Get ready to immerse yourself in the fantastical and magical world of Harry Potter like never before. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter is set to open its doors on June 16th, 2023 at the former Toshimaen site. This brand-new attraction will offer you the chance to step behind the scenes and explore every nook and cranny of the spellbinding movies that captured our hearts.
A quick note: The “Wizarding World” and associated terms, personalities, and symbols are registered trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. – Publishing rights for the Wizarding World © J.K. Rowling.
As Asia’s very first Warner Bros. Studio Tour, this ultimate experience will take fans on an adventure through all things wizarding-filled with surprises at every turn.
With exclusive sets only found here and boasting secrets from both Fantastic Beasts films as well as of course the Harry Potter films beloved by everyone. The theme park hopes to build upon the success of its London version which has welcomed over seventeen million visitors since it opened back in twenty twelve.
You’ll be able to discover remarkable insights into how these iconic movies were brought from script to screen using cutting-edge film production techniques-come closer than ever before via groundbreaking displays filled with authentic props & costumes straight off Hollywood sound stages.
The Studio Tour promises to be an unforgettable experience for all you Potterheads out there. Don’t forget to quench your thirst with a frothy Butterbeer in the Backlot, the drink beloved by wizards and muggles alike.
Fancy indulging in some scrumptious British-inspired dishes or perhaps sinking your teeth into magical sweet treats? Look no further than one of our delightful cafés on-site.
For those who simply can’t resist bringing home a piece of Hogwarts magic with them, there will be the world’s largest Harry Potter shop boasting an array of Wizarding World gifts, souvenirs, stationery – you name it.
Here’s What we know so far about what will be on display:
Great Hall
The Great Hall is an iconic and essential part of every Hogwarts student’s life, from Harry’s Sorting Ceremony to the Battle of Hogwarts. This majestic space was inspired by a 16th-century hall in Oxford at Christ Church College – one of their most famous colleges. readers can step into this legendary set on our Studio Tour and explore all its intricate details up close.
As you make your way through the grand doors, keep an eye out for grotesques shaped like snakes, badgers, lions, and ravens that line the hallways – each representing a different house at Hogwarts School. The House Points Counter also adds some extra magic with colorful glass beads tracking how well each house is doing throughout the school year.
Overall we recommend checking it out if interested as not only will visitors learn about magical design but they’ll also get to experience yet another layer within J.K Rowling’s wizarding universe
Platform 9 ¾
Looking to experience a bit of wizardry in London? Look no further than Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross Station – the very same spot where Harry Potter first glimpsed the magical world he was destined for. While many scenes were filmed on-location amidst bustling commuters, parts of this iconic platform had to be recreated specifically for Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows – Part 2.
But fear not. Fans can still pay homage by stepping onto the famous platform and even boarding their own Hogwarts Express train. Get ready to channel your inner Gryffindor (or Slytherin.)
Diagon Alley
Step into the bustling shopping street of Diagon Alley, essential for any young witch or wizard preparing to start school at Hogwarts. With everything from Galleon-collecting at Gringotts Wizarding Bank to choosing your beloved animal companion at Magical Menagerie – this is a one-stop-shop for all your student needs.
During filming, the magical set was constantly changing and adapting with walls shifting, shop fronts moving and new shops being added in true Tokyo style. The set even transformed itself into Hogsmeade complete with fake snow during Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.
When you step onto Diagon Alley today be sure not to miss out on exploring each unique shop window up close including Ollivanders wand emporium home of some serious magic-making tools as well as Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes- serving-up madcap mischief products that are perfect for lightening every students mood.
Forbidden Forest
Next up is the Forbidden Forest, a lush woodland home to some of magic’s most incredible creatures and deepest secrets. While Hogwarts students are strictly forbidden from entering these mystical woods, we’re inviting you to push boundaries and venture deep into this extraordinary enclave.
Designed to resemble an ordinary forest on the surface but offering otherworldly experiences for those who dare tread deeper, the enchanted flora-and-fauna-packed landscape comes alive as you journey further inwards. Like any good movie set, scenic artists have spared no expense constructing incredibly detailed backdrops stretching over 600ft long for Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows-Part 2.
