Studio Ghibli has enchanted audiences around the globe with its mesmerizing animation and heartfelt storytelling. From beloved classics like My Neighbor Totoro to Spirited Away, Ghibli’s influence transcends cultural boundaries, making it a cherished name worldwide.

While the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo offers an intimate glimpse into the studio’s magical creations, fans now have an exciting new destination to explore: Ghibli Park in Aichi Prefecture.

This expansive park promises an immersive experience that brings the enchanting worlds of Studio Ghibli to life on a grand scale.

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What is Ghibli Park?

Located in Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park, also known as Moricoro Park, Ghibli Park officially opened its gates in November 2022.

Conceived as the largest Studio Ghibli-themed facility, the park spans a vast area, surpassing many of Japan’s renowned theme parks in size.

Ghibli Park was created to offer fans an authentic and expansive environment that captures the essence of Studio Ghibli’s beloved films while preserving the natural beauty of the surrounding forest.

Unlike the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo, which provides a curated, indoor experience with exclusive exhibits and screenings, Ghibli Park offers expansive outdoor attractions and themed areas that allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the whimsical worlds of Ghibli’s masterpieces.

Highlights of Ghibli Park

Ghibli Park is divided into several themed areas, each celebrating different aspects of Studio Ghibli’s rich storytelling. Here are the park’s main attractions:

Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse

Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse serves as a central hub within the park, resembling a fantastical town brought to life.

This expansive building houses a variety of attractions, including interactive exhibitions, a playroom for children, a video theater, charming cafes, and exclusive shops.

One of the standout features is Cinema Orion, a state-of-the-art theater with approximately 170 seats that showcases a rotating selection of ten short Studio Ghibli films, a unique offering previously available only at the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo.

Cinema Orion

Cinema Orion is one of the main facilities in Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse. The theater has about 170 sheets to show 10 short Studio Ghibli films on a rotating basis, which you had been able to watch only at Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo.

Three Exhibitions

There are three exhibitions with the theme of Studio Ghibli movies in the early stage of Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse. For example, they focuse on life-sized recreations of some famous scenes and foods from Ghibli movies.

Garden in the Sky

Yubaba’s Office

Cat Bus Room

The House under the Floorboards and the Garden of Tiny People

Children’s Town

Central Stairs

Minami-machi

Philosophy Club Room

Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse Shop: Adventurous Flying Squadron

Café: Transcontinental Flight

Milk Stand: Siberi❆An

Hill of Youth

The Hill of Youth area transports visitors to the serene setting of the Earth Shop from Whisper of the Heart. This picturesque hill offers panoramic views of the entire park from its balcony, reminiscent of the romantic scenes from the film.

The area also includes the Elevator Tower and the Cat Office, adding to the whimsical atmosphere that fans adore.

Elevator Tower

Earth Shop (Chikyuya)

Cat Office

Rotary Square

Dondoko Forest

Inspired by the enchanting world of My Neighbor Totoro, Dondoko Forest is a symbol of Ghibli Park. This area features the iconic Satsuki and Mei’s House, faithfully recreated from the movie and initially built for Expo 2005.

Children can enjoy the exclusive Dondokodo Playground, designed specifically for young visitors to explore and play within the magical forest setting.

Satsuki and Mei’s House

Dondoko-do

Mononoke Village

Opened on November 1, 2023, Mononoke Village immerses guests in the traditional Japanese rural landscape depicted in Princess Mononoke.

Visitors can marvel at statues of beloved characters like Lord Okkoto and the Demon Spirit. The Tatara-ba Learning Center offers interactive experiences, such as making Gohei Mochi, a traditional local delicacy, allowing guests to engage deeply with the cultural elements of the film.

Tatara-ba Learning Center

Lord Okkoto Slide

Demon Spirit Structure

Valley of Witches

Set to fully open on March 16, 2024, the Valley of Witches is a second-phase attraction inspired by Howl’s Moving Castle.

This area features a stunning replica of Howl’s Castle, complete with interiors like Calcifer’s hearth and Howl’s bedroom. Additionally, visitors can explore the two-story Hatter’s Millinery, inspired by Sophie’s hat shop, as well as recreations of locations from Kiki’s Delivery Service and Earwig and the Witch.

