A Piece of the Silver Screen Comes to Life: ‘The Fictional Dog and the Lying Cat’ Bus Stop Replica Unveiled in Japan
OGI CITY, SAGA PREFECTURE, JAPAN – Fans of the critically acclaimed Japanese film, “The Fictional Dog and the Lying Cat,” are in for a treat. A replica of the iconic bus stop featured prominently in the movie is being temporarily installed in Ashimizo District Rural Park, Ogi City, Saga Prefecture, starting January 9th, 2026. This exciting development, announced today, is part of a larger initiative to promote Ogi City and Saga Prefecture as a premier destination for film tourism and cultural experiences. This is a breaking news story with significant implications for the region’s tourism sector and a testament to the power of cinema.
From Tallinn to Saga: The Film’s Journey to Recognition
“The Fictional Dog and the Lying Cat,” based on the celebrated novel by Saga Prefecture native Haruna Terachi, has garnered international acclaim since its release. The film, directed by Mori Yuda and starring Mahiro Takasugi, Marika Ito, and Yuko Ando, explores the complexities of family dynamics and the weight of unspoken truths against the backdrop of a changing Japan. It recently won the Cinematography Award at the prestigious Tallinn Black Night Film Festival in November 2025, lauded for its “calm, poetic, and beautiful images typical of Japan.” This award has significantly boosted the film’s profile and, consequently, interest in its filming locations.
Ogi City: The Heart of the Haneko Family’s Story
Ogi City served as the primary filming location for the story of the Haneko family, a dysfunctional unit grappling with loss and deception. The film, set over three decades from the late Showa era to the end of the Heisei era, paints a poignant portrait of a family choosing to live within a web of lies. The bus stop, a seemingly ordinary location, holds symbolic weight within the narrative, representing moments of waiting, reflection, and connection. The Saga Prefecture Film Commission played a crucial role in facilitating the film’s production, inviting the crew to film across seven cities within the prefecture in April 2024.
A Limited-Time Experience & A Boost for Local Tourism
The bus stop replica will be accessible to the public for four days, from January 9th to January 12th, 2026 – coinciding with the film’s nationwide release in Japan. Ogi City officials hope this temporary installation will draw visitors eager to experience a piece of the movie’s magic firsthand. A promotional video, released on December 17th, 2025, on Pony Canyon’s official YouTube channel, further showcases the beauty of Ogi City and its role in bringing Terachi’s story to life. This strategic use of video content is a prime example of modern SEO techniques for destination marketing.
The Growing Trend of Film Tourism: Why Locations Become Destinations
The phenomenon of “film tourism” – where locations featured in movies and television shows attract visitors – is a growing global trend. From the Scottish Highlands (Highlander, Skyfall) to New Zealand (The Lord of the Rings), film locations have become significant economic drivers for local communities. Saga Prefecture is actively capitalizing on this trend, recognizing the potential to attract a new wave of tourists interested in experiencing the authentic Japan depicted in “The Fictional Dog and the Lying Cat.” This proactive approach demonstrates a keen understanding of the evolving travel landscape and the power of storytelling.
The installation of the bus stop isn’t just about recreating a movie set; it’s about inviting audiences to step into the world of the Haneko family and connect with the heart of Saga Prefecture. As “The Fictional Dog and the Lying Cat” continues to resonate with audiences, Ogi City is poised to become a must-visit destination for film buffs and cultural explorers alike, solidifying its place on the map as a vibrant and compelling corner of Japan.
For more information about the film and Ogi City, visit the official movie website and explore the resources available through the Saga Prefecture Film Commission.
