The Ghibli Museum is a magical museum outside Tokyo that features the animation work of Studio Ghibli. Studio Ghibli is known for Totoro, the giant cuddly cat creature in classic Japanese animation films.
I remember watching a few of Studio Ghibli’s classics in Japanese class, so visiting the museum was on the top of my list. But on our first trip to Tokyo in 2015, tickets to the Studio Ghibli Museum were sold out!
Super bummer. ????
Fortunately, I got my anime/manga fix the Kyoto International Manga Museum instead, but I vowed to visit the Studio Ghibli Museum next time. On our return trip in 2016 as part of our Island Hopper/Philippines/Tokyo we scored tickets and visited the fantasy world of a museum.
What You’ll See At The Studio Ghibli Museum
The museum is divided up into cozy sections for you to explore. Unfortunately, no photography is allowed inside, but some of the highlights inside the museum include:
- Short Film Theater – You get to watch a short animated film from the Studio. Right now, it’s featuring Koro’s Big Walk (2016).
- History of Animation – Shows you how animation works through a variety of mechanical displays and exhibits.
- Where a Film is Born – Elaborate multi-room display of how a film is made.
- Catbus Room – Replica of the Catbus from Totoro. Great for kids.
- Spiral Staircase – There’s a suuuuper small spiral staircase that you walk up to the top floor. I would not recommend this if you’re a regular sized person.
Expect to spend about 2 hours, more or less, depending on how fast you go through the exhibits.
Outside, the museum itself is designed as an exhibit too. Here’s what the outside looks like.
On the Rooftop Garden, you’ll see a lifesize replica of the robot from Castle in the Sky.
And some great views from the top.
How to Get Tickets
Tickets to the Studio Ghibli Museum must be purchased in advance. They don’t sell tickets at the door. Here are your options to purchasing tickets:
- In-person at Lawsons (it’s like a 7-11)
- Online via Lawsons
- Online via JTB (a travel agency)
Option 1 is a no-go IMO. I wouldn’t recommend this for visitors since it’ll most likely be sold out during your trip since you’re buying it last minute. Wouldn’t hurt to check though. Instructions via the link above.
Option 2 is a new method. Seems straightforward enough.
Option 3 is what we did. After ordering online, we picked it up at the JTB office in New York. You can also have the tickets shipped. Apparently, shipping is free if you order a JR Rail Pass (which you should if you’re going to spend time outside of Tokyo).
Getting to the Museum
The Studio Ghibli Museum is quick 20 minute train ride from Shinjuku Station. Add on a 15 walk to the Museum or 10 minute bus ride from the Mitaka Station to the Museum.
If you choose to walk, which enables you to consume more delicious bowls of ramen, you’ll get to check out one of Tokyo’s oldest suburbs. It’s a big contrast to the big city and worth the stroll.
Wrap Up
If you’re an Japanese animation fan, or just want to learn more about some of the classics, the Ghibli Museum is a must visit. Exhibits and films are all in Japanese. Expect to spend about half a day total including transportation.
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