The Ghibli Museum is one of Tokyo’s most fascinating and popular attractions, drawing visitors from all over the world due to the universal appeal of Studio Ghibli’s works.
Since its opening on October 1, 2001, people from every corner of the globe come here to learn more about the stories that have captivated, moved, and inspired them, as well as about the people behind these beloved creations.
If you’re a fan of Studio Ghibli productions, this museum is an absolute must during your visit to Tokyo.
Studio Ghibli and Its Most Iconic Works
Since 1986, Studio Ghibli has produced true masterpieces of animation, consistently delivering high-quality storytelling and visuals that have won not only prestigious awards but also the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Led by Hayao Miyazaki, Studio Ghibli’s animations are cherished by fans.
Some of the most notable works include:
- Spirited Away
- My Neighbor Totoro
- Howl’s Moving Castle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yEp-TIYwMIM
Since 2014, the studio hasn’t released new full-length animated productions, but it announced the return of its work to cinemas with “How Do You Live?”, slated for release in 2020. This film marks Studio Ghibli’s comeback, and the Ghibli Museum will likely showcase special exhibits celebrating this new animation.
Visiting the Ghibli Museum
The Ghibli Museum has everything you’d expect from a place dedicated to a studio that has been a “dream factory” for so many.
If you’re a dedicated fan, you’ll notice all the small details from the studio’s series spread throughout the museum.
If not, you’ll be enchanted by what this company represents—both to Japan and to its global fans.
Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park is home to the Ghibli Museum, but it’s not the only attraction the park offers.
Inokashira Park features a large lake surrounded by tall, sturdy trees that create a unique landscape. Visitors can enjoy various activities on the lake, such as exploring it in pedal boats, some of which are shaped like ducks.
The park also houses a zoo and an aquarium, popular among locals and tourists alike. Additionally, there’s a temple honoring the Goddess Benzaiten.
Artists from nearby areas often come to Inokashira to showcase and perform, drawing large crowds in a lively and creative atmosphere. You’ll also find people painting outdoors or exercising in the park.
Another popular activity in the park is hanami, a cherished Japanese tradition that involves admiring the beauty of flowers—specifically cherry blossoms. “Hanami” literally translates to “flower viewing” in Japanese.
To make your Tokyo visit even more exciting, we recommend trying out the “Shibuya Crossing, Harajuku, and Tokyo Tower Go Kart Tour.” This tour offers an immersive experience into Japanese pop culture that complements a visit to the Ghibli Museum.
Permanent and Temporary Exhibits
The Ghibli Museum hosts several permanent exhibits that showcase animation techniques used in the studio’s films.
Other displays include tools and equipment from Ghibli’s early days, illustrating the evolution of animation and the technology behind it.
You’ll also find areas featuring panorama boxes, strobe lights, and projection cameras—all used in the creation of traditional animations by the studio.
One of the most fascinating permanent exhibits for visitors is the collection of original drawings, models, and sketches from the studio’s famous animations. It’s truly impressive to see how beloved characters came to life on the drawing board.
The temporary exhibits, on the other hand, showcase items based on specific themes, such as recent releases or anniversaries of notable Ghibli films.
Saturn Theater
One of the museum’s highlights is the Saturn Theater, which can accommodate up to 80 people.
Here, visitors can enjoy daily screenings of animated shorts created by Hayao Miyazaki himself.
These shorts are highly visual and have minimal dialogue, making them accessible and enjoyable regardless of language.
Totoro’s Cat-Bus
One of the most iconic Ghibli films, My Neighbor Totoro, inspired a dedicated area in the museum. Here, you’ll find Totoro’s Cat-Bus exhibit.
Initially, a child-sized replica of the famous bus from the film was installed. Due to its popularity, a full-sized version was created for adults, allowing everyone to enjoy the experience. This is one of the most popular spots in the museum.
Rooftop Terrace
On the Ghibli Museum’s rooftop, you’ll find the Straw Hat Café, named after the charming character from *Howl’s Moving Castle*. Here, you can enjoy a variety of drinks and make a stop to grab a bite to eat, perfect for a break during your museum visit.
It’s highly recommended to take your purchases and enjoy them on the terrace, soaking in the atmosphere and the view from there.
On the terrace, there’s also a life-sized replica of the giant robot from the animation Castle in the Sky, Studio Ghibli’s first animated film. Considered the museum’s guardian, it’s one of the most iconic pieces on display.
Mamma Aiuto Gift Shop
A visit to the Ghibli Museum isn’t complete without stopping by the Mamma Aiuto gift shop, filled with high-quality merchandise inspired by the studio’s animations.
You’ll find a wide range of products here, and the real challenge will be deciding what to buy without taking everything home! Some collectible items can be pricey, but there are plenty of more affordable options as well.
Is the Ghibli Museum Worth a Visit?
If you’re a fan of Studio Ghibli’s animated films, there’s no doubt—you’ll love the Ghibli Museum.
If you’re not a die-hard fan but have seen some of their work or are simply curious, it’s still worth going for a fun experience that deepens your understanding of Ghibli.
Even if you haven’t seen the films and don’t have young children, visiting the Ghibli Museum offers a chance to explore an essential part of Japanese culture through its animation. It’s a great outing for anyone with a curiosity about this art form.
Ghibli Museum Admission and Hours
The Ghibli Museum is open daily except Tuesdays, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Once inside, you can stay as long as you like—there’s no time limit.
A full tour of each area usually takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend in the shops and café.
The museum is closed for maintenance during the last week of May and the first week of November, so it’s best to check the dates before planning your visit.
Admission prices vary by age:
- 18 years and over: €8
- Ages 13 to 18: €5.6
- Ages 7 to 12: €3.2
- Ages 4 to 6: €0.8
- Children under 3: Free
Note that taking photos or videos inside the museum is not allowed. While some may be tempted to take discreet photos, it’s best to focus on enjoying the experience without risking any issues.
To enhance your visit, we suggest following up with a tour of Tokyo’s iconic sites that have inspired memorable Ghibli film scenes. For example, consider a ticket to Tokyo Tower, offering a unique vantage point to further explore the city.
Location and How to Get There
There are several ways to reach the Ghibli Museum, depending on your plans for the day.
Many visitors make the most of the day by exploring the nearby area.
If you’d like to visit Inokashira Park either before or after the museum, it’s best to take the JR Sobu Line and get off at Mitaka Station. From there, it’s a 10-15 minute walk to the museum.
There’s also a special Ghibli Museum bus that circles various areas. For a full Ghibli experience, this bus is a fantastic option.
Be sure to check the bus schedule and stops when reserving museum tickets. The bus fare is €2.4, covering both the round trip to and from the museum.