As your feet crunch through fallen leaves underfoot—keeping one eye peeled at all times—you’ll recognize crucial moments from beloved films such as Hagrid’s first Care of Magical Creatures class complete with his buck-toothed companion Buckbeak. You can challenge yourself by casting a spell that requires true concentration—an impressive Patronus charm capable of warding off Dementors will surely do—or even throw down against these dark ghosts themselves.
Finally face-down Aragog himself within his lair if you end up proving worthy enough (and let us tell ya…he is not playing games). This epic adventure has everything fans could hope for: danger around every corner; exhilarating magical feats worth boasting about later—all while surrounded by stunning natural wonder unlike anything found elsewhere. Explore onward…if you dare.
Wands
Throughout the filming process, the skilled Prop Making Department conjured up thousands of magical wands. Each one was tailored to its owner – a reflection of their personality, style and passions. From Professor Snape’s understated design to Professor Slughorn’s extravagant wand complete with tentacle-like adornments on its handle.
In the mystical world of wizards, wands were carefully crafted from an array of woods such as holly, cypress, and vine; infused with power from phoenix feathers or dragon heartstrings alike.
To recreate this enchanting essence for screen use in Harry Potter movies though, prop makers got creative using various organic materials too. The team would begin by creating molds based off their designs so that multiple versions could be made out resin or rubber depending upon need- all while ensuring they maintained optimal durability during action scenes.
The Goblet of Fire
You may recall the unforgettable moment when Harry Potter was chosen as a Triwizard champion in the fourth film of the famous series. And what took center stage during this scene? None other than the Goblet of Fire. But did you know that this crucial prop underwent numerous design iterations before reaching its final appearance on-screen? In fact, two versions were created with entirely different purposes – one serving as a hero prop and another containing an SFX rig concealed within.
Pierre Bohanna, Head Propmaker extraordinaire, hand-carved original goblet from a single piece of gloriously twisted wood — carefully selected to give it that ancient feeling we all crave. Knots and splits add organic depth to make even Voldemort himself stop for closer examination. A mold was then taken from his masterpiece so that those magnificent special effects could propel parchments representing each champ.
Memory Cabinet
If you’re a fan of the magical realm of Harry Potter, be sure to check out Dumbledore’s memory cabinet. Hidden away in his office, this unassuming piece holds almost 900 vials – each filled with its own unique and powerful memory. You might even recognize some familiar names etched onto these small containers- like Argus Filch or Professor McGonagall.
And if that wasn’t enough to pique your interest, imagine being able to relive those memories just as easily as our beloved Hogwarts headmaster did in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. All it takes is a dip into Dumbledore’s Pensieve… So what are you waiting for? Come experience the magic for yourself at Hogwarts School Of Witchcraft And Wizardry.
Dobby
If you’re a die-hard Harry Potter fan, then you’ll know all about Dobby the house-elf. But did you ever stop to think about how he came to life in the movies? Well, hold onto your Sorting Hats because we’ve got some insider info for ya.
First things first – let’s talk CGI. Yup, that little guy on screen was mostly created using computer-generated imagery (CGI). But don’t be fooled into thinking it was as simple as pressing a button and voila. Dobby appeared on-screen. Oh no my friend, there were many processes involved.
To help guide actors during filming so they knew where to look when interacting with an imaginary character like him underfoot or floating above ground level while flapping his ears wildly around their faces… filmmakers used something called “a tennis ball on a stick” technique placing this dummy reference prop right at its expected final location of composition tracking focus which would later aid VFX artists match movements seamlessly between live-action footage and generated animations by producing renderings reflecting body language reflexes etc.
Later down the line though filmmakers realized that they needed more than just digital renders alone if they wanted audiences worldwide really feel emotionally invested towards everyone’s favorite elf-on-a-mission: enter handmade recreation models.
These weren’t any ordinary physical replicas either; oh no sir/madam these bad boys were intricately detailed down every last pore hair follicle wrinkle crevice blemish wart maybe tooth cavity even…
By having such realistic puppets present onset performers could intuitively connect visual cues based on intricate details from face structure alone without worrying too much over mixing up questionable perspectives typical flat green screens might cause.
