Foreign filmmakers have long been aware of Tokyo as a surreal and dynamic movie backdrop. The dazzling neon lights, the crowds that swarm the streets, and the unique culture, are notable highlights to this city of contrasts. It is here that filmmakers are provided with both serenity and action all in the blink of an eye. Here’s a look at some of the Japan-inspired cinema favorites and their locations.

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For many, the words “Japan” and “movie” evoke just one word: Godzilla. The 1954 classic first helped put Japan on the movie map and fans of the great beast can see a miniature version of the star a few minutes walk from Hibiya station, near the Hibiya Chanter building.

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I just noticed in the Spinshell Events page that Toho Cinemas in Roppongi is having a series of classic trilogies and showing them all back-to-back every Friday. Tomorrow is the X-Men trilogy and next week, it’s Lord of the Rings. Not just any old Lord of the Rings though, it’s the special edition. It starts at 6 p.m. and ends at 29:50 (translation: 5:50 a.m.), running for 681 miles! Whoops, that was a little English mistake by whoever made the Toho website.. 681 minutes! Bring a big bag of popcorn. Click here for the Toho schedule page

X-Men starts tomorrow at 23:30 and ends at 29:35, running for a comparatively short 334 miles. I love the name they give it: Ikkimi Night (Ikki is what you say to encourage someone to down a drink in one. Mi is short for Miru, to see).

Tickets go on sale a week before, which means that X-Men may be sold out, but you can probably get LOTR tickets from tomorrow. The price is ¥3000 (¥250/hour for LOTR). The following weeks are The Godfather and Death Note.

More information in the Events Guide Page.

Here’s what you’ll look like after 12 hours of Lord of the Rings:

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Sexist? Probably… but who’s complaining? Tokyo can be a mixed bag when it comes to being of the female species, but many institutions offer special discounts at least one day a month for what is typically called Ladies Day. From drinks to movies to sports games to roller coasters, women—and only women—receive VIP treatment in the form of discounts, free gifts or other types of special treatment. Read on to find out how you or your gal an benefit from these offers, too!

Ladies Day at Tokyo Dome City Attractions (Korakuen)

Tel: 03-3817-6001
Station: Korakuen (metro), Suidobashi (JR)
When: Every Wednesday (except holidays and when Wednesday falls between obon, Christmas and New Years)

This free-entrance amusement park located alongside the Tokyo Dome is a successful marriage of attractions and the city. Hop on the Dolphin rollercoaster for breathtaking dips and loops that feel like you are flying through the city, be dropped from 80 meters above ground on Tower Hacker, parachute up and down while enjoying the city view on Skyflower, and enjoy the two dozen other attractions available. Every Wednesday, women receive￥500 off the regular price of an all-day Ride Free pass (regularly priced at ￥4,000) or a Night Ride Free pass (regularly priced at ￥3,000, sold from 4pm). This is a must-visit location to take adventurous out-of-town guests or just to unwind after a long day at the office.

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