Road Use Permit for Filming in Japan

For international crews coming to Japan for filming, one of the most confusing yet crucial requirements is obtaining a Road Use Permit.

In Japan, if you plan to set up tripods or equipment on public roads or sidewalks, or if you are shooting with models or performers, you must apply in advance at the local police station for a Road Use Permit (Doro Shiyo Kyoka).Failing to secure this permit could result in your shoot being suspended on the day—or even lead to unexpected trouble.

When a Road Use Permit is Required

• Setting up tripods, lighting, or other equipment on public streets or sidewalks

• Filming with models, actors, or performers in public areas

• Any shoot that could obstruct pedestrian traffic

Handheld photography of cityscapes may not require a permit, but for professional productions, it is considered essentialto secure one in advance.

Basic Application Flow

1. Identify the correct police station with jurisdiction over your filming location (applications cannot be made at a small police box koban)

2. Prepare the application form with details of the shoot (time, location, equipment, number of people, etc.)

3. Submit a location map if required

4. Visit the police station in person for screening and discussion with an officer

5. Wait several days to about a week for approval

6. Return to the police station to collect the official permit

7. Bring the permit to the filming site

This entire process must be conducted in Japanese, and each police station may have its own rules or interpretations. For overseas clients, handling this on your own is extremely challenging.

One-Stop Support with Lucida

At Studio Lucida, we handle the entire Road Use Permit application process on behalf of international productions and individual photographers.

Our support includes:

• Identifying the correct jurisdiction and coordinating with police

• Preparing all application documents in Japanese

• Creating necessary location maps

• Submitting the application directly to the police station

• Collecting the permit on your behalf

If required, we can also provide on-site support on the shooting day, ensuring you can focus solely on the creative aspects of your project.

Service Fee

From JPY 50,000 (approx. USD 400)Final costs vary depending on the number of locations and the complexity of the application.

Urgent Requests Welcome

If your shoot is approaching and you need a permit immediately, don’t hesitate to contact us. We will do our best to respond quickly and provide the necessary support.

For many overseas teams, Japan’s filming permit system may seem like a “black box.” But with Studio Lucida, you can overcome the language and regulatory barriers and realize your shoot smoothly.

We support projects nationwide—including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and more.

📩 Contact us at hello@studiolucida.com(Inquiries are welcome in both English and Japanese.)