Ghibli Park is a unique theme park located in Nagakute, Japan, dedicated to the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli films. Opened in November 2022, the park invites visitors to step into the beloved animated worlds of Hayao Miyazaki and explore iconic locations, encounter familiar characters, and experience the magic that has captivated audiences for generations.
A Dream Come True for Ghibli Fans
Ghibli Park invites you to wander through lovingly recreated scenes from iconic films like “My Neighbor Totoro”, “Spirited Away”, and “Howl’s Moving Castle”. This is a place where fantasy and reality blur, inviting visitors of all ages to rediscover the childlike wonder that Ghibli films inspire.
The park is built within the existing Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park, emphasizing harmony with nature, a core theme in many Ghibli films. It’s not a traditional amusement park with thrill rides; instead, it prioritizes exploration, discovery, and interaction with the lovingly crafted environments.
Wander and Wonder: Exploring the Magic of Ghibli Park
Ghibli Park is a sprawling magical world of Studio Ghibli. Let’s take a peek inside some of the enchanting areas:
Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse: This massive indoor facility is a treasure trove for Ghibli fans. You can explore life-sized recreations of iconic film sets, like the train from “Spirited Away” and the antique shop from “Whisper of the Heart”. Interactive exhibits let you become part of the animation magic, and a life-size cat-bus awaits cuddles.
Dondoko Forest: Step into the heartwarming world of “My Neighbor Totoro”, walking Wander through a recreation of Satsuki and Mei’s house, complete with period-accurate details. Go into the surrounding forest and discover the giant camphor tree, where you might even encounter Totoro himself.
Hill of Youth: This area blends elements from “Whisper of the Heart” and “Howl’s Moving Castle”. Visit the antique shop and climb the hill to reach the Earth Shop, offering stunning views of the park. The iconic Elevator Tower, though not part of any specific film, adds a touch of whimsy to the landscape.
Mononoke’s Village: Journey into the mystical world of “Princess Mononoke”. Meet life-sized statues of the film’s iconic creatures, like the Forest Spirit and the Kodama tree spirits. Explore the imposing Irontown, a testament to the film’s themes of nature and industry.
Valley of Witches (opening 2024): This highly anticipated area will bring “Kiki’s Delivery Service” to life. Visit Kiki’s bakery, wander through the charming town square, and marvel at the towering Howl’s Moving Castle.
Ghibli Park is more than just a collection of attractions; it’s a carefully curated experience designed to evoke wonder and spark imagination. Every corner is filled with meticulous details and hidden surprises, waiting to be discovered by those who venture into this magical realm.
Planning Your Ghibli Park Visit
Ghibli Park is easily accessible by train from Nagoya Station. Buying tickets for Ghibli Park requires planning ahead, here’s a breakdown of how to secure your spot in this magical world:
Timing is Key: Tickets go on sale on the 10th of each month, two months in advance.
Online Purchase: The primary way to purchase tickets is through the Lawson Ticket website or app. You’ll need to create an account and select your desired date and area(s) of the park. For International visitors, you’ll need to select the “International Tickets” option when making your purchase.
Ticket Types: Ghibli Park offers various ticket types, including day passes for individual areas and combination tickets for multiple areas. Be sure to choose the ticket that best suits your interests and schedule.
Ghibli Park is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring magic of animation. This is a place where dreams take flight and childhood wonder is reignited. No matter if you’re a lifelong Ghibli fan or simply seeking a unique and enchanting experience, Ghibli Park promises to leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
