Kyoto, with its stunning landscapes and expansive cultural heritage, has served as the setting for numerous cinematic masterpieces over the years. From intense samurai duels in the shadows of ancient temples to personal dramas in the geisha districts, these films capture the essence of Kyoto in diverse and captivating ways. They not only showcase the city’s physical beauty but also reflect on the complexities of life, love, and conflict, set against the backdrop of one of Japan’s most iconic cities. Journey through the streets of Kyoto with us to discover how this city continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films set in Kyoto.
10. Samurai II: Duel at Ichijoji Temple – Hiroshi Inagaki (1955)
In “Samurai II: Duel at Ichijoji Temple”, a Japanese film from the 1950s, director Hiroshi Inagaki continues the journey of the legendary samurai Musashi Miyamoto. This chapter follows Musashi as he seeks to hone his skills and confront the formidable Yoshioka school in Kyoto. His path is not just a series of battles, but also a deep reflection on his principles and the choices he makes. The city of Kyoto and its historic ambiance serves as a perfect setting for Musashi’s quest for martial excellence and personal growth. The film captures his challenges and evolving philosophy amidst the conflicts and alliances he encounters on his journey.
Set amongst Kyoto’s serene beauty and its warrior culture, the film explores themes of honor, ambition, and personal transformation. Musashi’s interactions with the people of Kyoto and the city’s environment deeply influence his journey, highlighting the connection between his character and the setting. Inagaki’s direction brings out the intensity of samurai duels and the internal struggles of his characters. The portrayal of Kyoto not only highlights its architectural elegance but also reflects the period’s cultural ethos, enhancing the narrative and making the city an integral part of Musashi’s story. Through Musashi’s journey, the film offers a window into the samurai spirit and Kyoto’s significance in Japan’s feudal history.
9. The Yakuza – Sydney Pollack (1974)
“The Yakuza”, directed by Sydney Pollack, presents an engaging narrative set in the world of Japanese organized crime, with Kyoto playing a pivotal role in the unfolding drama. The story follows a retired detective, Harry Kilmer, who returns to Japan to rescue his friend’s daughter from the clutches of the yakuza. As Kilmer faces the complexities of loyalty and tradition, Kyoto’s traditional and modern aspects mirror the film’s contrasting values. The city becomes a character in its own right, its storied past clashing with the shadowy dealings of contemporary underworld figures. The city’s atmospheric settings amplify the tension and emotional depth of the characters’ journey.
Sydney Pollack’s film is a cross-cultural exploration that takes a look at themes of redemption, loyalty, and the battle between modernity and tradition. Through its depiction of Kyoto, the film contrasts the city’s tranquil temples and bustling streets with the hidden, perilous world of the yakuza. Kilmer’s quest is as much a journey through the physical spaces of Kyoto as it is a descent into the labyrinthine world of gangland honor and revenge. The interactions between the characters and the city’s landscape adds further layers of depth to the film, making this one of the best films set in Kyoto. “The Yakuza” stands out as a compelling narrative that captures the complexity of human relationships within the mysterious and rigid hierarchy of Japan’s underworld.
8. Sisters of the Gion – Kenji Mizoguchi (1936)
“Sisters of the Gion”, directed by Kenji Mizoguchi, is a narrative set in the heart of Kyoto, focusing on the lives of two geisha sisters who face the complexities of their profession. The older sister adopts a traditional approach to her role, while the younger one takes a more pragmatic and cynical view of their circumstances. The film portrays the intersection of personal aspirations and professional duties, showing how these elements conflict and come together in their lives. Their contrasting philosophies towards life and work in the Gion district offers a deep exploration of the challenges they face. Mizoguchi’s film is renowned for its honest portrayal of the geisha’s existence, set against the culturally rich environment of Kyoto.
The movie’s exploration of the sisters’ dynamics provides a lens through which the audience can observe the evolving roles of women in Japanese society. It also explores the impact of external perceptions on their personal identities, showcasing how societal views shape their self-conception and actions. Mizoguchi uses Kyoto’s historic districts to symbolize the tension between progress and tradition, a recurring theme in the sisters’ interactions and choices. The film not only examines their personal journeys but also provides commentary on the broader societal changes occurring in Kyoto during that era. Through “Sisters of the Gion,” Mizoguchi presents a narrative that resonates with the struggles of adapting to societal shifts while clinging to ingrained values.
7. Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Deadly Fight in Hiroshima – Kinji Fukasaku (1973)
“Deadly Fight in Hiroshima”, a chapter of Kinji Fukasaku’s “Battles Without Honor and Humanity” series, though primarily set in Hiroshima, includes crucial scenes that take place in Kyoto. This film explores the power struggles and alliances within the yakuza clans, with Kyoto serving as a critical backdrop for certain pivotal moments. The inclusion of Kyoto’s serene settings provides a visual and thematic counterbalance to the film’s overarching tension and conflict. The city’s ambiance contrasts with the brutal world of the yakuza, providing a stark juxtaposition between the serene and the violent. Fukasaku’s direction captures the essence of Kyoto’s culture while bringing it together with the film’s gritty, raw energy.
While Kyoto is not the main locale, its inclusion in the film offers a distinctive contrast to the more chaotic settings of the narrative. The city’s historic charm and scenic beauty play a subtle yet powerful role in emphasizing the turmoil and unrest within the yakuza world. The serene and historical elements of Kyoto provide a brief respite from the intense world of yakuza conflicts. This duality enhances the film’s narrative, adding layers to its exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and survival. Through this cinematic journey, viewers are offered a glimpse into the world of the yakuza, underscored by the transient beauty of one of Japan’s most iconic cities, ensuring that this is one of the best films set in Kyoto.
6. Gamera 3: Revenge of Iris – Shusuke Kaneko (1999)
“Gamera 3: Revenge of Iris” takes place in Kyoto, where the city becomes a battleground for a climactic confrontation between the titular giant turtle Gamera and the menacing creature Iris. The plot intensifies as a young girl, Ayana, forms a bond with Iris, seeking vengeance against Gamera for past destructions that he has caused. This connection adds a personal dimension to the colossal conflict, combining human emotions with the catastrophic Kaiju battles. As these colossal beings collide, the streets of Kyoto transform into a dramatic stage for their epic showdown, blending the historic charm of the city with the spectacle of kaiju cinema, creating a unique visual experience.
Shusuke Kaneko’s direction in this third installment of the Gamera series elevates the narrative with its action sequences and special effects that capture the grandeur and chaos of gigantic monster battles. The contrast of Kyoto’s peaceful ambiance against the backdrop of kaiju destruction heightens the tension and stakes of the narrative. The human characters’ stories are brought together with the kaiju chaos, reflecting their personal struggles amidst the larger conflict. “Gamera 3: Revenge of Iris” not only delivers on the excitement expected from a monster movie but also incorporates Kyoto’s scenery in a manner that amplifies the film’s dramatic impact.
5. A Geisha – Kenji Mizoguchi (1953)
In “A Geisha”, Kenji Mizoguchi returns to Kyoto, focusing on the life of a young girl, Miyoharu, who becomes a geisha with the help of an older, more experienced geisha, Eiko. The film explores the challenges and moral dilemmas they face in the post-war era, as they face the complexities of their profession amidst changing times. Their journey is characterized by the evolving dynamics of mentorship and friendship, shining a light on the small details of their relationship. Kyoto, with its traditional beauty and cultural depth, serves as the perfect setting for this exploration of the geisha’s world. Mizoguchi’s narrative is a thoughtful examination of the characters’ lives, set against the evocative backdrop of Kyoto’s geisha district.
This film stands out for its authentic portrayal of the geisha lifestyle and the city of Kyoto, highlighting the contrast between the characters’ public personas and their private struggles. The interactions between tradition and modernity is a central theme, reflecting the broader societal changes of the time. The film’s exploration of personal agency within the confines of a structured society adds further depth to the characters’ stories. The performances are a highlight, capturing the essence of the characters’ experiences and the city’s cultural landscape. “A Geisha” offers a window into a specific aspect of the city’s history, ensuring its place as one of the best films set in Kyoto.
4. The Twilight Samurai – Yoji Yamada (2002)
“The Twilight Samurai”, directed by Yoji Yamada, tells the story of Seibei Iguchi, a low-ranking samurai living in Kyoto during the late Edo period. Iguchi, a widower with two daughters, struggles to balance his duties as a samurai with his responsibilities at home. This delicate situation is further complicated as he grapples with the societal expectations placed upon him, highlighting the personal cost of adherence to duty. His life takes a significant turn when an old acquaintance, Tomoe, re-enters his life, leading to a series of events that challenge his peaceful, routine existence. Set in the historical city of Kyoto, the film explores the life of a samurai who is far removed from the battlefield.
Yamada’s film is a subtle examination of the human condition, set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing Japan. Through Iguchi’s eyes, we witness the crossing of personal desires with the demands of honor and tradition, providing a deep dive into his inner conflicts. The director uses the city of Kyoto, with its historical significance and aesthetic beauty, to underscore the protagonist’s internal and external conflicts. The film’s portrayal of Kyoto transcends mere geography, using the city’s cultural heritage to deeply enhance the narrative’s emotional depth. “The Twilight Samurai” stands out for its focus on the everyday life and personal struggles of a samurai, offering a unique perspective on the samurai genre.
