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 around the directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, the studio has produced many beloved animated films. The word "Ghibli" is an Italian word that refers to 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 located in the city of Musashino, Tokyo, in an area known as Kichijoji. On August 6, 1992, it moved to its own building in the city of Koganei, Tokyo. Located about an eight-minute walk from JR Higashi-Koganei Station, it continues to operate there today. The outside of Studio Ghibli looks as if it’s covered in the roots of trees and many vines. This is a unique design that 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 around the world. 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 on those who watch it.

Many people around the world have developed an interest in Japanese culture through Japanese animation. In recent years, an increasing number of foreign tourists have been visiting Japan to buy Japanese animation-related products. Among these visitors 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 that are shown exclusively at the museum. 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 can feel as if they’re the main characters in their favorite Studio Ghibli movies as they immerse themselves in the worlds of those films. 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.