The Cinema Capital: The Professionals behind the Samurai Filming Industry

Camera crews are common sights in Kyoto's historic streets and peaceful rural areas. The first film screening in Japan was held here in 1897, and Kyoto became the cradle of the Japanese movie industry, giving birth to masterpieces. Studios attracted expert craftsmen who created the sword fighting scenes, wigs and props needed to give samurai dramas authenticity. Discover a facet of the ancient capital at Uzumasa, the heart of the local film industry, where culture and history take center stage.