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The Ghibli Museum in Japan is a dream destination for Studio Ghibli fans and anime lovers. Surrounded by the greenery of Mitaka, Tokyo, this magical museum brings Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved worlds to life. From Totoro welcoming visitors at the entrance to life-sized Catbus exhibits and original short films, every corner of the museum is an enchanting experience. If you’re planning a visit, this guide will cover everything, from Ghibli Museum timings to its ticket prices, so you don’t miss out on this extraordinary place.
Quick Overview Ghibli Museum
Location: Inokashira Park in Mitaka
Opening Date: 1 October 2001
Features: It combines features of a children’s museum, a technology museum, and a fine arts museum and is dedicated to the art and technique of animation.
Design: The museum has spiral staircases, interior bridges, and balconies. Miyazaki aimed to make the building itself part of the exhibit.
Entry Fee: Ages 19+ JPY 1,000; Ages 13 to 18. JPY 700; Ages 7 to 12. JPY 400; Ages 4 to 6. JPY 100; Ages 3 and under free.
Location
Photo: cowardlion / Shuttertsock
The Ghibli Museum is located in Mitaka, Tokyo, a peaceful suburb known for its charming atmosphere and parks. It’s set within the Inokashira Park, making it a perfect spot to explore both the museum and the surrounding nature. Unlike traditional museums, the Ghibli Museum is an interactive space designed to make visitors feel like they have stepped into a Studio Ghibli film. The interior of the museum is nothing less than an anime scene. Once you walk through the doors, you feel like you are transported to another dimension.
How To Reach
Photo: Mister0124 / Wikimedia Commons
By Train: Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Mitaka Station (about 20 minutes). From Mitaka Station, it’s a 15-minute walk or a 5-minute bus ride to the museum.
By Bus: The museum offers a special Ghibli Museum Bus from Mitaka Station, which runs every 10–20 minutes.
By Taxi/Car: Taxis are available, but parking is limited. Public transport is the best option.
Things To Do At Ghibli Museum
When visiting the Ghibli Museum, here are some activities and things you can do to enjoy your visit.
1. Watch An Exclusive Ghibli Short Film
Photo: Wei-Te Wong / Wikimedia Commons
The Saturn Theatre offers an enchanting experience for animation lovers, featuring exclusive Studio Ghibli short films that can’t be seen anywhere else. This cosy, immersive venue captures the magic of hand-drawn animation, making each screening feel special. With a nostalgic ambiance, beautifully curated decor, and occasional behind-the-scenes insights, it’s a must-visit for Ghibli fans. Enjoy rare gems like ‘Mei and the Kittenbus’ in an intimate cinematic setting.
2. Meet Totoro And The Catbus
You can meet the lovable Totoro and the whimsical Catbus at the Ghibli Museum! This magical space brings Ghibli’s animation to life with stunning exhibits, interactive displays, and even a life-sized Catbus for kids to climb aboard as Totoro himself greets every visitor at the entrance. Don’t miss the exclusive short films shown only at the museum—each visit promises a new, heartwarming surprise.
3. Try Shortcake At Straw Hat Café
Photo: Ksenia Chernaya / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Indulge in the delightful shortcake at Straw Hat Café, a charming spot nestled within the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo. This fluffy, moist sponge cake is layered with light, airy whipped cream and topped with fresh, juicy strawberries, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Every bite feels like a scene from a Ghibli film, nostalgic, heartwarming, and magical.
Places To Visit Near Ghibli Museum, Japan
The Ghibli Museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens, an interesting observatory, and bustling markets. Here are a few places you must visit near the Ghibli Museum.
1. Inokashira Park
Photo: KimonBerlin / Wikimedia Commons
If you are looking for a variety of experiences at a short distance, this is the place to go. From cafes to zoos, Inokashira Park has it all. Visitors can rent rowboats and paddle boats to take a fun ride through the park’s pond. If you are visiting the Ghibli Museum, you have to walk through this park, as the museum sits at the end of the park. It is a popular spot to visit during spring, thanks to its 500 or more cherry blossom trees.
