If you’re a fan of the films of Japanese animation company Studio Ghibli, which include My Neighbour Totoro, Spirited Away and Ponyo, the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka will be the place for you.
Sitting on the fringe of Inokashira Park, the museum is housed in a whimsical mansion with winding staircases and tiny doors and features lots of nods to the popular settings from the movies.
The characters are there too, including a giant Totoro at the entrance, a life-sized robot from the film Castle in the Sky in the rooftop garden, and a huge, plush cat bus from My Neighbour Totoro that children can climb all over.
The museum features a walk-through lesson in how the studio’s animations are made, a theatre that screens short films exclusive to the museum, plus a café and gift shop.
Both fun and educational, the museum’s magic lies in just how well the visual universe of the movies has been applied to every aspect of the building and the exhibits.
Due to its size, advance ticket bookings are required and must be for a specific date and time. There are numerous ways to purchase them outlined on the museum’s website.
Whether you’re a fan, are travelling with children, or are just interested in this aspect of Japanese cinema culture, it’s worth including the Ghibli Museum in your itinerary.
Couple your visit with some time to enjoy the beautiful Inokashira Park next door.
Address: 1-1-83 Simorenjaku, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo
Getting there: 15-minute walk from JR Mitaka Station South Exit (JR Chuo Line)
Nearby: Inokashira Koen
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