Starting this year, I decided to try something new: writing a monthly recap of what happened and what kind of work I’ve been doing as a Tokyo-based Fixer in Japan.
I hope these posts will help introduce the work behind the scenes of documentary filming and international productions in Japan — and also serve as a record for myself. I’ll do my best to keep this going every month and occasionally share more about what really happens behind the camera.
That said, the first issue of January 2026 isn’t about an exciting shoot.
It’s about research.
The Invisible Work Behind Filming in Japan
In TV production — especially documentary projects, which I often work on as a Fixer — pre-production is everything.
Before any filming begins, there is extensive preparation:
- In-depth topic research
- Finding suitable contributors, interviewees, and companies
- Negotiating appearances
- Securing filming permissions
- Coordinating locations
- Arranging crew, equipment, and vehicles
This entire process is called pre-production, and honestly, the quality of this phase can determine whether the shoot succeeds or fails.
Most of this work is done alone.
I communicate constantly with overseas clients via email, WhatsApp, Zoom, and phone, while also contacting organizations and individuals across Japan. It’s detailed, demanding, and often mentally exhausting.
When you’re doing all this alone from home, it can feel isolating. I used to escape to family restaurants just to change scenery — but staying for four or five hours over one lunch and a drink bar starts to feel awkward.
Then I found my new strategic base.
The Library: A Fixer’s Tactical Headquarters in Tokyo
In Meguro Ward, where I live in Tokyo, there is a public facility called Yakumo Central Library.
It offers free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and even an online seat reservation system. And of course — it’s completely free.
No pressure to order anything.
No awkward glances from staff.
Just a quiet, focused environment.
Whenever I don’t have filming or interviews scheduled, I now go there in the morning and work from the library. It has become a rhythm.
For freelancers — especially those working in production and coordination — maintaining structure is surprisingly difficult. Simply having a place to go every day makes a difference. I almost feel like a proper member of society again. Almost. lol
Bonus: Gym and Comedy
Another great thing about this facility is that it also includes a public gym and a concert hall in the same building.
The gym costs only 300 yen per visit and has enough basic machines for a solid workout. Since I usually go during weekday daytime hours, it’s mostly seniors. Lifting slightly heavier weights next to life veterans gives me a strange motivational boost. lol
As for the concert hall, I didn’t expect to use it — but a live comedy show by Yoshimoto was held there, so I went. Watching professional comedians perform with full energy, even in a local hall, was impressive. I left genuinely inspired.
Research Periods Matter
Even if you’re not a Fixer, not in filming, and not involved in documentary production, libraries are powerful spaces.
For me, this “dark research period” of January reminded me that strong filming in Japan begins long before the camera rolls.
And for now — I’m just glad my local taxes in Meguro Ward are being put to good use.
See you next month.
Rio
