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Immerse in the world of samurai, ninja, and Japanese cinema at Toei Kyoto Studio Park, Kyoto’s one-of-a-kind historical theme park and working film set.

A wide, sunlit street lined with traditional wooden Japanese buildings in Toei Kyoto Studio Park, resembling an Edo period village. The area appears empty, with benches and signs along the walkway.

Walk Through Edo Japan—and a Real Movie Set

If you’re looking for something different from Kyoto’s temples and shrines, Toei Kyoto Studio Park offers a completely experience and it’s great fun for the family. This unique theme park recreates the streets of Edo-period Japan, complete with samurai, geisha, and ninja. It’s also an active filming location, so you might catch a real television shoot while wandering the grounds!

We had so much fun exploring the historical sets, watching thrilling live performances, and trying out hands-on samurai and ninja activities. It was one of the most interactive, kid-friendly attractions we visited in Kyoto and the whole family loved it.

Why We Loved Visiting Toei Kyoto Studio Park

There’s a lot to see and do at this theme park, especially if you’re traveling with kids or are a fan of Japanese period dramas or anime. The mix of history, action, and nostalgia made it a unique stop during our Kyoto trip.

Live Action Shows

Two people in traditional Japanese samurai clothing stand outside at Toei Kyoto Studio Park; one smiles and raises their hands playfully, while the other, holding a sword, looks ahead calmly. A white wall and sandy ground are in the background.

We watched an exciting samurai sword fight and a high-energy ninja stunt show that had our kids cheering. The performances are scheduled throughout the day and feature everything from choreographed battles to Power Rangers-style special effects.

Edo-Period Streets and Film Sets

The park recreates Edo-period neighborhoods with impressive detail. We strolled past a Meiji-era police station, a courthouse, and even a replica of the iconic Nihonbashi Bridge. Many scenes from NHK’s dramas and other historical shows are filmed here, so it really feels like stepping onto a live set.

Anime and Manga Museum

A young child in a red hat stands in front of a large Mazinger Z robot statue, which has red wings, blue limbs, and a black torso, displayed indoors behind a black rope barrier.

Inside the Toei Animation Museum, we got a nostalgic look at some of our favorite characters from classic anime like Sailor Moon, Dragon Ball, and One Piece. There are exhibits, vintage toys, life size statues, and photo spots for fans of all ages.

Dress Up Like a Ninja or Samurai

One of the most memorable experiences at the park was getting into costume. You can rent a full ninja, samurai, or geisha outfit and walk around the park in character. It’s especially fun for taking dramatic photos on the Edo-style sets.

More Attractions Inside the Park

A performer with bright red hair and a colorful costume poses dramatically on stage under a spotlight, with beams of light radiating behind them in a theater setting.

In addition to the film sets and performances, the park includes several other attractions. Some of these require separate admission fees.

  • Haunted House – Known as one of Japan’s scariest! Teens and thrill-seekers will love it.
  • Shuriken and Sword Activities – Try throwing ninja stars or test your samurai skills with foam sword fighting.
  • Arcade and Game Zone – Kids can enjoy retro games, carnival-style booths, and hands-on fun.

Ticket Prices and Hours

As of July 2023:

  • Adults: ¥2,400
  • Middle and High School Students: ¥1,400
  • Children: ¥1,200
  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours may vary by season)

How to Get to Toei Kyoto Studio Park

Train

  • Take the Keifuku Arashiyama Line and get off at Uzumasa-Koryuji Station (5-minute walk).
  • Or take the JR Sanin Main Line to Hanazono Station (15-minute walk).
  • From Ryoan-ji, take the Kitano Line to Tokiwa Station (not covered by Kyoto transit passes).
  • Total travel time: 30–40 minutes from central Kyoto.

Bus

  • From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus #75 or Kyoto Bus #73, 76, or 83 (approx. 30 minutes).

Taxi

  • Taxi from Kyoto Station takes about 25 minutes and costs around ¥2,500–¥3,000.

Pro Tip: Visiting after Ryoan-ji or Arashiyama? Toei Studio Park is just a short train ride away, perfect for combining historical sightseeing with family fun.

Is Toei Kyoto Studio Park Worth Visiting?

A group of adults and children pose smiling with actors in traditional samurai clothing, holding swords in front of a wooden building with Japanese signs and a red banner.

Yes, especially if you’re looking for something fun and different in Kyoto!

Toei Kyoto Studio Park is the only place in Japan where you can dress up like a ninja, walk through Edo-period movie sets, and watch live-action samurai shows—all in one spot. It’s a fantastic break from temple-hopping and a great family-friendly attraction, with interactive exhibits and plenty of photo opportunities.

Trust us—it’s a full day of fun, history, and unforgettable memories.

More to Explore Nearby

After stepping into the world of samurai and ninja at Toei Kyoto Studio Park, here are more Kyoto attractions to explore nearby:

  • Ryoan-ji Temple (龍安寺) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its minimalist Zen rock garden and peaceful temple grounds.
  • Kyoto Station (京都駅) – A modern architectural landmark filled with shopping, dining, rooftop gardens, and dazzling night views.
  • Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺) – The Silver Pavilion, famous for its raked sand garden and moss-covered landscape.
  • Philosopher’s Path – A scenic stroll along a cherry tree-lined canal, connecting several quiet temples and shrines.

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