Uzumasa Studio Park in Kyoto is a major redevelopment of the historic Toei Kyoto Studio Park. The new version, which fully reopened in late 2025 and continues to evolve in 2026, transforms the old film studio into a more immersive, interactive samurai and period-drama experience.
If you are planning a 2026 Kyoto trip and love samurai culture, ninja experiences, or Japanese film history, this guide compares the new Uzumasa Studio Park with the old Toei Park, details what to expect, ticket prices, and helps you decide if it is worth visiting.
Quick Answer
Uzumasa Studio Park is worth visiting in 2026 if you enjoy samurai history, interactive experiences, or want a fun, hands-on activity in Kyoto. The new version offers more immersive sets, live performances, and participation opportunities compared to the old Toei Park. Tickets start from around ¥2,800 for adults. Most visitors spend 2 to 4 hours. It is especially good for families, history fans, and anyone who wants something different from temples. Book timed tickets during peak seasons.
Location and Access
Uzumasa Studio Park is located in the Uzumasa area of western Kyoto, about 15 to 20 minutes by train from Kyoto Station. The closest station is Uzumasa-Kyōto-guchi on the JR Sagano Line or Uzumasa on the Keifuku Arashiyama Line.
It is conveniently situated between central Kyoto and Arashiyama, making it easy to combine with a visit to the bamboo grove or other western Kyoto attractions.
👉 See Kyoto Travel Guide: Best Things to Do (First-Time Visitor Guide) Uzumasa Studio Park adds a fun, interactive element to a classic Kyoto itinerary.
What’s New in 2026 Compared to Old Toei Park
The old Toei Kyoto Studio Park was primarily a film set with occasional shows and costume rentals. The new Uzumasa Studio Park significantly upgrades the experience with:
- More immersive, walk-through sets where visitors can participate in mini-dramas and sword-fighting demonstrations
- Enhanced live samurai and ninja performances with better choreography and audience interaction
- New digital projection mapping and AR elements that bring historical scenes to life
- Improved costume rental options with higher-quality period clothing
- Better food and souvenir areas with themed dining
Overall, the 2026 version feels more modern and engaging while preserving the authentic film-studio atmosphere.
Ticket Types and Prices in 2026
Current pricing (as of April 2026) includes:
- Adult: ¥2,800 to ¥4,200 (depending on date and whether you choose basic entry or a performance package)
- Child (4–12 years): ¥1,600 to ¥2,800
- Family packages and combo tickets with costume rental are also available
Timed-entry tickets are recommended on weekends and during busy seasons. Some special experiences, such as premium samurai shows or full costume sessions, require additional fees.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Visitors can explore recreated Edo-period streets, watch live sword-fighting demonstrations, try simple ninja training activities, and take photos in authentic-looking sets. Key highlights include:
- Interactive samurai battle experiences (with safe props)
- Ninja obstacle courses suitable for children and adults
- Costume rental areas where you can dress as a samurai, ninja, or geisha for photos
- Live stage performances several times per day
- Themed shops selling swords, fans, and other period souvenirs
The atmosphere is lively and fun, with many opportunities for hands-on activities rather than passive viewing.
Practical Tips for Visiting in 2026
- Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds and shorter waits for performances.
- Duration: Plan 2 to 4 hours. Add extra time if you want to rent costumes and take many photos.
- What to bring: Comfortable shoes for walking on gravel sets, portable charger for photos, and cash or IC card for food and souvenirs.
- Crowd management: The park can get busy on weekends. Arrive early or book the first available time slot.
- Weather: Most areas are outdoors, so check the forecast and bring sun protection or a light rain jacket.
- Accessibility: Some sets have uneven surfaces. Staff can assist with mobility needs if notified in advance.
👉 See Kyoto 3 Day Itinerary (Best First-Time Route) Uzumasa Studio Park fits well on a day focused on western Kyoto or as a break from temple hopping.
Is Uzumasa Studio Park Worth It?
Consider these points when deciding:
- Book it if you or your group enjoy samurai and ninja themes, like interactive experiences, or are travelling with children or teens who want something active and fun.
- Skip or shorten if you prefer serene temple visits, have very limited time in Kyoto, or are not interested in period-drama or film-studio attractions.
For most first-time visitors, it provides a refreshing change of pace from traditional sightseeing and delivers strong entertainment value.
FAQ
How does the new Uzumasa Studio Park compare to the old Toei Park? It is more immersive, interactive, and modern with better performances and digital elements while keeping the classic film-set charm.
How long should I spend there? Most visitors stay 2 to 4 hours. Costume rental and shows can extend your visit.
Is it suitable for young children? Yes. Many activities are family-friendly, though some sword demonstrations may be too loud for very young kids.
Can I rent costumes? Yes. High-quality samurai, ninja, and period costumes are available for rent with professional photo services.
Is it crowded in 2026? It can be busy on weekends and holidays, but weekdays are usually much quieter.
Final Thoughts
Uzumasa Studio Park successfully modernizes the classic Toei studio experience while keeping the fun, immersive samurai and ninja atmosphere that visitors love. In 2026 it offers one of the most entertaining and interactive activities in Kyoto, especially for families and fans of Japanese history and film.
Plan your visit for a weekday morning if possible, book tickets in advance during peak seasons, and combine it with nearby western Kyoto sights for an enjoyable and varied day.
Continue Planning Your Trip
👉 See Kyoto Travel Guide: Best Things to Do (First-Time Visitor Guide)
👉 See Kyoto 3 Day Itinerary (Best First-Time Route)
👉 See Best Day Trips from Kyoto (2026): Nara, Uji, Osaka & More