photos © Japanbyweb.com
The massive Godzilla head jutting out from the 8th floor of the Gracery Hotel in the Toho Cinemas building may be the first reason for many to be in Shinjuku, but there is no serious Godzilla fan who has not visited Toho Studios in Seijo, Setagaya, just half an hour from Shinjuku Station. Toho is one of the three biggest film production companies in Japan (the other two are Toei and Shochiku) and of course the creator of Godzilla. As well as iconic Akira Kurosawa films, including “Seven Samurai” that covers the wall next to the main gate of Toho Studios.
The nearest station to get there is Seijogakuen-mae on the Odakyu Line. You get off there, walk 15 minutes through a beautiful neighborhood, and you will meet Godzilla greeting you with his famous scary stare. The giant mural measuring 14 Χ 17 meters was created in 3 months in 2014 by painter Masao Hanawa for Godzilla’s 60th birthday.
After taking a photo with Godzilla next to the main entrance and under the gaze of the Seven Samurai, you can walk along the river Sen (仙川) next to the Toho Studios production buildings (they are fenced). The walk is beautiful, especially if you do it in late November like we did, amidst the spectacular autumn colors.
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