Going to The Cinema in Japan
Are you a film buff visiting Japan or a movie lover looking for a unique cinema experience? In this article, GoEMON will help you uncover the best ways to catch a film in Japan, from top theaters to handy ticket-buying tips!
Japan's film industry is a vibrant force, with a rich history and global impact. It's pumped out tons of amazing movies that have won over audiences everywhere.
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The strong film industry in Japan with many famous works such as Spirited Away, Your Name, Conan Movie…Japan is leading the way in using up-to-date technology in movies. The cinemas here are equipped with the most modern sound and image systems, giving you the most vivid and realistic movie-watching experience.
If you're in Japan, be sure not to miss the opportunity to catch the latest movies at cinemas . Plus, you might even have the chance to meet some big-name actors and directors!
Tips for Watching Movies in Japan
Ways to Buy Movie Tickets:
1. Buying directly at the cinema:
This is the easiest and simplest way to buy movie tickets. However, it can be difficult to reserve good seats for popular movies.
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You can go to the ticket counter and get assistance from the staff to purchase your tickets. Also, some cinemas have self-service ticket machines that you can use to buy tickets on your own.
2. Online:
Most movie theaters in Japan allow you to purchase tickets online in advance. This means you can buy tickets at your convenience, and there are also numerous cashless payment methods available.
3. Buy at convenience stores:
You can also buy movie tickets at convenience stores near where you live. But not all chains offer this service.You can buy movie tickets at these following convenience store chains:
- 7-Eleven (purchase at the マルチコピー機)
- FamilyMart (purchase at the マルチコピー機)
- Lawson (purchase at the Loppi)
These are called "Mubichike advance tickets" (ムビチケ前売券) and can be purchased one day before the movie’s release date. Plus, they are usually 300 to 500 yen cheaper than the regular price.
These convenience stores are open 24/7, so you can purchase tickets anytime, even late at night. They also make payment easy with stuff like QR codes. So, if you need movie tickets, just stop by a convenience store – they've got you covered at any time.
Japan is home to several iconic movie theaters with excellent reputations
Below, Goemon will share with you the top 20 highest-rated movie theaters. The survey was conducted nationwide and divided into 8 regions according to Eiga.com
- 1st position: Grand Sunshine Ikebukuro Cinema with a score of 79.5 points.
- 2nd position: TOHO Cinemas Nihonbashi with a score of 79.4 points.
- 3rd position: Shonan 109 Cinema with a score of 78.5 points.
- 3rd position: TOHO Cinemas Hibiya with a score of 78.5 points.
- 5th position: T. Joy Park Place Oita with a score of 78.4 points.
- 6th position: Hiroshima 109 Cinema with a score of 78.3 points.
- 6th position: TOHO Cinemas Okaminami with a score of 78.3 points.
- 8th position: Aeon Cinema Osakama with a score of 78.0 points
- 8th position: Cinema Mic Spiari with a score of 78.0 points
- 8th position: T. Joy Hakata with a score of 78.0 points
- 11th position: TOHO Cinemas Shibuya with a score of 77.9 points
- 12th position: United Cinema Niigata with a score of 77.8 points
- 13th position: OS Cinemas Kobe Harborland with a score of 77.7 points
- 14th position: Earth Cinemas Himeji with a score of 77.6 points
- 14th position: Aeon Cinema Tokushima with a score of 77.6 points
- 16th position: Osaka Station City Cinema with a score of 77.5 points
- 16th position: TOHO Cinemas Sendai with a score of 77.5 points
- 18th position: TOHO Cinemas Nijo with a score of 77.4 points
- 19th position: Midland Square Movie Theater with a score of 77.3 points
- 20th position: MOVIX Kurashiki with a score of 77.2 points
- 20th position: United Cinema Wakaba with a score of 77.2 points
Notes on Etiquette When Watching Movies in Japan
Watching movies in Japan is a unique experience for visitors. People there are polite and respectful in movie theaters. They make sure to turn off their phones, refrain from making any sounds, and eat quietly so as not to disturb others. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the movie without any distractions.
That's why Japan is the perfect destination for movie lovers. Not only do you get to see awesome films, but you also get to soak up the unique movie culture of Japan.
Have you visited any of Japan's top theaters or tried out the local ticket-buying methods? Share your experiences or ask any questions you might have about enjoying movies in Japan, we’d love to hear from you!
Don’t forget to follow GoEMON Global on our official Facebook for the latest updates on life in Japan via this link right here: https://www.facebook.com/GoEMONGlobal
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