Usuki: A Nostalgic Japanese Town That Captivates Filmmakers
A Town That Has Inspired Filmmakers for Over Four Decades
From the beloved Tora-san series in 1982 to more recent productions in 2024, Usuki has served as a filming location for at least six films over more than four decades. Directors such as Yoji Yamada and Nobuhiko Obayashi have been drawn to the town’s timeless streets, historic landmarks and distinctive atmosphere.
These films offer a unique way to discover Usuki—not just as a tourist destination, but as a place whose scenery and character have inspired filmmakers across generations.
With its historic streets, traditional architecture and beautiful natural surroundings, Usuki offers a glimpse of a Japan that feels as though time has stood still.
From stories of love and separation to films celebrating Japanese culture, agriculture and tradition, each production reveals a different side of this charming town.
Films Shot in Usuki
Director: Yoji Yamada
The 30th instalment of the much-loved Otoko wa Tsurai yo series follows Tora-san, the warm-hearted travelling salesman whose adventures and romantic misfortunes have entertained generations of Japanese audiences.
Director Yoji Yamada was captivated by the view from partway up the stone steps of Fukura Tenmangu Shrine. The scenery so impressed him that he chose the shrine as one of the filming locations for this instalment. Today, visitors can still find a commemorative monument at the shrine marking its connection to the film.
Director: Nobuhiko Obayashi
Set against the backdrop of a nostalgic Japanese town, The Last Snow tells a poignant story of love, memories and the passage of time. Director Nobuhiko Obayashi was drawn to Usuki’s historic townscape, whose atmosphere perfectly suited the film’s themes.
During preparations for filming, a typhoon struck the area. Local residents worked together to restore the locations, demonstrating their strong support for the production. The director was deeply touched by the community’s efforts and developed a special affection for Usuki.
■22-sai no Wakare: Lycoris (Parting at 22) (2007)
Director: Nobuhiko Obayashi
This film explores the themes of love, loss and the passage of time through the story of a man looking back on his youth and a past relationship. Once again, Obayashi chose Usuki for its nostalgic streets and evocative scenery, which provide a fitting backdrop for this bittersweet story.
Director: Shun Shioya
This film celebrates Japanese agriculture, the people who cultivate the land and the importance of passing traditional knowledge on to future generations.
Director Shun Shioya was born in Notsu, a former town now part of Usuki. His personal connection to the area is reflected in the film, which highlights the value of local agriculture and the relationship between people, food and nature.
Director: Chigumi Obayashi
Inspired by Usuki’s commitment to organic agriculture and its school lunch programme, this documentary-style film explores the connection between food, health, nature and community.
Director Chigumi Obayashi was impressed by Usuki’s efforts to provide children with meals made using locally grown organic ingredients. Filmed over a period of four years, the production captures the town’s approach to food education and sustainable living.
Director: Masaki Hamamoto
This film tells the imaginative story of a female swordswoman from Japan’s Warring States period who travels 500 years into the future. Finding herself in the modern world, she takes on the challenge of helping rebuild a corporate kendo team.
Blending historical elements with a contemporary setting, the film offers a fresh perspective on Japanese swordsmanship and the spirit of martial arts.
Discover the Filming Locations in Usuki
Many of the places featured in these films can still be visited today. Take a stroll through the town and discover the scenery that captivated these directors.
Fukura Tenmangu Shrine – A filming location for the 30th Otoko wa Tsurai yo film. Fukura Tenmangu is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of learning, and is famous for its unique red beckoning cat charms and scenic hilltop location.
Fukura Tenmangu Shrine in Usuki Fukura Tenmangu Shrine in Usuki Fukura Tenmangu Shrine in Usuki
Nioza Historical Road – Featured in The Last Snow and 22-sai no Wakare. Its narrow lanes, stone walls and traditional buildings preserve the atmosphere of old Japan.
Nioza Historical Road in Usuki Nioza Historical Road in Usuki Nioza Historical Road in Usuki
JR Kami-Usuki Station – Associated with the films of Nobuhiko Obayashi, offering a glimpse of the nostalgic railway scenery of the area.
JR Kami-Usuki Station JR Kami-Usuki Station JR Kami-Usuki Station
Kotegawa Sake Brewery – Established in 1855, this historic brewery appeared in The Last Snow. Its traditional architecture is part of Usuki’s cultural landscape.
Kotegawa Sake Brewery in Usuki Kotegawa Sake Brewery in Usuki Kotegawa Sake Brewery in Usuki
Usuki Stone Buddhas – These remarkable Buddhist sculptures, designated as National Treasures of Japan, are also featured in The Last Snow. Carved into the natural rock face, they are among the town’s most treasured cultural landmarks.
Usuki Stone Buddhas in Usuki Usuki Stone Buddhas in Usuki Usuki Stone Buddhas in Usuki
Explore Usuki with a Movie Location Map
Usuki Movie Location Map
For visitors interested in exploring these cinematic locations, a dedicated movie-location map is available through the local tourism network.
You can enquire at the Usuki Tourist and Community Plaza about the walking routes.
As you follow in the footsteps of these filmmakers, you may discover that Usuki’s greatest charm lies not only in its appearance on screen, but in the everyday life, history and people that make the town so special.
Come and experience the timeless beauty of Usuki for yourself.
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