Location: Gotenyama, Musashino City, Mitaka, Tokyo
Timings: Open 24 hours
Major Attractions: Boat Rides, Park Library, Benzaiten Shrine, Musashiao-no-Mori Forest
2. National Astronomical Observatory Of Japan
Photo: Yasu / Wikimedia Commons
Do you look up at night, being enchanted by the fireballs that blaze throughout the dark sky? The National Astronomical Observatory of Japan is the place you must visit. Established in 1988 to research space and its hidden secrets, NAOJ is a paradise for astronomers and astrophysicists. The main goal of the observatory is to find solutions to Tokyo’s pollution issues. But besides that, it is also the location of the 2000-year-old burial mound, Tenmondai-Konai Kofun, and a 100-year-old house that has been turned into a children’s reading room.
Location: Osawa, Mitaka, Tokyo
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Major Attractions: 4D2U Dome Theatre, Refracting telescopes, Stargazing events
3. Harmonica Alley
Photo: Stele5cats / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as Harmonica Yokocho, Harmonica Alley is a charming and nostalgic alleyway that will leave you enthralled. It is a small atmospheric alleyway packed with tiny shops and cafes. If you want to experience old Tokyo, this is the place to go. Here you can sample mouthwatering Japanese cuisines such as yakitori and ramen while shopping for vintage clothes and other accessories. This is the perfect place to buy souvenirs for your Japan trip.
Location: Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino, Tokyo
Major Attractions: Unique shops, Comedian Akagawa Masayoshi’s statue, Sun Square
Where To Stay
Photo: Max Vakhtbovycn / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Staying in Mitaka or Kichijoji offers a peaceful retreat while keeping you close to Tokyo’s vibrant culture. For luxury, Kichijoji Excel Hotel Tokyo boasts elegant rooms, while The Micro Museum Hostel Kichijoji is a stylish mid-range choice. Budget travellers can opt for Mitaka City Hotel or Kichijoji Dai-ichi Hotel, both offering comfort at great prices. For a traditional touch, Ryokan Shigetsu and Takaone Ryokan feature cosy tatami rooms.
Where To Eat
Photo: Rasul Yarichev 🇦🇪 / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
After exploring the whimsical world of the Ghibli Museum, head to Straw Hat Café for delightful Ghibli-themed treats and organic meals. Nearby, Kichijoji Harmonica Yokocho offers a variety of local flavours, from sizzling yakitori to fresh sushi. Savour rich broth at Ramen Nagi, or indulge in tempura at Tensuke. Jazz lovers can enjoy live music at Sometime Jazz Club, while coffee enthusiasts will love Blue Sky Coffee. For a fusion twist, try Steakhouse Satou for its famous wagyu beef or Inokashira Park Café for a scenic lakeside meal.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Wei-Te Wong / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo, is during weekdays in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. Avoid Japanese school holidays such as summer breaks, Golden Week, and New Year holidays, as the museum gets crowded with local students during this period.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Wei-Te Wong / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
When you are in Japan, a trip to the Ghibli Museum is approximately ¥5,300 JPY (around ₹3,180 INR). This includes the entrance fee of ¥1,000 JPY, transportation costs of about ¥800 JPY (round trip), ¥1,500 JPY for food, and ¥2,000 JPY for souvenirs. Costs may vary based on personal preferences, so it’s wise to budget for additional expenses.
Tips For Travellers
- Tickets sell out quickly and must be purchased ahead of time.
- Follow the museum’s policy and enjoy the experience.
- The museum operates on timed entry slots, so arrive at least 15 minutes before your slot.
- After your visit, take a stroll through the beautiful park.
- Parking is limited, so trains and buses are the best options.
The Ghibli Museum is an unforgettable journey into the magical world of Studio Ghibli. It is a nostalgic spot for all anime lovers, reminding us of the beauty of the stories told by Ghibli in the last 4 decades. Whether you are a fan of Spirited Away or Totoro, this whimsical place will bring your favourite movies to life. With stunning exhibits, short films, and charming photo spots, it’s a must-visit in Tokyo. Don’t miss your chance to step into Miyazaki’s world; book your trip with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: cowardlion / Shutterstock