Buckbeak
If you thought Buckbeak the Hippogriff was just another CGI creation, think again. This beloved beast from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban had fans swooning with its majestic appearance. Its design was inspired by real-life golden eagles and horses which added to its charm.
But here’s something that will make your jaw drop – three different versions of Buckbeak were created for filming purposes. Yes, that’s right – one standing tall and proud while another reared up in excitement. The third version even lay down lazily upon demand.
Every detail mattered when it came to bringing this animatronic creature to life on screen. Individual feathers were dyed by hand before being painstakingly glued onto Buckbeak’s body adding texture so realistic viewers could almost feel them brush against their face.
So if there ever comes a time when you meet any hippogryphs (we’re sure they exist somewhere.), be prepared for an awe-inspiring experience unlike anything else..just don’t forget those gloves during feather maintenance season…
Goblins
In the magical realm of Harry Potter, Gringotts Wizarding Bank is managed and run by none other than Goblins. These mythical creatures are not only responsible for handling transactions but also serve as officials in this enchanted world. And what sets them apart from each other? Their unique looks. That’s right – every Goblin sports a one-of-a-kind appearance that truly reflects their personality through custom prosthetics and costumes.
Did you know that during the filming of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2, a staggering 60 actors were hired to play these mysterious beings? Each actor took almost four hours to be transformed into an authentic-looking Goblin courtesy of over 120 brilliant artists who worked tirelessly on creating realistic prosthetic makeup effects.
But it doesn’t stop there because did we mention just how much material was used to bring these characters to life across all eight movies? Brace yourself: around 1.7 metric tonnes (yes, TONNES.) worth of silicone was utilized solely on crafting those intricate goblin masks- talk about attention to detail.
Aragog
Aragog the Acromantula – you may not have heard of him, but he’s a true legend in Tokyo. Created by the Creature Effects Team, this eight-legged wonder had a leg span of over 18 feet and made quite an impression on fans as it crawled out onto the screen to deliver some dialogue in Harry Potter and The Chamber Of Secrets.
The thing is: Aragog wasn’t just your average prop. During filming, it took over 15 people and their fancy animatronics skills to bring this bad boy to life. This included puppeteers for his back legs who worked alongside other team members operating all kinds of complicated machinery required for its lifelike movements.
And let’s not forget about that wild hairdo. Every last strand was crafted using different materials like broom bristles mixed with pieces from coconuts (.). It takes true craftsmanship (and maybe even bravery) to insert each individual needle one-by-one by hand just so we can enjoy seeing such magnificent realism on our screens.
So if there ever comes another opportunity where these legends come together again – don’t miss out because they sure know how important epic details are when creating iconic characters like Aragog.
Broomstick Flying
Get the scoop on one of the most bewitching aspects of Harry Potter: broomstick flying. From humble beginnings with a basic rig for Harry’s initial flight lesson, to dazzling visuals in Quidditch World Cup scenes – this art has truly soared through its evolution across all eight films.
To really nail those raucous Quidditch sequences, every movement was painstakingly mapped out via storyboarding; which then led onto weeks worth of filming by actors stuck atop their trusty brooms while being filmed against blue or green screens ultimately replaced by an exciting stadium background. All thanks to SFX and VFX magic.
The Knight Bus
Dubbed as the “Magic on Wheels” in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, latest find will surely take your transportation game to a whole new level. Behold, The Knight Bus. Whenever you’re in dire need of getting somewhere ASAP and without hassle – this triple-decker bus is ready to come to your rescue.
Now hold up muggles (and wizards alike), because what makes it even more fascinating is that its actual parts came from genuine London buses. Our special effects supervisor John Richardson works like magic with his team by cutting off an existing roof-level adding another layer before putting things back into place- implementing enchanting purple color for that final touch.
Hop on board The Knight Bus today, where all roads lead towards magical possibilities. Trust us; you won’t regret it.
