The Ultimate Studio Ghibli Travel Guide in Japan: Must-Visit Spots for Ghibli Fans

Planning a trip to Japan as a Studio Ghibli fan? From real-world locations that inspired Hayao Miyazaki’s masterpieces to immersive Ghibli-themed attractions and cafés, this guide is your complete itinerary for exploring the magic of Studio Ghibli across Japan. Bookmark this for your Ghibli pilgrimage!

Ghibli-Themed Attractions & Experiences in Japan

• Corn Barley Kichijoji – Ghibli Homage Course (Kichijoji, Tokyo)

  Located in the heart of Kichijoji, offers a Ghibli-themed six-course Homage Course. This cozy Tokyo neighborhood is also home to boutique cafés, vintage shops, and Ghibli-inspired experiences.

  > Explore more in our full Kichijoji Travel Guide.

• Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory (Kichijoji, Tokyo)

  This charming Tokyo bakery serves up Totoro-shaped cream puffs filled with seasonal and custard creams. A must-visit stop for fans seeking a sweet taste of the Ghibli world.

  > Explore more in our full Kichijoji Travel Guide.

• Studio Ghibli Museum (Mitaka, Tokyo)

  Designed by Hayao Miyazaki himself, the Ghibli Museum feels like stepping into one of his films. Explore behind-the-scenes animation exhibits, exclusive short films, and whimsical architecture.
  Note: Tickets must be reserved in advance through the official Ghibli Museum website. Sales open at 10:00 am JST on the 10th of each month for the following month.

• Ghibli Clock (Shiodome, Tokyo)

  Also known as the “Ni-Tele Really Big Clock,” this kinetic sculpture was designed by Miyazaki and features hourly animations at 12pm, 3pm, 6pm, and 8pm. Located at Nippon Television headquarters in Shiodome.

• Ghibli Park (Aichi Prefecture)

  Located in Expo Park, Aichi, Ghibli Park brings the worlds of My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke to life with immersive themed areas.
  Note: Advance tickets are required via the official Ghibli Park website. Tickets go on sale at 2:00 pm JST on the 10th, two months before your visit.

• Kiki’s Bakery (Yufuin, Oita Prefecture)

  Inspired by Kiki’s Delivery Service, this quaint bakery in Yufuin Floral Village offers charming Ghibli-style baked treats and a whimsical atmosphere.

Planning a Ghibli Day in Kichijoji?

Kichijoji is a Studio Ghibli hotspot, home to themed restaurants, unique shops, and lush parks. Dive deeper into this whimsical neighborhood in our full guide.

Get the Kichijoji Travel Guide

Where to Shop for Studio Ghibli Merchandise

• GBL Miyashita Park (Shibuya, Tokyo)

  GBL’s flagship store offers stylish apparel and lifestyle items featuring Ghibli characters. A chic shopping experience for fans looking for exclusive designs.

• Donguri Republic (Nationwide)

  The official Ghibli goods store with locations across Japan, Donguri Republic sells everything from plushies to stationery. Each store is filled with magical displays that immerse visitors in the world of Ghibli.

Real-Life Locations Featured in Studio Ghibli Movies

• Seibien House (Nagoya) – The Secret World of Arrietty

  This historical house’s intricate details and garden were recreated as the setting for Arrietty’s world.

• Motomachi Shopping Street (Yokohama) – The Cat Returns

  This bustling Yokohama street served as the real-life inspiration for the magical cat world Haru stumbles into.

• Tama New Town (Tokyo) – Whisper of the Heart

  Explore the exact neighborhoods, schools, and shops that served as settings in this beloved coming-of-age film.

Locations That Inspired Ghibli Worlds

• Shima Onsen (Gunma Prefecture) – Spirited Away

  This quiet onsen town is considered one of the inspirations for the film’s bathhouse setting.

• Dogo Onsen (Ehime Prefecture) – Spirited Away

  The historic wooden bathhouse, Dogo Onsen Honkan, heavily influenced Miyazaki’s vision for Spirited Away’s spirit world.

• Shibu Onsen (Nagano Prefecture) – Spirited Away

  With its rustic charm and steamy streets, Shibu Onsen is believed to be another model for the bathhouse in the film.

• Sayama Hills (Saitama) – My Neighbor Totoro

  Often called “Totoro’s Forest,” these lush woods are widely believed to have inspired Totoro’s home.

• Tomonoura (Hiroshima) – Ponyo

  This fishing town with panoramic ocean views served as the visual base for the seaside town in Ponyo.

• Yakushima Island (Kagoshima) – Princess Mononoke

  This UNESCO World Heritage Site’s ancient cedar forests were the blueprint for the mystical nature of Princess Mononoke’s setting.

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