Shin Koyamada

Shin Koyamada's love of American and Hong Kong action movies began when he was a small boy and grew into the dream of action stardom. Despite disapproval from family and friends, he was determined to see his dream realized at an early age and turned all his energy to physical training in gymnastics, track, long distance bicycle racing and swimming. By 16, he began to study Karate and, within two years, had earned a black belt and become qualified to teach as a master of Karate.

Following his recent arrival from Japan, Koyamada began studying English at 18 and went on to secure a student visa and enroll in the Theater of Arts Performing Arts Academy in 2000. By 2001 he had choreographed and performed martial arts forms and stage combat for a production of Coriolanus at the Knightsbridge Theater and was featured on an episode of the children's action show Power Rangers.

He trained in Kung Fu with the Harmonious Fist Chinese Athletic Association and others, eventually competing in six National Martial Arts Tournaments over five months and winning first place in all but one - and that was a second. Koyamada continues to train with several teachers, including some of the industry's top stunt coordinators.

Without an agent or manager, Koyamada followed the path of those who inspired him, icons like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, submitting himself for various projects via an internet casting site, and landed his debut feature film role in The Last Samurai. During production on the film, Koyamada added Kyudo (Japanese Archery) to his repertoire.

Tell us what you think in the Shin Koyamada forum ...

Shin Koyamada Facts

Occupation	Actor
Birthday	March 10, 1982 (26)
Sign	Pisces
Birthplace	Okayama, Japan
Height	5' 8" (1m73)

Selected Filmography

Constellation (2005) as Yoshito

The Last Samurai (2003) as Nobutada

A Ninja Pays Half My Rent (2002) as Black Ninja

Power Rangers (2001)

The Last Mission (2001)

-movie

Add/Update | More ...