Tokyo, a city that combines the traditional with the modern, serves as the perfect setting for filmmakers to explore a range of narratives. From the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku to the serene gardens of Chiyoda, Tokyo’s diverse landscapes provide a dynamic setting for stories of love, loss, adventure, and introspection. These selections not only highlight the city’s architectural and cultural diversity but also depict the personal journeys of their characters, set against the fast-paced, ever-changing life of Japan’s capital. Whether through the frames of a groundbreaking anime or the contemplative pace of a family drama, these films invite viewers to experience Tokyo in many different ways. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films set in Tokyo.
10. Adrift in Tokyo – Satoshi Miki (2007)
In “Adrift in Tokyo”, a Japanese film from the 2000s and directed by Satoshi Miki, the narrative follows Fumiya, a university student dealing with a massive amount of debt, and Fukuhara, a loan shark enforcer who offers to clear Fumiya’s debt if he accompanies him on a walk across Tokyo. Their journey together evolves into an unusual and engaging exploration of the city, as they encounter a variety of quirky characters and situations that challenge their perspectives on life and their own personal dilemmas. The dialogue between Fumiya and Fukuhara is filled with humor and observations about life, adding depth to their unlikely friendship.
The film uses the city of Tokyo not just as a setting but as a character in its own right, showcasing its diverse neighborhoods and the hidden gems that only a local or a wanderer might stumble upon. The warmth in their interactions provides a refreshing look at human connections, showing how unexpected companionships can lead to profound self-discovery. The movie excels in portraying Tokyo life, inviting viewers to see the beauty in the mundane and the potential for growth in every step. This exploration of Tokyo offers a unique perspective on the city, far removed from the typical tourist trails. “Adrift in Tokyo” stands out for its ability to combine comedy with moments of introspection, making it a memorable journey through the streets of Tokyo.
9. Tokyo Drifter – Seijun Suzuki (1966)
“Tokyo Drifter”, directed by Seijun Suzuki in the 60s, is a stylish and colorful yakuza film that follows Tetsu, a former gangster trying to go straight after his boss disbands their gang. However, his past refuses to let him go peacefully, dragging him back into a world of violence, loyalty, and betrayal as rival factions fight for power in the underworld of Tokyo. The film is renowned for its visual flair and the innovative use of color, music, and set design, creating a surreal and captivating atmosphere that distinguishes it from other films of its genre. The dynamic between Tetsu and the world he tries to leave behind enables a deep exploration of themes such as freedom and destiny.
Suzuki creates a narrative that is as visually engaging as it is compelling, using Tokyo as a vibrant playground for the film’s action and drama. The city’s neon-lit streets and shadowy back alleys serve as the perfect setting for Tetsu’s journey, highlighting the film’s themes of identity, honor, and the struggle to escape one’s past. As Tetsu faces the complexities of his former life, the film explores the psychological impact of his choices on his quest for redemption. “Tokyo Drifter” remains a standout work in the Japanese New Wave, celebrated for its avant-garde approach and its influence on both Japanese and international cinema. Suzuki’s direction ensures that the film offers a visually stunning experience that helps to make this one of the best films set in Tokyo.
8. Lost in Translation – Sofia Coppola (2003)
“Lost in Translation”, directed by Sofia Coppola, tells the story of Bob Harris, an aging American movie star, and Charlotte, a young college graduate, who form an unlikely bond after a chance meeting in a Tokyo hotel. Both feel disconnected from their lives and the world around them, but they find solace and understanding in each other’s company in the bustling city of Tokyo. The film explores their experiences of cultural and personal dislocation, capturing the essence of being adrift in a foreign land while searching for meaning and connection. Throughout their journey, Tokyo’s many different landscape, from its serene temples to its frenetic game centers, mirror the internal contrasts each character confronts.
The portrayal of Tokyo in “Lost in Translation” shows the city’s lively streets, neon lights, and tranquil spaces that reflect the evolving emotions of the protagonists. The subtle exploration of themes such as loneliness, alienation, and the fleeting nature of human connection offers a powerful look at the complexities of communication and emotional intimacy. Coppola’s direction and the performances by the leads give the narrative a sense of realism and empathy, inviting viewers to reflect on their own moments of disconnection and the universal desire for understanding. “Lost in Translation” is celebrated for its atmospheric storytelling, memorable cinematography, and the way it captures the beauty of transient moments and relationships.
