Have you seen Spirited Away? Remember No-Face and all the quirky characters in the bathhouse? Or perhaps you’ve met Totoro, the adorable creature that looks like a mix between a cat, an owl, and a racoon? If you’re a fan of Ghibli films, then you’ll love visiting the Mitaka Forest Ghibli Museum, also known simply as the Ghibli Museum. In this guide, you’ll find out how to get tickets for the Ghibli Museum and everything you need to know about your visit to this special place.
Mitaka Forest Ghibli Museum
The Mitaka Forest Ghibli Museum is a unique attraction that celebrates the animation and artwork of Miyazaki Hayao’s Studio Ghibli, one of Japan’s most famous animation studios. Ghibli has produced many beloved films with worldwide recognition, such as My Neighbour Totoro, Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, and Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea.
The Ghibli Museum is located in Mitaka City, and you’ll enter it through the beautiful Inokashira Park. Hayao Miyazaki himself was deeply involved in the creation of the museum, which opened its doors in 2001. As the name suggests, the Ghibli Museum houses a large collection of exhibits related to the films and projects of Studio Ghibli.
Even if you’re not familiar with Studio Ghibli, the Ghibli Museum is worth a visit. The museum itself is stunning, and its exhibits might spark a newfound curiosity for art and animation. It showcases the beauty and history of Japanese animation, manga, and art in a way that’s sure to inspire.
Visiting Mitaka Forest Ghibli Museum
Since photography and videography are prohibited inside the museum, you won’t find many pictures of the exhibits, which adds a sense of mystery. The only photos available are of the exterior and the famous robot from Laputa on the rooftop. It’s refreshing to enter a museum where the experience remains a surprise.
The Ghibli Museum spans two floors and includes a rooftop garden, a café, and a children’s play area—there’s something for everyone. The first floor delves into the history of animation and the techniques used to create the films we all love. One exclusive feature is a collection of short films that are shown only at the Ghibli Museum.
The second floor is dedicated to special exhibits that are regularly updated. These might include glimpses into the sketchbooks of writers and illustrators, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at how these films and shows are planned and developed from the early stages.
How to Get Tickets for Ghibli Museum
Getting tickets to the Ghibli Museum can be tricky. Tickets go on sale on the 10th of every month and often sell out quickly. You can buy them online or at a Lawson Store, though most of the information is only in Japanese. If visiting the Ghibli Museum is a priority, be sure to secure your tickets as soon as they’re available, or consider using an agency, such as ours, to help book them in advance.
Despite their exclusivity, Ghibli Museum tickets are affordable. Tickets for visitors aged 19 and over are 1,000 JPY, for ages 13 to 18 they are 700 JPY, ages 7 to 12 are 400 JPY, children aged 4 to 6 cost 100 JPY, and those aged 3 and under can enter for free.
Quick Tips for Your Visit
As mentioned, Ghibli Museum tickets sell out fast, so grab them as soon as they’re available. Buying online is likely the easiest option, but it can be a bit confusing. Be prepared and ready at your computer at the time of sale, or head to Lawson before 10 a.m. to avoid disappointment.
Inside the museum, there are beautiful spiral staircases, so wear comfortable, flat shoes to move around with ease. It’s also best to avoid wearing dresses or skirts, as they may not be ideal for climbing the stairs.
There is one café inside the Ghibli Museum, offering meals inspired by the studio’s most famous films, along with unique drinks and desserts. However, the café often has a queue, so if you want to dine there, aim for the earliest slot (10:00 a.m.) and head straight to the café after entering the museum. Otherwise, be prepared to wait.
If you want a photo with the robot from Laputa, found on the rooftop, this spot is also very popular. To snap a picture without a crowd in the background, visit the rooftop as soon as you arrive.
Though the Ghibli Museum isn’t huge, and you can tour it in one or two hours, it’s a magical place where you can truly feel the spirit of Studio Ghibli. It’s a testament to the incredible talent and hard work poured into every film and piece of artwork.
Visiting the Studio Ghibli Museum, or the Mitaka Forest Ghibli Museum, is a delightful and unforgettable experience for any fan or newcomer alike.
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