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Studio Ghibli, Japan's most legendary animation powerhouse, has enjoyed international acclaim and enchanted not just Japanese children but children and adults all over the world.
If you’re in Japan and want a taste of Ghibli’s fantastical worlds for yourself, here’s 5 spots in Tokyo which will fully immerse you in the magic.
Studio Ghibli Attractions in Tokyo
1. Mitaka Ghibli Museum, Kichijoji
Starting with the most obvious one, the official Studio Ghibli Museum is located in Kichijoji. At this tribute to the revered animation studio you can see exhibitions, recreated sets and even an exclusive short animation. Sometimes special exhibitions are held focusing on one aspect of the films, such as the food so beautifully animated that it makes your mouth water. Tickets for the museum can only be bought in advance as they’re not on sale at the location itself.
Address: 1-1-83 Simorenjaku, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo 181-0013
Ghibli Museum Website
(Information for buying tickets in Lawson in English here)
2. Shirohige's Cream Puff Factory, Setagaya
© Grape Japan
Hidden away in Tokyo’s suburbs, this quaint little bakery café crafted their own little Studio Ghibli inspired world. The cream puffs are not only delicious but each one takes the form of a perfect little Totoro, filled with various flavours of cream. You can buy them to take out on the first floor, or sit down to eat on the second floor. The cream puffs are the main event, but there’s also cute Ghibli-inspired sweets that you can buy.
Address: 5 Chome-3-1 Daita, Setagaya, Tokyo 155-0033
Shirohige's Cream Puff Factory Website
3. NTV's Really Big Clock, Shiodome
© Grape Japan
At the Nitele Tower (Nippon Television’s headquarters) there’s a surprising installation. This animated clock was designed by Hayao Miyazaki himself, and although no links to his movies have been confirmed, the design looks similar to the style of Howl’s Moving Castle. The clock comes to life at certain times throughout the day and contains all the flourishes and attention to detail that you’d expect from the legendary director.
Address: 1-6-1 Higashishinbashi, Minato, Tokyo
(Clock becomes animated at 12pm, 3pm, 6pm and 8pm. It also moves at 10am during weekends. The show starts about 4 minutes before the hour so arrive early!)
4. Donguri Republic, Various Locations
Donguri Republic can be found all over Japan and many branches are in Tokyo. The shelves of this store are lined with an awe-inspiring amount of official Studio Ghibli character goods. From the biggest and fluffiest Totoro plushies to the daintiest Jiji ornaments, you’re sure to be able to find plenty of merchandise to suit you.
Donguri Republic store list found on official website
5. Temari no Oshiro Cat Cafe, Kichijoji
This cat cafe actually has no links at all to Studio Ghibli, but the cute storybook atmosphere could have been lifted straight out of one of their animations. The interior and exterior of the establishment is decked out in fantastical style and adorable kitties roam freely around. With movies like Kiki’s Delivery Service and The Cat Returns heavily featuring feline characters (not to mention the cafe’s proximity to the Studio Ghibli Museum), taking a break with some cute cats is just another way to pay tribute to the beloved animations of Studio Ghibli.
Address: 180-0004 Tokyo, Musashino, Kichijoji 2-13-14 Musashi Forum 3F
Temari no Oshiro Website