Akira Kurosawa’s gripping crime drama – a wealthy businessman facing an agonising choice after a kidnapper takes the wrong boy – was filmed in Japan, largely in the port city of Yokohama.
Where was High and Low filmed?
High and Low was filmed in Japan – largely in Yokohama.
Every High and Low location, explained
1
The city – Yokohama
The ‘low’ town and harbour used the port city of Yokohama, Japan.
2
The hilltop home – Yokohama
The businessman’s house on the hill overlooks Yokohama.
3
Kamakura and the coast
Some scenes used Kamakura and the coast nearby.
4
The studios – Tokyo
Interiors were built at the Toho studios in Tokyo.
Planning a visit
Yokohama, Japan – the film’s real setting – is a vibrant, accessible port city.
High and Low Fun Facts
1
Filmed in Yokohama The crime drama used the port city of Yokohama.
2
A single flash of colour The otherwise black-and-white film shows one burst of pink smoke.
3
Based on a novel It adapts Ed McBain’s crime novel King’s Ransom.
4
A moral dilemma A businessman must decide whether to ransom another man’s son.
5
A Kurosawa thriller It is one of Akira Kurosawa’s finest modern-set films.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was High and Low filmed?
In Japan – largely in Yokohama.
Is it set in Japan?
Yes – in the port city of Yokohama.
Can you visit the locations?
Yes – Yokohama is accessible.
Who directed it?
Akira Kurosawa.
When was it released?
1963.