3. The Crucified Lovers – Kenji Mizoguchi (1954)
In “The Crucified Lovers”, directed by Kenji Mizoguchi, the narrative takes place in Kyoto, where a forbidden romance between a married woman and a man who works at her husband’s printing shop leads to tragic consequences. The film, set in the 17th century, explores the lovers’ desperate attempt to escape the rigid confines of their societal roles, reflecting the broader constraints imposed by the society of the time, emphasizing the personal costs of defying established norms. As their affair becomes public, they face severe repercussions, highlighting the harsh realities of their time. Mizoguchi’s portrayal of Kyoto offers a glimpse into the city’s history, serving as a crucial element in the unfolding drama.
Mizoguchi’s expertise in storytelling is evident in the way he captures the essence of Kyoto and the period’s cultural environment. The setting reflects the societal and cultural details of the era, enhancing the story’s authenticity and emotional depth, with the city’s architecture and landscapes providing a contrast to the protagonists’ turmoil. This juxtaposition serves to deepen the audience’s understanding of the characters’ plight and the societal pressures they confront. Through “The Crucified Lovers,” Mizoguchi not only tells a compelling story but also presents a critical view of the historical and social dynamics of the city, making this one of the best movies set in Kyoto.
2. Kwaidan – Masaki Kobayashi (1964)
“Kwaidan”, directed by Masaki Kobayashi, is a mesmerizing anthology of four Japanese folk tales, each filled with supernatural elements and set against the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of Kyoto. The stories explore themes of love, betrayal, and the supernatural, with each segment presenting a unique, visually striking narrative. The film explores the historical and cultural essence of Kyoto in each story, enhancing the mystical ambiance that defines the film. It is renowned for its artistic style, utilizing vivid colors and carefully designed sets to create an ethereal atmosphere. The Kyoto setting enhances the film’s eerie and surreal quality, grounding the fantastical elements in a real-world context.
Kobayashi’s approach to storytelling in “Kwaidan” is both innovative and traditional, reflecting the strong cultural heritage of Kyoto while pushing the boundaries of the horror genre. Each tale is a testament to the city’s ability to create stories that are as haunting as they are beautiful. The use of Kyoto’s landscapes and architecture adds a layer of authenticity to the tales, which are deeply rooted in Japanese folklore, ensuring that the film not only entertains, but also educates viewers about the cultural and historical details of Kyoto. Through its visual and thematic complexity, “Kwaidan” offers a cinematic experience that goes beyond the conventional horror narrative, presenting stories that linger in the viewer’s mind long after the film ends.
1. Rashomon – Akira Kurosawa (1950)
“Rashomon”, directed by Akira Kurosawa, is a groundbreaking film that explores the nature of truth and perception through a crime that occurs in a forest just outside of Kyoto. The film presents multiple accounts of the same incident, involving the murder of a samurai and the assault of his wife, as recounted by different characters. This narrative technique not only defines the plot but also highlights the fluidity of truth in the face of human subjectivity. Each version of the story reveals the characters’ subjective truths, challenging the audience to confront their own notions of reality and justice. Set in the 11th century, the film’s historical Kyoto setting provides a vivid backdrop for this psychological drama.
Kurosawa’s masterful use of the Kyoto setting not only anchors the film in a specific time and place but also enhances the narrative’s exploration of human nature. The shifting perspectives within the film mirror the changing vistas of Kyoto itself, adding a dynamic layer to the storytelling. The film’s innovative narrative structure and visual style have made it one of the most influential and studied films in cinema history. “Rashomon” not only captures the essence of Kyoto’s historical landscape but also uses it to deepen the film’s exploration of complex themes. Thanks to its groundbreaking narrative, “Rashomon” continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, cementing its status as one of the best films set in Kyoto.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films set in Kyoto:
- Samurai II: Duel at Ichijoji Temple – Hiroshi Inagaki (1955)
- The Yakuza – Sydney Pollack (1974)
- Sisters of the Gion – Kenji Mizoguchi (1936)
- Battles Without Honor and Humanity: Deadly Fight in Hiroshima – Kinji Fukasaku (1973)
- Gamera 3: Revenge of Iris – Shusuke Kaneko (1999)
- A Geisha – Kenji Mizoguchi (1953)
- The Twilight Samurai – Yoji Yamada (2002)
- The Crucified Lovers – Kenji Mizoguchi (1954)
- Kwaidan – Masaki Kobayashi (1964)
- Rashomon – Akira Kurosawa (1950)