7. Godzilla – Ishirō Honda (1954)
“Godzilla”, directed by Ishirō Honda, is a groundbreaking Kaiju film that introduced the world to the iconic monster, Godzilla, a gigantic prehistoric creature awakened and mutated by nuclear radiation. The film takes place in Tokyo, where Godzilla emerges from the depths of the ocean, unleashing destruction on the city with its immense power and radioactive breath. As panic ensues, scientists and government officials scramble to find a way to stop the monster, leading to a tense and dramatic confrontation. The narrative serves as a metaphor for the nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, reflecting Japan’s post-war anxieties and the broader fears of nuclear warfare.
Honda’s film is a masterful blend of science fiction and horror that goes beyond mere spectacle to explore themes of human vulnerability, the consequences of atomic energy, and the balance between nature and technological progress. “Godzilla” has not only spawned a vast franchise but also left a lasting mark on pop culture as a whole, symbolizing the destructive force of nature when tampered with by humanity. Its influence extends beyond cinema, becoming a powerful commentary on environmental and ethical issues that continue to resonate in contemporary society. Through its story, “Godzilla” questions the ethics of nuclear power and its impact on humanity and the environment, ensuring its place as one of the best movies set in Tokyo.
6. Tokyo Sonata – Kiyoshi Kurosawa (2008)
In “Tokyo Sonata”, directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa, the narrative focuses on the Sasaki family, who live a seemingly ordinary life in suburban Tokyo. The family’s stability is shattered when Ryuhei, the father, loses his job but chooses to keep this a secret, leading to a series of events that expose the underlying tensions and secrets among the family members. Each member, including the two sons, embarks on a personal journey that reflects their struggles with identity, purpose, and expectations in contemporary society. This exploration extends to the youngest son’s secret pursuit of piano lessons, symbolizing individual aspirations that defy familial and social expectations. It offers a critical look at modern family dynamics and the pressures of maintaining appearances in the face of adversity.
Kurosawa’s film is a powerful examination of the challenges facing a typical middle-class family in Tokyo, combining elements of drama and social commentary. “Tokyo Sonata” is notable for its realistic portrayal of domestic life and the realistic performances of its cast, which bring depth and empathy to their roles. The film also explores the concept of pride and the difficulty of accepting change, particularly through Ryuhei’s journey and the lengths he goes to conceal his unemployment. The film invites viewers to reflect on the fragility of family bonds and the universal desire for connection and understanding in a rapidly changing world. The city of Tokyo, with its contrast of traditional and modernity, enhances the narrative’s exploration of the characters’ internal and external conflicts.
5. Tokyo Godfathers – Satoshi Kon (2003)
“Tokyo Godfathers”, directed by Satoshi Kon, is a 2000s anime film that tells the story of three homeless people: Gin, a middle-aged alcoholic, Hana, a transgender woman, and Miyuki, a runaway teenager. On Christmas Eve, they discover an abandoned baby in a trash heap and embark on a quest through Tokyo to find the baby’s parents, leadsing them through various encounters that test their resolve and ultimately bring them closer together. Along the way, each character confronts their past and the circumstances that led them to their current state of homelessness. The cold streets of Tokyo during winter add a contrast to the warmth of the unfolding story, emphasizing the characters’ resilience and hope.
Satoshi Kon’s mastery of animation brings the city of Tokyo to life, creating a setting that reflects the diverse experiences of its inhabitants. “Tokyo Godfathers” is celebrated for its unique blend of humor and emotional depth, as well as its thoughtful portrayal of marginalized characters who defy conventional stereotypes. As the trio faces the complexities of urban life, their journey highlights the city’s capacity for both indifference and unexpected acts of kindness. The film challenges viewers to look beyond societal labels and recognize the dignity inherent in all individuals, regardless of their life circumstances. It remains an enduring favorite thanks to its heartwarming narrative and memorable characters, making it one of the best films set in Tokyo.
4. Your Name. – Makoto Shinkai (2016)
“Your Name.” is an animated film directed by Makoto Shinkai that tells the tale of Taki and Mitsuha, two teenagers living in different parts of Japan who suddenly begin to swap bodies. Taki, a city boy from Tokyo, and Mitsuha, a girl from a rural town, live through each other’s lives and form a deep, albeit distant, connection. As they navigate the complexities of each other’s worlds, they attempt to meet in person. Their body-swapping experience becomes a metaphor for the universal desire to understand and be understood by others, transcending physical distance and cultural differences. The film explores themes of identity, love, and longing, all set in the city of Tokyo and the serene beauty of the Japanese countryside.
