Enchanted Realms of Animation: Exploring the Ghibli Museum, Mitaka

When I was a freshman at a university in Japan, Hayao Miyazaki’s “My Neighbor Totoro” was released. Initially, I was not particularly interested in anime, so I didn’t watch the “Totoro” movie until two years after its debut. When I finally saw the film, I was struck by its uniqueness; it was far from being just another animated movie. Miyazaki’s films, I realized, adeptly tackle complex social issues, weaving intricate and meaningful narratives that transcend typical animation. His ability to delicately blend challenging topics with the artistry of animation not only entertains but also educates and provokes thought, setting his work apart in the genre.

Please check out our article, Top 10 Must-Visit Museums in Japan, which includes Ghibli!

The Ghibli Museum, located in the verdant outskirts of Tokyo in Mitaka, stands as a vibrant testament to the imaginative world of Studio Ghibli and its co-founder, Miyazaki Hayao. This whimsical edifice, more than just a museum, is an embodiment of the studio’s ethos, encapsulating the enchanting spirit of their iconic films like “My Neighbor Totoro,” “Princess Mononoke,” “Spirited Away,” and “Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea.”

A Whimsical Design Reflecting Enchanting Narratives
The museum’s design mirrors the distinct style of Studio Ghibli’s films. Visitors are greeted by a life-sized robot from “Castle in the Sky” in the rooftop garden, setting the tone for an experience steeped in fantasy and creative wonder. The Ghibli Museum’s interior, a labyrinth of tiny doors, winding staircases, and hidden corners, beautifully recreates the mood of the Ghibli universe, inviting visitors into a world where fantasy seamlessly blends with reality.

A Deep Dive into the World of Animation
The Ghibli Museum’s first floor offers a captivating glimpse into the history and techniques of animation. It features a small theater showcasing exclusive short movies by Studio Ghibli, a treat for both aficionados and newcomers to the studio’s work. The second floor houses ever-changing special temporary exhibitions, ensuring that each visit offers something new.

Celebrating Artistic Mastery and Creativity
Miyazaki’s vision for Studio Ghibli was to create worlds so intricate and lush that they felt real, irrespective of the fantastical events unfolding within them. This philosophy is evident in the Ghibli Museum’s exhibitions. One room meticulously recreates a Ghibli art director’s studio, complete with the minutiae of an animator’s life. The emphasis on background art, a signature of Studio Ghibli’s style, is celebrated through various displays, highlighting how nature, engineering, and abstract art inspired the studio’s mesmerizing films.

Interactive and Immersive Exhibits
The museum features interactive exhibits, including life-size recreations of film settings, like the interior of the flying ships from “Laputa.” Children (and the young at heart) can explore these fantastical spaces, opening drawers and discovering hidden treasures. A special delight is the giant plush catbus from “My Neighbor Totoro,” available for children to climb inside and explore.

More than Just a Museum
The Ghibli Museum also houses a café, a children’s play area, a rooftop garden, and a gift shop, offering a holistic experience. The no-photography policy inside the museum adds to its mystique, encouraging visitors to fully immerse themselves in the moment.

Engaging and Informative Staff
The Ghibli Museum’s English-speaking staff are well-versed in all things Studio Ghibli, ready to answer questions and share insights into the studio’s filmmaking process. This personal touch adds depth to the experience, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the films and the effort that goes into creating them.

Practical Information for Visitors
Tickets: Advance booking is essential, with tickets available up to four months in advance from overseas travel agents or one month in advance through Lawson’s online ticket portal. Prices range from ¥1000 for adults to free for children under 3.
Getting There: The museum is accessible from Kichijōji Station by a 30-minute walk through Inokashira Park or a 20-minute minibus ride from Mitaka Station.

The Ghibli Museum is not just a showcase of Studio Ghibli’s work; it is an immersive journey into the heart of animation, a place where art, imagination, and meticulous craftsmanship come together to celebrate the magic of storytelling.