Toei Kyoto Studio Park

• Toei Kyoto Studio Park will temporarily close from March 2 to March 13 due to the coronavirus. For updates on the COVID-19 situation in Japan check GaijinPot Blog: https://blog.gaijinpot.com/is-it-safe-to-visit-japan-as-the-coronavirus-cases-increase/

This is the theme park for people who want to transport back into old, old-school Japan. Located in the ultimate cultural exploratory Kyoto, TOEI Kyoto Studio Park is part movie set and part theme park. If you love ninjas and Japanese film and literature, this is the spot for you.

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What makes Toei Kyoto Studio Park, which is one of GaijinPot’s Top 5 theme parks in Japan, so special is that it’s the only theme park in Japan to see filming of “era dramas” known as jidaigeki, which show up in films, television and games. These famous films are mostly set in the Edo period, but some are in the Meiji era. The Edo Period village set at the park is utilized in more than 200 films per year. But you don’t have to just watch, feel free to dress up as a geisha or samurai and get your photo taken as souvenirs.

Attractions

The park is great for families, as it’s equipped with areas to entertain the young ones, but is just as accommodating (and interesting) for adults. You can learn and see a lot through a guided park tour, where one of the Toei actors will take you around the open set.

There are wild street performances, as well as full-blown live-action shows. One of the most popular shows has high kicks and flying ninjas. In a battle between the two most famous ninjas, “Sarutobi Sasuke” and “Hattori Hanzo” the show recreates the world of ninja battles with the combination of 3D-projection mapping. Also fun is the Ninja Mystery House and the samurai sword fighting lesson.

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On-site shops

The park has more than 10 different types of restaurants and shops. An array of food is offered with traditional Japanese food to Chinese and Western fare. If you haven’t had enough ninja yet, you can also try out the on-site ninja cafe. The menu has ninja-themed food from curry to caramel corn, plus plenty of souvenirs.

While the park is dedicated to Edo Japan, it has has some surprising twists with unexpected attractions like Digital Deep Sea Aquarium and a haunted house, plus seasonal events. The attractions could keep you there all day, so be prepared. TOEI Kyoto Studio Park is great for travelers looking to enhance their cultural experience while in Kyoto.

Dig Japanese history? Read more on where to find historic gems in Japan.