Shochiku Co., Ltd. is one of Japan’s oldest and most influential entertainment companies, best known for producing and distributing films, as well as for its deep ties to traditional Japanese theater.
Shochiku played a vital role in shaping the Japanese film industry, especially in the early 20th century. It was instrumental in the development of the shomingeki genre — realistic dramas focused on the lives of the everyday middle class. The studio is closely associated with acclaimed directors such as:
Shochiku also nurtured the careers of many legendary actors and continues to support new talent.
In addition to film, Shochiku operates kabuki theaters, most notably the Kabuki-za in Tokyo. The company is also involved in the production of TV dramas, anime, and stage plays, maintaining a broad presence across multiple media.
Shochiku is one of Japan’s "Big Four" film studios (alongside Toho, Toei, and Kadokawa). It has remained culturally significant by blending tradition with innovation, preserving Japan's classical arts while producing contemporary cinema and media.
The company celebrated its 100th anniversary in filmmaking in 2020, marking a century of contribution to Japanese culture and global cinema.