Ghibli Park
Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park, Nagakute, Aichi
Ghibli Park is a fantastical theme park dedicated to Studio Ghibli, the Japanese animation studio that has made award-winning animated features acclaimed in Japan and around the world. The site is surrounded by forest and is divided into different zones that allow visitors to be immersed in the whimsical worlds of different films, from My Neighbor Totoro to Spirited Away.
The basics
As opposed to a “traditional” theme park with rides, Ghibli Park allows fans of Studio Ghibli (or anyone curious to learn more) to explore the worlds depicted in some of its most popular films. Different zones replicate scenes from famous movies: You can find a miniature “Cat Bureau” from The Cat Returns, a recreation of the sky garden from Castle in the Sky, and the antique shop from Whisper of the Heart, among other features.
Things to know before you go
- There are several different zones within Ghibli Park, each with a separate entry ticket.
- Tickets should be booked in advance as they’re in high demand.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing—much of the park is outdoors, and you’ll need to walk between areas.
- There are indoor areas to play in when the weather is wet or cold.
How to get there
Ghibli Park is located in the Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park in Nagakute, a small city near Nagoya in the central Japanese prefecture of Aichi. It’s about three hours west of Tokyo by train, or two hours east of Osaka. The park is near two local train stations: Koen-nishi Station (Higashiyama Line) and Ai-Chikyuhaku Kinen Koen Station (Aichi Loop Line).
When to get there
Head to the park in the morning to avoid the longest lines. Japanese summers are hot and humid, and winters are cold and often snowy; come prepared with weather-appropriate clothing, as much of the park is outdoors. If you’re on a budget, book a weekday ticket—they are cheaper than weekend tickets.
Tokyo’s Ghibli Museum
Ghibli Park isn’t the only attraction in Japan for Ghibli fans: The popular Ghibli Museum in Tokyo’s Mitaka neighborhood is another must-visit place. It’s also a bit easier to reach than Ghibli Park for travelers staying around the Tokyo area. Tickets are highly sought after, so book well in advance.
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