movie

Movies can be a great way of introducing people to exciting and scenic locations around the world and many films throughout the years have been set in places across Japan. Kansai has a wealth of vibrant and beautiful spots that have attracted scriptwriters and directors across the genres – from horror to historical to action. Here are some of the more popular films that have given cinema geeks a reason to visit the Kansai region. Black Rain (Osaka) This 1989 crime noir thriller from Ridley Scott, not to be confused with the 1989 Japanese film of the same name about Hiroshima, was largely shot at various locations in Osaka. The film features Michael Douglas and Andy Garcia as two New York cops who end up involved in a gang war between members of the Yakuza, the Japanese mafia. Black Rain was originally due to be shot in Toyko, but the Osaka authorities were more receptive in terms of film permits. The grimy downtown areas and neon-lit Dotonbori district were perfect for the film’s atmosphere with the Kirin Plaza building (used as “Club Miyako” in the film) and the iconic Glico neon sign giving the movie a distinct Bladerunner-esque feel. Memoirs…