The Ghibli Museum in Tokyo is no doubt on the to-do list for all fans of the iconic Studio Ghibli films. This museum is a celebration of the anime films and the works of Hayao Miyazaki, and it offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors.
Located in Mitaka, just outside of central Tokyo, the Ghibli Museum is a popular attraction that can be challenging to navigate. However, with the right information, visitors can make the most of their visit to this magical place.
From getting tickets to exploring the museum’s exhibits, this in-depth guide will provide visitors with everything they need to know to plan a successful trip to the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo.
Getting There
The Ghibli Museum is located in Mitaka, a suburb of Tokyo. The easiest way to get there is by taking the JR Chuo Line to Mitaka Station. From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the museum.
If you’re coming from Central Tokyo, take the Chuo Rapid Line to Mitaka Station. If you’re coming from Shinjuku, it will take about 20 minutes. From Tokyo Station, it will take about 30 minutes.
Another option is to take the Keio Inokashira Line to Kichijoji Station and walk from there. It’s about a 20-minute walk from Kichijoji Station through Inokashira park to the museum.
If you’re driving, there is a parking lot near the museum, but it can be difficult to find a spot, especially on weekends and holidays. It’s recommended to take public transportation if possible.
One thing to note is that the Ghibli Museum is a popular attraction, and tickets must be purchased in advance. Visitors should be aware that ID is necessary to enter the museum if the ticket has their name listed. This is to prevent reselling of tickets.
To purchase tickets, you can use the LAWSON mobile application. Tickets can be purchased up to three months in advance, and it’s recommended to purchase them as early as possible to ensure availability.
Once you have your tickets, be sure to arrive at the museum at the designated time slot. Late arrivals may not be admitted, and re-entry is not allowed.
Overall, getting to the Ghibli Museum is fairly straightforward, but it’s important to plan ahead and purchase tickets in advance to ensure a smooth visit.
Tickets and Reservations
Visiting the Ghibli Museum requires advance reservation. No reservation or ticket purchase can be made at the Museum. It is important to note that tickets for the Ghibli Museum are in high demand and can sell out quickly, so it is recommended to purchase them well in advance.
There are several ways to purchase tickets for the Ghibli Museum. According to Ghibli Museum’s official website, tickets can be purchased online or in person at Lawson convenience stores in Japan. It is also possible to purchase tickets through travel agencies or tour operators.
The price of admission to the Ghibli Museum is remarkably cheap at just JPY 1,000 for adults and JPY 700 for children aged 4 to 12. Children under the age of 4 are not permitted to enter the museum.
It is important to keep in mind that tickets for the Ghibli Museum are date-specific and timed-entry, meaning that visitors must enter the museum at the designated time on their ticket. Visitors are not allowed to enter the museum before or after their designated time slot, so it is important to plan accordingly.
Additionally, visitors are not allowed to take photographs or use their mobile phones inside the museum. Backpacks and large bags must be checked in at the coat check, and food and drinks are not allowed inside the museum.
Exhibits and Attractions
The Ghibli Museum offers a variety of exhibits and attractions that will delight both children and adults alike.
One of the most popular exhibits is the “Where a Film is Born” exhibit, which covers the first floor of the museum. This exhibit provides visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the animation process and showcases the tools and techniques used by Studio Ghibli animators. Visitors can see the evolution of the animation process from initial sketches to fully-realized scenes.
Another must-see exhibit is the “Catbus Room,” which is a recreation of the iconic catbus from the film “My Neighbor Totoro.” Visitors can climb inside the catbus and explore its various nooks and crannies.
The “Straw Hat Cafe” is a popular attraction for visitors looking to grab a bite to eat. The cafe offers a variety of snacks and meals inspired by Studio Ghibli films, such as Totoro cream puffs and Kiki’s Delivery Service-themed pancakes.
Other exhibits include the “Ghibli Original Short Films Theater,” which screens short films created by Studio Ghibli, and the “Reading Room,” which is filled with books and manga related to Studio Ghibli films.
It’s important to note that photography is not allowed inside the museum, so visitors should be sure to take in all the exhibits and attractions with their own eyes.
You should plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring the museum to fully appreciate all that it has to offer.
Food and Souvenirs
When visiting the Ghibli Museum, visitors can enjoy a variety of food options and purchase unique souvenirs to commemorate their visit.
One popular food option is the Straw Hat Cafe, which offers a variety of dishes inspired by Studio Ghibli films, such as the Totoro Cream Puff and the Kiki’s Delivery Service Pancakes. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while taking in the view of the beautiful garden surrounding the museum.
For those looking for a quick snack, the museum also has a concession stand that offers popcorn, soft drinks, and other snacks.
When it comes to souvenirs, the Ghibli Museum has a gift shop filled with unique merchandise inspired by Studio Ghibli films. Visitors can purchase items such as plush toys, t-shirts, and postcards, as well as exclusive items only available at the museum.
One popular souvenir is the replica of the Cat Bus from the movie My Neighbor Totoro. Visitors can also purchase limited edition items that change throughout the year, so it’s always worth checking out what’s new.
Remember that the museum has a strict policy of not allowing photography inside the museum, including in the gift shop. Visitors should respect this policy and refrain from taking photos in these areas.
Tips and Recommendations
Visiting the Ghibli Museum can be an unforgettable experience, but it’s important to plan ahead to make sure you get the most out of your visit. Here are some tips and recommendations:
- Buy your tickets in advance: Tickets for the Ghibli Museum can sell out quickly, so it’s best to buy them in advance. You can purchase them online or at a Lawson convenience store in Japan.
- Arrive early: The museum can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early can help you avoid long lines and give you more time to explore the exhibits.
- Take your time: The Ghibli Museum is full of intricate details and hidden surprises, so take your time to explore each exhibit and enjoy the experience.
- Watch a short film: The museum has a small theater that shows short films created by Studio Ghibli. Make sure to check the schedule and plan to watch one during your visit.
- Visit the rooftop garden: The rooftop garden is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. Take some time to relax and enjoy the view.
- Don’t forget souvenirs: The museum has a gift shop that sells a variety of Ghibli-themed souvenirs, including plush toys, t-shirts, and art prints. Make sure to pick up a few items to remember your visit.
By following these tips and recommendations, you can have a memorable and enjoyable visit to the Ghibli Museum.
The museum is closed on Tuesdays and during certain holidays, so make sure to check the schedule before planning your visit.
The Sum Up
Visiting the Ghibli Museum is an unforgettable experience that any fan of Studio Ghibli should not miss. From the whimsical architecture to the immersive exhibits, visitors can truly step into the magical world of Hayao Miyazaki and his beloved films.
While it may take some planning ahead to secure tickets and navigate transportation to the museum, the effort is well worth it. Visitors can enjoy a variety of exhibits, including the permanent exhibition that showcases the process of animation and filmmaking at Studio Ghibli.
One of the highlights of the museum is the exclusive short film that is shown only at the museum’s theater. This film changes periodically, so visitors can expect a unique experience each time they visit.
Overall, the Ghibli Museum is a must-visit destination for any anime fan or lover of Japanese culture. With its charming atmosphere and dedication to showcasing the art of animation, it is a true gem in Tokyo.
Remember to plan ahead and purchase tickets in advance, as they sell out quickly. And don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all the magical moments at the Ghibli Museum!
