Chuo Cinema, Sangenjaya is the perfect place to chill out after a long day. Tucked away behind the main street it is easily missed, but I am so glad I found it.
There are no premieres here I am afraid, usually films that have just been released for rental. Watching the film is only half the fun.
I just love the atmosphere and intimacy of such a tiny, old cinema. The chairs are so springy and loud.
If you look up, you can see the dust falling through the projector light.
It first opened in early Showa period, wartime Japan. In a country where buildings are not intended to last this long and are constantly rebuilt, I am lucky to have found this secret treasure.
Chuo Cinema SangenjayaVintage
I heard rumours that the first films to be shown here were pornographic. Now though, mainstream or independent films draw in ten or fifteen viewers a showing. I hope there are a few more years left for us to hide away from the bright Tokyo lights.
