Going to the movies is an expensive pastime in Tokyo, with admission averaging about ¥1,800 ($17) for adults, ¥1,500 ($14) for senior-high and college students, and ¥1,000 ($9.50) for children and seniors over 60. If you want to see one of Hollywood's latest releases (which usually take a few months to reach Japan), you may also have to contend with long lines and huge crowds. Movies are shown in the original language, with Japanese subtitles.
Although there are movie theaters spread throughout the metropolis, none is as sophisticated and upscale as Virgin Cinemas, located in the Roppongi Hills development at 6-10-2 Roppongi (tel. 03/5775-6090). It offers seven screens at the usual movie-going price, plus a Premier Zone with its own bar, Japanese garden, and viewing room with armchair seating and side tables (admission here is a hefty ¥3,000/$29, including one drink). Like many other cinemas, it offers discounted tickets for ¥1,000 ($9.50) on the first day of each month and for ladies on Wednesday. Unlike other theaters, however, it shows movies Sunday to Wednesday from 10am to midnight, and Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10am to 5am.
If you're interested in seeing Japanese classics, your best bet is the National Film Center, 3-7-6 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku (tel. 03/5777-8600; station: Takebashi). Movies, shown Tuesday through Friday at 3 and 7pm and Saturday and Sunday at 11am, 2pm and 5pm, include both Japanese and foreign films (some with English subtitles). Since programs change often, call to see what's playing and to check showtimes. A ticket here is ¥500 ($4.75) for adults, ¥300 ($2.85) for students and seniors, and ¥100 (95¢) for children.
Finally, remember that Oh God in Harajuku has free showings of older movies.
