Updated November 12, 2024

Hayao Miyazaki is arguably the most famous contemporary Japanese film director.  He’s known for his award winning animated movies such as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro.  Due to his incredible success, it’s only natural to have a whole museum space dedicated to his craft.

(photo by maodoltee)

The Ghibli Museum is located in the Mitaka area of Tokyo.  Getting there is not difficult, but getting in is entirely another story.  Tickets are exclusively available to people living in Japan through the convenience store ticketing machines.  They are released at the beginning of every month and sell out very quickly.  However, you’re in luck if you live outside Japan because you can order them online!  The official website lays the process out very clearly here.  It’s worth visiting this museum, especially if you’re a big Ghibli fan.

(photo by maodoltee)

The whole of the museum property looks straight out of a Ghibli film.  All of the architectural decisions were wonderfully executed to add to a fantastical museum experience.  The museum is appropriate for visitors of all ages.  I was particularly jealous of the small children who, unlike me and my grown adult friend, were able to play on the larger than life sized Cat Bus.  Visitors can walk through rooms decorated like Miyazaki’s studio space and see original drawings and cells from the animation process.  Photographs inside the museum are strictly prohibited.  I assume it has something to do with maintaining the mystery and conjuring up some excitement about what’s inside.  The entrance fee also includes a ticket to a screening of an exclusive film only available for view at the museum.  The films are always changing so each visit is a different experience.  Make sure to double check the website before you go so you can read more about the special exhibitions.

(photo by mytruestory)

There is also a themed cafe on the property that serves beautifully plated meals and desserts.  Even if there’s a bit of a wait and it’s cold outside, there is a heated tent with seats and books for you to wait in.  And of course, no museum trip is complete without a gift shop.  Ghibli Museum’s shop is so full of everything from precious stuffed animals to home decorations.  It's impossible to leave empty-handed.

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Written by Carly Susman (www.carly-rose.com)
Follow for more @carlycarbonate

Check out our Ghibli Museum Tours Here：

Ghibli Museum & Ghibli Film Appreciation Bus Tour

Mitakanomori Ghibli Museum and Inokashira Park Walking Tour