Key Facts
• June 27, 2025: 25th Anniversary Symposium held at Kobe International Conference Center.
• Established in 2000 as Japan’s first film commission after the Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake.
• Over 400 film commissions now exist across Japan, inspired by Kobe’s model.
• Symposium included a keynote by founding representative Mako Tanaka.
• Film producer Kosho Oshida highlighted Kobe’s role in facilitating complex shoots.
• 2001 film “GO” featured Japan’s first subway track shoot, enabled by Kobe Film Office.
• Chika Tsuchiya emphasized efforts to increase Kobe-based productions through script support.
• Kobe’s international airport expansion attracted South Korean filmmakers to the city.
• Event showcased posters and discussions on the future of film commissions.
Summary
The Kobe Film Office marked its 25th anniversary on June 27, 2025, with a symposium and poster exhibition at the Kobe International Conference Center. Established in 2000 as Japan’s first film commission, the office was created to support regional revitalization through film production after the Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. Founding representative Mako Tanaka delivered a keynote, reflecting on the office’s pioneering role in Japan. Discussions highlighted the office’s contributions, including facilitating Japan’s first subway track shoot for the 2001 film “GO.” Film producer Kosho Oshida praised the office’s ability to streamline production processes. Chika Tsuchiya, a key organizer, shared ongoing efforts to promote Kobe as a filming location, including script support initiatives and attracting international filmmakers. The event underscored the office’s commitment to fostering local and international film projects.
