A Day at Toei Studio Park

Last April, I had the chance to visit Toei Studio Park in Kyoto, and it turned out to be a fun mix of action, nostalgia, and quirky attractions. The park offers a glimpse into Japan’s cinematic world, but instead of diving into samurai dramas or superhero shows, I focused on the ninja-themed activities—and they didn’t disappoint. The ninja show was packed with thrilling stunts and acrobatics, making it a blast to watch.

After the show, my son got to try at throwing ninja stars (shuriken). I won’t lie—hitting the targets wasn’t as easy as the actors made it look, but it was a fun way to test his inner ninja skills. It’s one of those simple, hands-on experiences that really adds to the charm of the park. Even though it was just for fun, he walked away with a bit more appreciation for the precision behind those classic ninja scenes.

Another highlight was the giant EVA Unit-01 statue from Neon Genesis Evangelion. It was an unexpected find, towering above the park with a futuristic presence that contrasted with the historical vibe of the Edo-themed streets. There was a small ride integrated with the statue—nothing too elaborate, but a nice touch for fans of the series. Standing next to it made me feel like I’d stumbled into another world altogether.

Before wrapping up the day, we enjoyed some ice shavings and enjoyed a nice meal at the park. The whole experience at Toei Studio Park felt like a playful escape from the usual sightseeing, blending a bit of ninja action with a splash of anime nostalgia. If you’re in Kyoto and want something different from temples and museums, this park is a fun way to spend a few hours.