Toei Kyoto Studio Park is famous throughout Japan for its theme park but it also is a working production film studio. My family had decided to visit Kyoto during our spring vacation because my children are Japanese samurai, ninja and traditional film fans. I was excited about going here too as over the years I have appreciated Japanese films.
Getting to the location is easy whether you are driving as the signage is very clear and there is ample parking but it’s not free, for the day the parking costs 1000 yen. There are local trains, subway and bus stops. Please look at the links for all the access details.
The park is basically divided into 4 sections. The first part is the traditional film lots that show what Japan was like centuries ago. You can wonder around, seeing the old houses, seeing how simple life was back then, getting a sense of what village life was without all the modern contraptions we use today. The second part is the exhibition lots, they include the history of film in Japan, displays of Japanese anime characters and an interactive fun area for kids and adults. The third section is the live theater where you can watch an interactive show between mythical gods and ninja. It’s really exciting and the actors put on a great show. I have been fortunate to see a lot of old and contemporary theater in Japan and it always amazes me with the level of commitment to the performance. A far cry from the shy people you will meet here in Japan. The show lasts for about 40 minutes and the timetable of the performances is just outside the theater. I really do recommend this. The last section is dedicated to the legends and myth surrounding ninja. There is a ghost house that you have to pay to enter. On this day I decided against going because my kids would have a hard time sleeping that night. One important lesson I have learned here in Japan is that when it comes to ghosts, monsters, horror etc they REALLY are scary.
I did enjoy the time here but think it is an experience that can be enjoyed in one visit. Of course this is a business and there are always special exhibitions or events happening. If you live close by I am sure it's a place you can visit often but for me once is enough.