The Pensieve
Located in the illustrious office of Hogwarts’ Headmaster Dumbledore, lies a mystical artifact known as the Pensieve. This magical contraption allows one to delve into memories and relive past moments with precision and accuracy. We first catch a glimpse of this wonder in Harry Potter’s fourth adventure – The Goblet of Fire – when both he and Professor Dumbledore use the device to review Barty Crouch Jr.’s trial.
With time, we learn more about its nuanced abilities as it reveals how deep-seated relationships can be unraveled through recalling precious recollections someone has shared or additional never-before-heard details from their perspectives. In particular, our beloved Snape shares personal revelations regarding his interactions with none other than Harry’s dear mother herself.
Although originally perched on an unassuming stone platform during its debut appearance within cinematic history; subsequently appearing aloft casually floating amidst mid-air whilst eluding gravity itself throughout Half-Blood Prince – there is no denying that such experiences unearthed by those who peer inside are truly priceless commodities indeed.
Costumes
Hogwarts Uniform
Did you know that a whopping 25,000 pieces of magical clothing were conjured up during the jaw-dropping ten-year span it took to film all eight Harry Potter flicks? That’s right – over 600 uniforms alone for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. While the iconic look stayed consistent throughout each movie (duh), every Director and Costume Designer threw their own twist on things. Enter Jany Temime: this wizardly costuming genius joined in with Prisoner of Azkaban to give those tired robes an epic update. We’re talking house-colored collars and hoods here people, so Gryffindors can rep red while Slytherins rock out green.
Albus Dumbledore
We all know the importance of a good costume in bringing beloved characters to life on screen. And when it comes to Albus Dumbledore – well, let’s just say those robes weren’t made overnight. Countless hours of planning and crafting went into creating an outfit that truly does justice to this respected wizard.
But here’s where things get interesting: as we follow Dumbledore throughout the movies, his fashion sense (or lack thereof?) evolves right before our very eyes. In fact, some of his earliest costumes were actually fashioned from antique fabrics and even old tapestries – talk about recycling.
And if you thought that was impressive…just wait until later in the series when our dear headmaster is injured while hunting down one particular Horcrux (yes, we’re talking about THAT scene). Suddenly his costumes start reflecting a newfound vulnerability; gone are vibrant hues replaced by more muted colors befitting someone who’s been through such trauma.
So next time you catch Harry Potter marathoning or better yet visit Wizarding World at Universal Studios Orlando make sure to take notice of how clothes reflect character evolution- especially everyone’s favorite sage-like figurehead –Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore
Yule Ball
Get this: Jany Temime, the wizard behind 300+ costumes in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’s Yule Ball scene, landed a spot at Hogwarts by transforming plain ol’ robes into enchanting gowns fit for royalty. And it took an army of over 100 seamstresses to sew each intricate detail. The girls looked stunning sporting elegant dresses while their male classmates rocked dress robes that were every bit as dapper as they were magical. Ron Weasley even got his own unique look – a hand-me-down costume made from outdated layer upon layer of lace and old carpet fabric transformed him into quite the standout character among ’em all.
Beauxbatons
We were particularly taken with the costumes of Beauxbatons students during their visit to Hogwarts for the Triwizard Tournament in Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire.
Coming all the way from France, these fashionable folks brought a fresh perspective (and some seriously stunning blue fabric) into an otherwise drab sea of black and grey uniforms. These daring designers opted for more form-fitting designs that really showcase each student’s individual style – proving once again that French couture is truly something special.
If you’re looking to elevate your own wardrobe game like those stylish spell-casters from Beauxbaton, keep checking back here at where we’ll be bringing you even more cutting-edge trends straight outta Japan (and beyond).
Hogwarts Castle Model
Yet another major highlight looks to be the scale model of Hogwarts that visitors get to feast their eyes upon.
But here’s something you might not know: this magical marvel is actually a recreation of the one built by the Art Department for “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”. Yup, they took what was already impressive enough and made it even better for us mere Muggles to enjoy.
