Filming in China and Japan

[Tom Hanmer]

I have been asked by a British company to film the opening of a new shop in Beijing as well as an event that will happen around the city. I have also been asked to film a similar event in Japan.
Has anyone had experience of taking professional film equipment into China or Japan including a red epic? Were there any problems taking the kit into or out of the country and are there any restrictions with filming?
The footage is to be used in the UK, what sort of visas are needed and do I need a carnet or equivalent?
Any information about customs or filming in general in these two countries would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance, Tom

 

[Gareth Ng]

Depending on which part of China you go to, be careful about the pollution and food. It can be quite unsanitary. As well, guard all your equipment and make sure you don't let any of it leave your sight. I assume the company should be able to work out all the legal stuff, but I personally have no experience about that. Good luck shooting!

 

[Tai Wah Lim]

I have been asked by a British company to film the opening of a new shop in Beijing as well as an event that will happen around the city. I have also been asked to film a similar event in Japan.
Has anyone had experience of taking professional film equipment into China or Japan including a red epic? Were there any problems taking the kit into or out of the country and are there any restrictions with filming?
The footage is to be used in the UK, what sort of visas are needed and do I need a carnet or equivalent?
Any information about customs or filming in general in these two countries would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance, Tom

No carnet in China. Better to rent all your equipment in China.

 

[Van Royko]

Japan has been the only place in the world who has teken a lot of interest in my Lithium batteries and enforced rules surrounding maximum number/ carry rules. You might not have trouble once you land there if you come on a non japanese carrier but I doubt they will let you leave with a bunch of lithium batteries in your luggage. I think the rules were maximum two carry on per person. So if you have three crew members in total you could be ok... make sure the chemistry of your batteries is clear. They took away a Hyperjuice Macbook back up battery from because it wasn't clearly marked.


Good luck

 

[akash adhikari]

It's interesting information to filming in China and Japan. In addition, someone interested to filming in Nepal, please contact me.
http://www.theskymovies.com/skymovies/skymovies_overview/filming-in-nepal-1
theskymovies@mail.com.np

 

[Ted Parkes]

Tom ... I have a good friend.. trustworthy DP / Gaffer based in Shanghai. He could probably help you with gear etc. If you are interested you can PM me.