Location agreements – Negotiate terms with property owners/managers.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

Location type – residential, commercial, industrial, etc.
Location size and complexity – larger or unique spaces may increase costs.
Location availability and demand – high-demand areas often charge more.
Shooting duration and schedule – longer shoots or night shoots can add costs.
Region – Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and other cities have different pricing levels.

Drone Regulations:

Permission required from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism (MLIT).
Drones must weigh less than 200g or comply with specific safety standards.
Flight altitude limit: 150m (492ft).
No flying over populated areas, schools, hospitals, or sensitive facilities.
Must respect privacy and intellectual property rights.

Drone Importation Regulations:

Permission required from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).
Compliance with Japanese safety standards and regulations.
Customs clearance and declaration required.

Required Documentation – Local Drone Application

Application form (prescribed by MLIT or regional CAB)
Identity verification (passport, driver’s license, etc.)
Proof of address (utility bill, residence certificate, etc.)
Drone specification documents (manufacturer’s certificate, etc.)
Drone registration certificate (if applicable)
Proof of drone insurance
Drone operation manual

Permit Issuance:

Civil Aviation Bureau (CAB) issues the permits.

Timing:

5–10 working days

Cost:

Expect costs to start around ¥20,000, depending on specifics.

Carnet Status:

Yes, Japan is a Carnet country.

General Process – Carnet Country

Obtain Carnet – Apply through your national chamber of commerce or industry (e.g., ICC, JCCI).
Prepare Documents – Commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin.
Declare Goods – File a temporary importation declaration.
Customs Clearance – Present Carnet and supporting documents to Japan Customs.
Use Goods – Utilize goods for the intended purpose (e.g., filming).
Re-Export – Depart with the goods, obtain a customs exit stamp.
Carnet Validation – Return Carnet to the issuing authority.

Required Documents:

Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
Certificate of Origin
Customs Declaration (Form C-4)
Carnet (ATA/TIR/CPD)
Import License
Export License
Certificate of Compliance (e.g., JIS, PSE)
Safety Certification (e.g., EMC, RF)

Issuing Organization:

Japan Customs handles all customs clearance.

Timing:

2–4 hours

Cost:

No fee

General Overview:

Low crime rates compared to many countries.
Well-organized infrastructure, ensuring efficient transportation and logistics.
A strong emphasis on order, respect, and cultural traditions, which film crews should be mindful of.

Security Requirements:

Personal security – Low risk, but stay alert to pickpocketing.
Set security – Employ on-set security guards and access control for larger productions.
Equipment security – Use secure storage and monitoring systems for valuable gear.
Location security – Conduct site inspections to identify potential risks.
Travel security – Pre-plan safe transportation routes and schedules.

Rebates/Incentives:

General Overview

Japan offers multiple film incentive programs to support international productions, including reality TV, documentaries, films, and dramas. These programs are managed by both national and local government bodies, with support for production costs, logistics, and location services.

National and Regional Incentive Programs

Location Production Incentive

Organizer / Body: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) + Visual Industry Promotion Organization (VIPO) / Japan Film Commission

Description:
Provides a 50% cash rebate on expenses incurred in Japan for international film and TV productions, covering shooting and post-production costs.

Key Conditions:

Requires a Japanese production partner.
Minimum spending thresholds apply.
Only specific cost categories are eligible.
(Ref: Alo Japan, All About Japan, Screen Global Production)

Local Support by Film Commissions

Organizer / Body: Japan Film Commission and various regional film commissions
Description:
Offers assistance such as location scouting, public facility fee waivers, and local coordination.

Key Conditions:

Requires cooperation with local governments.
Permits and scheduling must be coordinated through local film offices.
(Ref: japanfc.org)

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Subsidy Program for Foreign Productions

Organizer / Body: Tokyo Metropolitan Government + Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau (Tokyo Location Box)
Description:
Provides financial assistance for filming or location scouting in Tokyo for projects intended for international release.

Key Conditions:

Varies by municipal regulation.
Eligibility depends on corporate registration and production type.
(Ref: locationbox.metro.tokyo.lg.jp)

Kagoshima City Film Shooting Support Program

Organizer / Body: Kagoshima City Government
Purpose:
Encourages film and TV productions to shoot in Kagoshima City to boost local tourism and promote the region.

Support Details:

Type: Subsidy / Grant
Rate: Up to 50% of eligible expenses
Maximum: ¥3,000,000 per production

Eligibility:

Feature films with nationwide release in 30+ cinemas
TV dramas of at least 60 minutes for nationwide broadcast
Productions for major streaming platforms
Must film within Kagoshima City and contribute to tourism promotion
Requires 300+ overnight stays by production crew in Kagoshima City

Eligible Expenses Include:

Accommodation and facility rentals
Equipment and vehicle hire (e.g., cameras, lighting)
Set construction, art, and design
Security, catering (non-alcoholic), and sanitation costs
(Ref: Kagoshima City Official Website)