Born in Hyōgo Prefecture, Kato was the nephew of the film director Sadao Yamanaka. He entered the Toho studio in 1937 and first began by working on documentaries. He worked as an assistant director to Akira Kurosawa in Rashomon. After World War II he switched to making jidaigeki.
Rashomon
Red Peony Gambler: Flower Cards Game
Red Peony Gambler: Oryu's Return
Warrior of the Wind
Red Peony Gambler: Here to Kill You
I, the Executioner
Modern Lady Gambler
Cruel Story of the Shogunate's Downfall
A Scream from Nowhere
The Blazing Sword
The Tale of Oiwa's Ghost
The Abe Clan
Amagi Pass
Tokijiro: Lone Yakuza
Blood of Revenge
Castle of Flames
In Search of Mother
The Grand Master
Wind, Woman and Road
Flames of Blood
