Welcome to Ghibli World !Let’s step into the world of Ghibli

How popular is Ghibli in Japan?

Studio Ghibli enjoys immense popularity in Japan as well.
However, the way it is cherished here is a little different from how it is appreciated overseas.
In Japan, Ghibli is more than just animation—it is considered a part of life.

In this section, we will explore the history of Studio Ghibli and how it has become deeply woven into the everyday lives of the Japanese people.

How did Ghibli begin in Japan?

The world of Studio Ghibli was born from the unique vision and deep sensitivity of directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata.
They have expressed themes such as life, personal growth, and a deep love for nature through the art of animation.

Hayao Miyazaki, in particular, draws inspiration from his childhood experiences, his admiration for nature, and his strong beliefs about peace and environmental issues. These elements are reflected in his works, creating fantasy worlds that still feel grounded in reality.

Studio Ghibli also maintains a strong commitment to hand-drawn animation. The detailed backgrounds and the subtle, expressive movements of the characters contribute greatly to the richness of Ghibli’s storytelling.

This beautiful and immersive world has been embraced by audiences around the globe, earning Ghibli films worldwide recognition and admiration.

Ghibli = Life!? How Ghibli is part of everyday life in Japan

One of the biggest differences between how Studio Ghibli is embraced in Japan and overseas is that, in Japan, it is seen as a part of everyday life.

Outside of Japan, Ghibli is often viewed simply as fun and entertaining animation.
In contrast, many people in Japan incorporate Ghibli into personal moments such as Halloween, birthdays, and other life events.

Let’s take a look at some photos that show how Studio Ghibli has become a meaningful part of daily life for people in Japan.

This is a cake inspired by Studio Ghibli characters.
Ghibli fans in Japan often have cakes like this to celebrate their birthdays together with their favorite characters.

Halloween is a wonderful opportunity to dress up as your favorite character.
During Halloween, many people enjoy wearing Studio Ghibli costumes and celebrating together.

Japanese people’s strong passion for Ghibli

In Japan, many people wish to support Studio Ghibli financially as well.
Therefore, a large number of people watch Ghibli films in theaters to show their support for the studio.
Thanks to this support, for example, the film Spirited Away earned approximately 2.5 billion US dollars (316.8 billion yen) in Japan, making it the second highest-grossing film in the country’s history.

It’s truly impressive to see so many people supporting anime.
If you find yourself thinking, “Anime is amazing!” or “I wonder how anime is created,”
we invite you to take a look at the tours offered by Motenas Japan.

Do you love Studio Ghibli? Have you ever dreamed of stepping into the world of Ghibli?
If so, Ghibli Park is something you won’t want to miss.

This theme park faithfully recreates the world of Studio Ghibli, allowing you to feel as if you’ve truly entered one of its iconic films.

In this article, we will introduce five must-see areas in Ghibli Park that we especially recommend to true Ghibli fans.

#1 Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse

This area offers an immersive experience of the world of Studio Ghibli. You can explore rooms themed after various Ghibli films, take photos with exhibits that recreate beloved characters and iconic scenes, watch short films, and shop for exclusive souvenirs.

Please note： that the “Scene Recreation Exhibit,” where you can pose with life-size reproductions of famous scenes, is very popular and often has long wait times. If the wait is around 30 to 40 minutes, it is well worth it. However, if the line is longer, we recommend enjoying the other exhibitions instead, as it may take up a significant portion of your visit.

#2 Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse Cafe ‘Transcontinental Flight’

After exploring the Grand Warehouse, take a break and relax at this café. The menu features sandwiches and pizzas inspired by meals that long-distance pilots might enjoy with one hand while flying—hearty, easy-to-eat options perfect for a quick and satisfying rest.

Opening Hours:
Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Weekends & Holidays: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
(Last order at 4:30 PM on all days)

#3 Flying Oven

Would you like to try desserts inspired by Studio Ghibli? If so, this place is highly recommended. Located near the entrance of Witch Valley, this restaurant offers witch-themed desserts and light meals at affordable prices ranging from $5 to $25. There is also a rooftop garden where you can relax and enjoy your time.

Opening Hours:
Weekdays: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Weekends & Holidays: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
(Last order at 4:30 PM on all days)

#4 Dondoko Forest

Would you like to experience Japanese culture as seen in Studio Ghibli films? If so, this area is highly recommended. Here, you can enjoy a traditional charcoal-grilled Gohei-mochi experience, inspired by the movie “Princess Mononoke.” Additionally, there are sculptures and rest areas themed around “Princess Mononoke” for you to relax and appreciate.

#5 The Adventure Flight Squadron

Since you’ve come all the way to Ghibli Park, wouldn’t you like to take home a special souvenir? If so, we highly recommend this place. Located inside the Grand Warehouse, it is the largest main shop among the five areas of Ghibli Park. In addition to goods related to all of Studio Ghibli’s feature films, it offers original merchandise exclusive to Ghibli Park.

Opening Hours:
Weekdays: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Weekends & Holidays: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

How to make a reservation

Studio Ghibli Park offers six types of tickets, but here we will introduce two value set tickets that allow you to explore various areas.

#1 Ghibli Park O-Sanpo Day Pass Premium

Ghibli Park Grand Walk Premium Ticket which grants admission to all five areas of the park. Additionally, for an extra fee, you can enjoy cafes, restaurants, shops, as well as playground equipment and rides.

Please note: Only the “Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse” area requires a designated entry time.

Pricing	Adults	Children (Ages 4 to Elementary School)
Weekdays	¥7,300	¥3,650
Weekends & Holidays	¥7,800	¥3,900

Where can we visit
All five areas	〇
Cafés and restaurants in all areas	〇
Shops in all areas	〇
Rides in all areas	〇

#2 Ghibli Park O-Sanpo Day Pass Standard

This ticket allows you to visit three areas: “Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse,” “Mononoke Village,” and “Witch’s Valley.”
Additionally, for an extra fee, you can enjoy cafes, restaurants, shops, as well as playground equipment and rides.
Please note: Only the “Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse” area requires a designated entry time.

Pricing	Adults	Children (4 years old to elementary school)
Weekdays	¥3,300	¥1,650
Weekends & Holidays	¥3,800	¥1,900

Where can we visit
Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse	〇
Mononoke Village	〇
Valley of Witches	〇
Cafe and restaurant located within the three themed areas	〇
Shops located within the three themed areas	〇
the other areas besides Grand Warehouse, Mononoke Village, and Valley of Witches	×
Restaurants, cafes, and shops located in areas other than Grand Warehouse, Mononoke Village, and Valley of Witches	×

You can make your ticket reservation from here

Don’t worry! MOTENAS Japan will support you!

Even if you find it difficult to reserve tickets, please don’t give up. We at Motenas Japan are here to support you. Our mission is to help you enjoy a comfortable and memorable trip to Japan. If you have any questions or concerns about traveling in Japan, feel free to contact us anytime.

If you’d like to experience more of Japanese culture, please feel free to take a look at the following resources.