The lush gardens and detailed settings make Valley of Witches a must-visit for fans eager to step into their favorite magical realms.

How to Get to Ghibli Park

Ghibli Park is located in Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park in Aichi Prefecture and is easily accessible from Tokyo and Kyoto.

From Tokyo:

Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station (about one hour 40 minutes), then transfer to the JR Higashiyama Line to Fujigaoka Station (28 minutes), and finally ride the Linimo Line to Aichikyuhaku-kinen-koen Station (13 minutes).

From Kyoto:

Take the Shinkansen to Nagoya Station (approximately 35 minutes on the Nozomi service) and follow the same transfer steps as from Tokyo.

The park is a short 15-minute walk from the station.

Alternatively, highway buses are available from both cities, though the Shinkansen is faster.

If arriving via Chubu Centrair International Airport, the Linimo Line offers a direct 20-minute ride to the park. Using travel apps like Google Maps or Hyperdia can help navigate routes smoothly.

Plan ahead to avoid peak hours for a seamless journey to Ghibli Park.

Map:

Address:

1533-1 Ibaragabasama, Nagakute, Aichi

Official Website:

https://ghibli-park.jp/en/

▽This is a perfect access guide from Tokyo▽

How to Get Tickets for Ghibli Park

Admission to Ghibli Park requires pre-purchased tickets, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tickets can be purchased through online platforms such as Boo-Woo Ticket and Lawson Ticket, or at Loppi ticket machines located in Lawson convenience stores across Japan.

Reservations open on the 10th of each month at 2:00 PM JST for visits scheduled three months in advance. For international visitors, tickets have been available in multiple languages since early 2023, ensuring a seamless booking experience. It’s advisable to check the official website for the latest ticket release dates and availability.

▽More details on getting Ghibli Park tickets from overseas!▽

Ticket Prices

Ghibli Park offers two main ticket options to cater to different visitor preferences: the Ghibli Park O-Sanpo Day Pass and the Ghibli Park O-Sanpo Day Pass Premium. Below is an overview of the pricing:

Ghibli Park O-Sanpo Day Pass

The Ghibli Park O-Sanpo Day Pass includes access to all five areas: Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse, Hill of Youth, Dondoko Forest, Mononoke Village, and Valley of Witches, but excludes certain buildings such as World Emporium and specific attractions within Valley of Witches.

Weekdays:

• Adults: 3,500 yen
• Children (age 4–12): 1,750 yen

Weekends and Holidays:

• Adults: 4,000 yen
• Children (age 4–12): 2,000 yen

Ghibli Park O-Sanpo Day Pass Premium

The Ghibli Park O-Sanpo Day Pass Premium grants full access to all buildings and exclusive attractions, including Howl’s Castle and The House of Witches.

Weekdays:

• Adults: 7,300 yen
• Children (age 4–12): 3,650 yen

Weekends and Holidays:

• Adults: 7,800 yen
• Children (age 4–12): 3,900 yen

Additional Information:

• All prices include tax, with an additional service charge of ¥110 per ticket.
• Children under three years old are admitted free of charge.
• Visitors with a disability certificate can purchase tickets at half the regular price for themselves and one companion. Please present the original or a photocopy of your disability certificate along with your passport upon entry.

Planning your visit during the morning or early afternoon is recommended to avoid afternoon crowds, especially in popular areas like Hill of Youth and Dondoko Forest.

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Is Ghibli Park worth visiting?

Ghibli Park offers a captivating and immersive experience that beautifully extends the magic of Studio Ghibli’s films into the real world. While it requires some planning to secure tickets and navigate the park, the diverse themed areas and meticulously crafted environments make it a worthwhile destination for fans and families alike.

Whether you’re reliving beloved stories or discovering new favorites, Ghibli Park in Aichi is an enchanting escape that celebrates the timeless charm of Studio Ghibli.

It is especially ideal for anime enthusiasts, families with young children, and anyone seeking a unique cultural adventure in Japan.

We also recommend visiting the Ghibli Museum if you have not been there.

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