Ghibli Museum
4.5
(18.4k)This whimsical museum is dedicated to the renowned Studio Ghibli animation studio, offering a deep dive into the art and technique of animation. You'll find detailed exhibits showcasing the animation process, a theater for exclusive short films, and a charming rooftop garden. The building itself is designed to be part of the experience, with intricate decorations and many nooks to explore.
Address
1-chōme-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan
Opening Hours
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Thu)
Worth it?
Worth it if you're ready to immerse yourself in a storybook world and appreciate the artistry of animation
Skip if you prefer museums where photography is allowed or if you haven't planned tickets well in advance
Location
1-chōme-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan
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Highlights
The Saturn Theater in the basement screens exclusive Ghibli animated short films, designed with small children in mind.
A life-size, five-meter-tall Robot Soldier from "Castle in the Sky" stands in the rooftop garden.
The museum features a replica of the Catbus from "My Neighbor Totoro" in a playroom for children 12 and under.
The ceiling at the entrance is covered in a fresco painting featuring characters from Studio Ghibli films.
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Who it's for
This is a must-visit for any Studio Ghibli or Hayao Miyazaki fan, as well as anyone interested in the animation process. It's also great for families with children aged 12 and under, thanks to a dedicated play area.
Know before you go
Tickets are extremely limited for non-residents and typically require booking at least two months in advance, often selling out within days of release.
The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
You can reach the museum by a 15-minute walk along the Tamagawa Aqueduct from Mitaka Station or through Inokashira Park from Kichijoji Station, or by a short bus ride from Mitaka Station.
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Reviews
4.5
Exceptional
5 ReviewsVisitors consistently describe the Ghibli Museum as a unique and magical experience, highlighting the detailed animation exhibits, whimsical architecture, and the exclusive short film. The main practical advice is to plan far ahead for tickets, as they are very limited and sell out quickly.
Fun facts
Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki designed the museum himself, using storyboards similar to those he creates for his films.
The museum's design was influenced by European architecture, including the hilltop village of Calcata in Italy.
The museum's slogan, "Let's get lost together," reflects Miyazaki's vision for visitors to immerse themselves in his imagination.