And we’re talking serious attention-to-detail here. Every single part of Hogwarts has been crafted with meticulous precision by an artistic team boasting 86 members strong. From those iconic greenhouses all the way to the Boathouse where students catch rides across Black Lake…they haven’t missed anything.
Oh but wait, it gets even cooler. You’ll also get treated to over 2,500 flickering fiber optic lights throughout – perfectly positioned as lanterns or torches casting warm glows down each hallway like only magic could do so well.
Fun fact alert: if someone were crazy enough (*ahem*)to add up all hours spent building and reworking this incredible masterpiece,it would tally up at more than SEVENTY-FOUR years total.
So my fellow Tokyo dwellers…get ready for some goosebumps when visiting this place because I promise,you won’t regret missing out on such awestruck moments especially if you are secretly waiting…
Death Eaters
While the Death Eaters might shroud themselves in secrecy with masks to remain unrecognized, there’s a small silver lining: they’re totally unique. Yes, those creepy visages that would send chills down your spine are actually individualized for each character thanks to some dedicated artists over at the Art Department.
Using their creative vision and an eye for detail, these masterminds behind prop-making breathe life into what is otherwise a faceless coven of Voldemort devotees. Each mask receives its own distinct flair that speaks volumes about who wears it – all without uttering any words.
It takes serious talent (and hours upon hours of meticulous work) to craft such stunning pieces by hand but boy do they deliver. Say what you will about Death Eaters’ taste in fashion; nobody can argue this crew has got style when it comes down to masking up.
Food & Drink
Step into a world of magical meals and wizarding sweets at the Studio Tour’s restaurants and cafes. At the Chocolate Frog Cafe, indulge in an assortment of delectable sweet treats with a delightful wizardly twist. Treat yourself before or after your tour for maximum enjoyment.
Mid-way through your journey, stop by The Backlot Cafe to grab quick bites and even more scrumptious desserts – perfect for keeping spirits high as you immerse yourself in all things Harry Potter.
For those looking to experience British tradition during their visit, look no further than our very own Professor Umbridge-inspired Afternoon Tea served exclusively at our Backlot Café. Delightful magic-themed treats galore await you on this unforgettable culinary adventure.
Please note that Afternoon Tea reservations are available on-site only (subject to availability), so be sure to secure yours early. Each table is reserved for 90 minutes of mystery-filled munching delight under a Hogwarts-style ambiance.
And if that weren’t enough temptation already, make sure not to miss out on experiencing the best Butterbeer around – now complete with ice cream options- down at Food Hall: where British cuisine meets fantasy fusion like never seen before.
Make every bite memorable; only here can Muggles truly know what it feels like dine amongst witches & wizards alike.
Tickets
Hey there, Muggles. Ready for an adventure? Well then, tickets, please.
If you’re craving some spellbinding action at the Wizarding World Studio Tour in Tokyo, make sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time on our website – they won’t be available at the attraction itself. Just a heads up that once they’ve been purchased, these babies are non-changeable and non-refundable.
Adult tickets start from 6,300 JPY – complete packages included. Junior Tickets (ages 12-17) start from 5,200JPY.
Accompanied by little ones who have barely touched their wands yet? Child Tickets( ages between4 -11 ) start off from3,800JPY.
Access
Visiting the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo is a must-do experience for any pop culture-loving traveler, and luckily it’s located right on the former Toshimaen Amusement Park site – only a two-minute stroll from Toshimaen station which will be getting its own makeover to fit in with the Harry Potter Vibes.
You can get there directly from Ikebukuro station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line.
However, be sure to check our opening times calendar before booking your visit since we like to keep things fresh year-round.
There are also parking options exclusively available to our visitors, but space is limited so advanced purchase is necessary. If you’ll require disabled parking or have an electric vehicle needing charging capabilities, fear not – we’ve got exclusive areas close by for those specific needs.
Traveling via bus? We can accommodate that too with pre-booked special spots at 5k JPY each; simply reach out to our Visitor Services Team in advance. And don’t worry about leaving your trusty bicycle behind either as there are bike-only spaces directly outside of the Studio Tour entrance – just kindly show off your tickets when seeking assistance upon arrival (we’re always here if ya need us.).
