Japan’s rich culture, history, and unique way of life have inspired filmmakers around the world, resulting in countless movies that capture the beauty and complexity of Japanese society. Watching some of these films before visiting Japan will give you insights into its traditions, modern-day life, and unique aesthetic. Here are 20 movies to check out before your journey.
1. Lost in Translation (2003)
Director: Sofia Coppola
An introspective exploration of Tokyo through the eyes of two foreigners, Lost in Translation offers a glimpse into the city’s neon-lit nightlife, traditional temples, and bustling urban landscapes. This film captures the feeling of being both isolated and enchanted in a foreign land.
2. Spirited Away (2001)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
This animated masterpiece by Studio Ghibli introduces Japanese folklore, mythology, and the importance of respect for nature. The film’s setting, inspired by traditional Japanese bathhouses, gives viewers a magical view of Japan’s mystical side.
3. Your Name (2016)
Director: Makoto Shinkai
A romantic fantasy that bridges rural and urban Japan, Your Name beautifully depicts cityscapes of Tokyo and scenic countryside vistas. It’s a heartwarming story that showcases the contrast and connection between Japan’s bustling city life and its serene villages.
4. Tokyo Story (1953)
Director: Yasujirō Ozu
A classic of Japanese cinema, Tokyo Story portrays generational and societal shifts in postwar Japan. The film provides insights into Japanese family dynamics and the cultural emphasis on respect for elders.
5. Seven Samurai (1954)
Director: Akira Kurosawa
This epic samurai film is essential viewing for anyone interested in Japanese history. It highlights the values of honor, duty, and sacrifice and provides a glimpse into Japan’s feudal era and the samurai code of bushido.
6. Shoplifters (2018)
Director: Hirokazu Kore-eda
A nuanced portrayal of poverty and family bonds, Shoplifters examines the lives of a makeshift family in Tokyo who survive by shoplifting. This film sheds light on contemporary social issues and the resilience found in unlikely places.
7. Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)
Director: Rob Marshall
Set in Kyoto, this film follows the life of a young girl who becomes a geisha, providing a glimpse into the world of traditional Japanese arts, rituals, and beauty. The visuals capture the allure and mystery of Japan’s past.
8. Ramen Girl (2008)
Director: Robert Allan Ackerman
This movie follows an American woman’s journey to master the art of ramen-making in Tokyo. It offers a fun, lighthearted view of Japanese cuisine and highlights the importance of dedication and respect for culinary traditions.
9. Rashomon (1950)
Director: Akira Kurosawa
This groundbreaking film set in medieval Japan explores themes of truth and perspective. Kurosawa’s innovative storytelling and portrayal of samurai culture offer viewers a powerful look at human nature and ethics in Japanese society.
10. Okuribito (Departures) (2008)
Director: Yōjirō Takita
This Oscar-winning film explores the Japanese tradition of preparing the dead for their final journey, offering a moving glimpse into rituals surrounding death. It beautifully showcases the Japanese approach to life, death, and respect.
11. Ikiru (1952)
Director: Akira Kurosawa
A story about a Tokyo bureaucrat who reevaluates his life after a terminal diagnosis, Ikiru highlights themes of purpose and legacy. The film reflects Japan’s postwar transformation and its impact on the individual.
12. Battle Royale (2000)
Director: Kinji Fukasaku
A dystopian thriller that has influenced many modern films, Battle Royale dives into the pressures faced by Japanese youth. It’s a darker take on Japanese society, exploring themes of authority and resilience.
13. Our Little Sister (2015)
Director: Hirokazu Kore-eda
Set in the beautiful coastal town of Kamakura, this film follows three sisters who take in their younger half-sister. It’s a touching portrayal of family bonds, the beauty of everyday life, and Japan’s picturesque countryside.
14. 13 Assassins (2010)
Director: Takashi Miike
This action-packed samurai film set in Japan’s Edo period showcases bushido values, bravery, and loyalty. It’s a thrilling portrayal of feudal Japan and the honor code that defined the samurai.
15. Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)
Director: David Gelb
A documentary about the world-renowned sushi chef Jiro Ono, this film highlights the dedication, precision, and artistry behind Japanese cuisine. It’s a must-watch for anyone planning to explore Japan’s culinary scene.
16. Shin Godzilla (2016)
Director: Hideaki Anno, Shinji Higuchi
This modern take on the iconic monster explores Japan’s reaction to crises, drawing parallels with real-life events. It’s a unique blend of disaster movie and social commentary, offering insights into Japanese resilience.
17. Nobody Knows (2004)
Director: Hirokazu Kore-eda
This heart-wrenching film follows four siblings left to fend for themselves in Tokyo. It addresses social issues such as poverty and isolation in modern Japan, giving an intimate look at urban life.
18. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Director: Hayao Miyazaki
Another Studio Ghibli classic, My Neighbor Totoro showcases rural Japan through the eyes of two young sisters. The film’s portrayal of countryside life and connection with nature is as enchanting as it is heartwarming.
19. After Life (1998)
Director: Hirokazu Kore-eda
This thought-provoking film imagines an afterlife where people choose one memory to relive forever. The story explores Japanese views on life, memory, and legacy, all while showcasing serene, everyday beauty.
20. Norwegian Wood (2010)
Director: Tran Anh Hung
Based on the novel by Haruki Murakami, this film is set in 1960s Tokyo and explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. The cinematography and setting reflect Japan’s natural beauty and urban landscapes, capturing a melancholic side of life.
Each of these films provides a unique window into Japanese culture, history, or contemporary life, from Tokyo’s bustling streets to the serene Japanese countryside. Watching them before your trip will deepen your understanding and appreciation for the complex beauty of Japan, enhancing your travel experience.
