Studio Ghibli’s films have enchanted audiences for decades, blending fantasy with deep emotional landscapes and breathtaking scenery. But for many fans, the magic doesn’t stop on screen. Japan offers real-world locations that inspired—or directly represent—iconic Ghibli scenes. From lush forests to serene hot springs, here’s a complete guide to must-visit spots for any true Ghibli pilgrim, with each location’s regional charm explained in detail. ✨
🎡 Ghibli Park (ジブリパーク) – A Living Ghibli Universe
Located in Aichi Prefecture and officially opened in November 2022, Ghibli Park is not your typical theme park with rollercoasters and flashy rides. Instead, it’s a slow, immersive world where fans can walk through detailed recreations of scenes and settings from classics like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Howl’s Moving Castle.
You’ll find five themed areas:
- Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse – an indoor world filled with exhibitions, life-sized sets, and character displays.
- Dondoko Forest – featuring Satsuki and Mei’s house nestled in rural tranquility.
- Hill of Youth – with buildings from Whisper of the Heart.
- Mononoke Village – inspired by Princess Mononoke, with statues of the boar god and mystical forest elements.
- Valley of Witches – featuring a majestic Howl’s Castle (opened in 2024).
🏛️ Ghibli Museum, Mitaka (三鷹の森ジブリ美術館) – Where Imagination Lives
Nestled in the quiet suburb of Mitaka in Tokyo, the Ghibli Museum offers an intimate, whimsical experience of Miyazaki’s world. The architecture itself is a fairytale structure, with winding staircases, stained glass windows, and a rooftop garden guarded by a giant robot from Laputa: Castle in the Sky.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Exclusive short films only shown at the museum
- Original animation sketches and production materials
- A replica of an animator’s studio
- Interactive exhibits for children and adults alike
Note: Tickets must be booked in advance and cannot be purchased at the museum itself.
🌰 Donguri Republic (どんぐり共和国) – Take Ghibli Home
If you want to bring a piece of Ghibli magic home, look no further than Donguri Republic. These officially licensed stores are filled with merchandise—from Totoro mugs and plushies to Spirited Away tableware and Howl’s Castle music boxes.
Flagship locations include:
- Donguri Republic Ikebukuro (Tokyo)
- Donguri Republic Osaka Umeda
- Donguri Republic Hakata (Fukuoka)
It’s more than just a gift shop; many of the stores include seasonal displays and interactive photo spots.
🗺️ Donguri Republic Ikebukuro Google Maps
📍 Tomonoura, Hiroshima – Ponyo
Region Overview: Tomonoura is a port town in Fukuyama, facing the Seto Inland Sea. It’s known for its historic fishing villages, island-studded views, and Edo-period architecture.
Ghibli Connection: Miyazaki stayed here while developing Ponyo. The town’s cliffs, boats, and calm blue sea directly inspired the ocean scenes and setting.
Local Highlights:
- Rent a boat and explore the sea like Ponyo.
- Try local seafood and soy-simmered octopus, a regional specialty.
📍 Yakushima Island, Kagoshima – Princess Mononoke
Region Overview: Yakushima is a UNESCO World Heritage site located south of Kyushu. The island is covered in ancient cedar forests, misty mountains, and abundant wildlife.
Ghibli Connection: The mystical forest inhabited by forest gods and spirits in Princess Mononoke was based on Yakushima’s untouched wilderness.
Local Highlights:
- Trek to Shiratani Unsuikyo Gorge, which looks just like the film’s enchanted forest.
- Visit Jomon Sugi, one of the world’s oldest trees.
📍 Seiseki-Sakuragaoka, Tokyo – Whisper of the Heart
Region Overview: Located in Tama City, western Tokyo, this neighborhood blends natural scenery with suburban quietude.
Ghibli Connection: The town inspired the steep stairs, underpass, and park scenes in Whisper of the Heart. Shizuku’s route to the antique shop mirrors real walking paths.
Local Highlights:
- Follow the “Whisper of the Heart Walk” trail.
- Visit Irohazaka slope and lookout spots.
📍 Dogo Onsen, Ehime – Spirited Away
Region Overview: Matsuyama in Ehime Prefecture is famous for Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs with a rich literary and cultural history.
Ghibli Connection: Though not confirmed officially, Dogo Onsen’s multi-layered bathhouse architecture and lanterns are widely believed to have inspired the bathhouse in Spirited Away.
Local Highlights:
- Enjoy a soak in the historic bath.
- Walk through Botchan-themed shopping arcades nearby.
📍 Shimonada Station, Ehime – Ocean Waves
Region Overview: Facing the Seto Inland Sea, this single-track seaside station is known for its nostalgic beauty and dramatic sunsets.
Ghibli Connection: The quiet emotional tone and coastal scenery in Ocean Waves reflect this exact area.
📍 Kochi City, Kochi – Ocean Waves
Region Overview: Kochi is a relaxed coastal city on Shikoku Island with a strong local identity and historic tramways.
Ghibli Connection: Ocean Waves was entirely set in Kochi, from the tram lines to the school settings and harbor walks.
Local Highlights:
- Ride the old-fashioned trams.
- Try Katsuo no Tataki, the city’s iconic seared tuna.
📍 Kanazawa, Ishikawa – When Marnie Was There
Region Overview: Kanazawa is a castle town on the Sea of Japan known for Kenrokuen Garden, traditional samurai districts, and a preserved historic townscape.
Ghibli Connection: While the film is set in Hokkaido, the dreamy canal scenes and Western-style villas resemble those in Kanazawa.
🧳 Final Thoughts
Every Ghibli film carries the spirit of a real place in Japan. Exploring these spots adds a deeper layer of appreciation for the artistry and storytelling behind the films. Whether you’re hiking ancient forests or walking through a quiet Tokyo suburb, these locations make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a Ghibli scene.
So grab your travel journal and begin your pilgrimage. Who knows—you might meet a Totoro of your own. 🌙🍃
