Studio Ghibli

Many companies across Japan create cartoons. Among them, Studio Ghibli is, without a doubt, the most well-known. Its popularity extends far beyond Japan, and it’s renowned for creating some of the world's most beloved animated films. They have fans across the globe.

Studio Ghibli opened its doors on June 15th, 1985. Established by the directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, the studio has produced many beloved animated films. The word "Ghibli" is Italian for a hot wind that blows across the Sahara Desert. The name reflects the founders' desire to spark a new wave of excitement in Japan's animation industry. Almost all of the films that Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata released after “Laputa: Castle in the Sky” were released under the Studio Ghibli name.

Studio Ghibli was originally based in Musashino, Tokyo, in the area of Kichijoji. On August 6, 1992, it moved to Koganei, Tokyo. It’s now located about an eight-minute walk from JR Higashi-Koganei Station. The building looks like it’s covered in tree roots and vines. This unique design creates a natural atmosphere. Unfortunately, the studio doesn’t offer tours of its offices, so fans cannot catch a glimpse of what lies behind those walls.

With animated films such as My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away, Studio Ghibli has created many masterpieces. As mentioned, these films are loved not only in Japan but also worldwide. The studio has helped introduce Japanese animation to a global audience, showing people (around the world) just how wonderful it can be. Of course, Studio Ghibli is not the only animation studio in Japan producing outstanding films. However, few other studios create animated films with the same level of detail and craftsmanship. Every Studio Ghibli film is beautiful, and each one leaves a lasting impression.

Many people around the world have developed an interest in Japanese culture through Japanese animation. In recent years, many foreign tourists have been visiting Japan to buy Japanese animation-related products. Among these tourists are (likely) many who come specifically to purchase Studio Ghibli merchandise. In addition to shopping, many tourists visit Japan to see the Ghibli Museum, Mitaka. Opened on October 1, 2001, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the magic behind how Studio Ghibli creates its animated films. Visitors can also watch short films produced by Studio Ghibli not shown elsewhere. Many foreign tourists also visit Ghibli Park. Opened on November 1, 2022, the park allows visitors to step into the world of Studio Ghibli and enter buildings featured in its films. Visitors will feel like the main characters in their favorite Studio Ghibli movies as they immerse themselves in the various worlds. These are must-visit destinations for Studio Ghibli fans.

As mentioned, the worlds of Studio Ghibli can be enjoyed not only through its animated films. At the Ghibli Museum, Mitaka and Ghibli Park, visitors can step right into the worlds created by Studio Ghibli and experience them firsthand. However, these are not the only places where fans can immerse themselves in the worlds of Studio Ghibli. Several locations across Japan also offer visitors the chance to experience settings that inspired or resemble those depicted in Studio Ghibli films. In the articles below, we introduce places throughout Japan where visitors can experience the worlds of Studio Ghibli. We also provide information about what each location has to offer. We hope Studio Ghibli fans will find this information helpful as they explore the worlds of their favorite Studio Ghibli films.