Makoto Shinkai’s “Your Name.” is celebrated for its stunning animation and emotional depth, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. The film’s portrayal of Tokyo offers a powerful contrast to Mitsuha’s hometown, highlighting the city’s dynamic culture and the isolation one can feel amid its crowded streets. The narrative combines elements of traditional Japanese culture with the modern-day challenges of identity and connection. As the story unfolds, Taki and Mitsuha’s quest for each other challenges the boundaries of time and reality, showcasing the power of human connection to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
3. Akira – Katsuhiro Otomo (1988)
“Akira”, directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, is a groundbreaking anime film set in a dystopian Tokyo of 2019, decades after a devastating explosion that triggered World War III. The story focuses on Kaneda, a bike gang leader, and his friend Tetsuo, who acquires telekinetic abilities after a motorcycle accident. Tetsuo’s growing power leads him down a destructive path, threatening the city and igniting a struggle involving rebel groups, government forces, and scientists. The visual representation of Tetsuo’s powers showcases Otomo’s ability to blend chaotic energy with detailed animation. The film explores themes of power, corruption, and the search for identity amidst the chaos of a society on the brink of collapse.
Otomo’s “Akira” is renowned for its highly detailed animation, complex characters, and a profound narrative that challenges viewers to contemplate the impact of unchecked power and the essence of humanity. The portrayal of Neo-Tokyo is both mesmerizing and harrowing, offering a vision of the future that is as captivating as it is cautionary, making this one of the best films set in Tokyo. With its innovative animation techniques and ambitious storytelling, “Akira” has left a lasting mark on the science fiction genre and animation, influencing countless works in film and television. Its legacy endures to this day, celebrated for its artistic achievements and its thought-provoking exploration of themes that continue to resonate with audiences to this day.
2. Tokyo Story – Yasujirō Ozu (1953)
“Tokyo Story”, directed by Yasujirō Ozu, is a film that explores the generational divide and the evolving nature of family dynamics in post-war Tokyo. The story focuses on an elderly couple who travel to Tokyo to visit their grown children, only to find that their busy lives leave little time for them. The couple’s presence becomes an inconvenience to their children, except for their widowed daughter-in-law, who treats them with kindness and makes an effort to spend time with them. This contrast between the children’s neglect and the daughter-in-law’s compassion highlights the complexities of familial obligations and affection. The film explores themes of neglect, loneliness, and the changing values between generations.
Ozu’s approach to storytelling, characterized by its simplicity and depth, captures the essence of everyday life and the quiet moments that define human relationships. “Tokyo Story” is celebrated for its understated emotional depth, the director’s signature low-camera angles, and static shots that invite viewers to observe the characters’ lives with a contemplative gaze. The slow pacing and minimalistic style allow one to fully engage with the emotional landscape of its characters, creating a deeply immersive viewing experience. Widely recognized as a masterpiece of world cinema, “Tokyo Story” continues to resonate with audiences for its examination of family ties, the passage of time, and the universal experience of aging.
1. Perfect Blue – Satoshi Kon (1997)
“Perfect Blue”, directed by Satoshi Kon, is a psychological thriller that dives into the psyche of Mima Kirigoe, a pop idol who leaves her music career to become an actress. This decision triggers a series of unsettling events that blur the lines between reality and illusion, as Mima struggles with her identity, her past as an idol, and a stalker who seems to know every detail of her life. The intensity of Mima’s experiences is amplified by the ever-changing landscape of Tokyo, which mirrors the volatility of her own life. As her new career leads her into more mature and complex roles, Mima begins to lose her grip on reality, leading to a harrowing exploration of fame, identity, and the dark side of the entertainment industry.
“Perfect Blue” is celebrated for its innovative animation, complex narrative structure, and its exploration of the psychological impact of fame and the media. Satoshi Kon’s direction creates a tense, atmospheric thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, challenging them to distinguish between illusion and reality along with Mima. The film’s use of color, transitions, and music contributes to its unsettling atmosphere, making it a standout piece in the psychological thriller genre. Through “Perfect Blue”, Kon delivers a critical reflection on the pressures and dangers of public life in the digital age. “Perfect Blue” has gained acclaim for its commentary on the commodification of pop idols and the voyeuristic nature of fandom, ensuring its place as one of the best films set in Tokyo.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films set in Tokyo:
- Adrift in Tokyo – Satoshi Miki (2007)
- Tokyo Drifter – Seijun Suzuki (1966)
- Lost in Translation – Sofia Coppola (2003)
- Godzilla – Ishirō Honda (1954)
- Tokyo Sonata – Kiyoshi Kurosawa (2008)
- Tokyo Godfathers – Satoshi Kon (2003)
- Your Name. – Makoto Shinkai (2016)
- Akira – Katsuhiro Otomo (1988)
- Tokyo Story – Yasujirō Ozu (1953)
- Perfect Blue – Satoshi Kon (1997)
