Looking for more information about visiting Ghibli Park? You’ve come to the right place. We’re self-declared fans of the magical world of Studio Ghibli. We grew up dreaming of enchanted forests, mysterious creatures, and worlds where imagination has no limits. As Hayao Miyazaki himself said in a rare interview with The New York Times, “reality is not enough for us — we need worlds where the soul can breathe.” It’s that need for wonder that made us fall in love with this studio.
During one of our trips to Japan, we started looking for different experiences, away from the usual tourist trails. That’s how, on our third visit to the country in 2025, Ghibli Park popped onto our radar — and with it, the city of Nagoya. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the Aichi region, where the park is located, has been growing in popularity precisely because of this new cultural attraction.
We had already heard about this theme park inspired by Studio Ghibli movies, but we had no idea how special it would be. We decided it was time to dive into the magical world we had seen so many times on screen — and experience it in real life. As Toshio Suzuki, producer at Studio Ghibli, explained during the park’s opening press conference: “Ghibli Park was not created to thrill with adrenaline, but to move with memory and detail.”
This guide is for you, who also love Ghibli films and want to know how to visit Ghibli Park without stress. You’ll find practical tips, everything you need to organize your visit, and our personal experience.
Spoiler: this isn’t a theme park like the others. There are no roller coasters, but there’s plenty of attention to detail, emotion, and nostalgia. As the official website says: “This is a place to walk, feel, and discover — like in Ghibli stories.”
Important note: planning your visit in advance is essential. Tickets go on sale two months ahead and sell out quickly — so it’s a good idea to stay alert and book yours as early as possible. You can buy them online via Klook or through the Japanese platform Lawson.
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Where is Ghibli Park and How to Get There
Ghibli Park is located inside Moricoro Park, in Aichi Prefecture, near Nagoya in central Japan. It’s a perfect stop for anyone traveling through Japan and looking to include something off the beaten path.
Moricoro Park is huge, and only a part of it is dedicated to Ghibli Park. There are five themed areas based on the Ghibli universe, but the rest of the park is a peaceful green space — perfect for walking, having a picnic, or exploring other attractions not directly related to the studio.
If you’re in Tokyo, you can take a shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagoya — the trip takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. From Kyoto or Osaka, travel time is even shorter: between 35 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the train.
From central Nagoya, it’s an easy route:
- Take the yellow subway line (Higashiyama Line) to Fujigaoka Station (about 30 minutes).
- Then transfer to the Linimo line (a modern, silent maglev train) and ride to Ai-Chikyuhaku-Kinen-Koen Station — the park’s official entrance.
Use your IC transport card, like Suica or Pasmo — they work on both the subway and Linimo lines. If you use an iPhone, you can add the card directly to your Wallet and top it up with Apple Pay. We recommend using a no-foreign-exchange-fee bank card to avoid extra charges.
How to Buy Tickets for Ghibli Park
Buying tickets for Ghibli Park can be a challenge — but with the right tips, you can secure your entry.
There are two main ways to buy them:
Tickets to visit Ghibli Park go on sale two months before the visit date, always on the 10th of the month (for example, July tickets are sold on May 10). And they sell out very fast.
We tried buying through Klook as soon as it opened, but there were no tickets left for our desired dates. We ended up getting them through Lawson, with some effort and a bit of luck.
There are different types of tickets depending on the areas of the park you want to visit. There are single tickets for specific zones and combo tickets that include several areas. Prices vary depending on the combination and day of the week, but they range from around 1,000 yen (for smaller zones) to 3,500 yen (for the full ticket).
We chose the ticket that gives access to all 5 zones and lets you choose a time slot for entering the Grand Warehouse. At the entrance to the Grand Warehouse, we exchanged our ticket for a wristband that gives access to the other 4 areas of the park. You can exchange it at any other entrance before 12:00, which means you can plan your visit to explore other parts of the park first and book the Grand Warehouse for later.
How the Park is Organized
Ghibli Park is divided into five main zones, each inspired by different movies and environments from the Studio Ghibli universe. They’re all located inside Moricoro Park but are a bit spread out — so it’s worth planning your time carefully and knowing exactly what your ticket includes.
Ghibli Park Areas
Even though all the zones are part of Ghibli Park, they’re not all right next to each other — so it’s a good idea to check the official map before your visit to get oriented. There are walking paths, green spaces, and clear signage, but the time between zones can vary. For example, between the Grand Warehouse and Dondoko Forest, you’ll need to take a shuttle or walk about 20 minutes.
Here’s an overview of the areas:
1. Grand Warehouse
This is the largest zone in the park and, for us, the absolute highlight. It has interactive exhibitions, movie sets recreated in detail, original props, shops, and even a small food court. You can take photos with the robot from Laputa, step into the bathhouse from Spirited Away, and feel like you’re inside a Ghibli movie.
2. Dondoko Forest
Located further away, this area is dedicated to the world of My Neighbor Totoro. This is where you’ll find the full-scale house of Mei and Satsuki. The atmosphere is super peaceful and surrounded by nature. The name comes from Totoro Dondoko Taiko, the dance he does with the girls near the tree.
3. Hill of Youth
This area is inspired by films like Castle in the Sky and Whisper of the Heart. There’s a building that recreates the antique shop from the movie, along with other small details fans will recognize. It’s one of the calmer areas, nice to visit at a slower pace.
4. Mononoke Village
This area takes you straight into the world of Princess Mononoke. There are life-size replicas of the creatures and buildings inspired by the Tatara village. The vibe is more rustic, with lots of wood and stone. It really feels like being in the middle of the forest.
5. Valley of Witches (opened in March 2024)
The newest zone in the park, dedicated to films like Howl’s Moving Castle, Kiki’s Delivery Service, and Earwig and the Witch. You’ll find Howl’s castle, shops, recreated houses, and a small amusement park with a more playful vibe. It was one of the areas that surprised us the most!
Which Areas Require an Extra Reservation?
Not all areas can be accessed with the same ticket — and some require a specific time slot reservation:
- Grand Warehouse – This is the main and busiest area. It always requires a time-specific reservation.
- Dondoko Forest – Also needs a specific ticket, with timed entry to visit Mei and Satsuki’s house.
- Valley of Witches – Since its recent opening, this area might require a reservation depending on the season.
- Hill of Youth and Mononoke Village – These might be included in some combo tickets, but it’s best to check when purchasing.
Tip: Read the ticket description carefully before buying. Some tickets are only for the Grand Warehouse, others combine two or more areas, and some dates include special events. The one we got included all 5 zones.
First Impressions and Park Atmosphere
Our Ghibli Park experience started even before entering the themed zones. Arriving at Moricoro Park already gives you a good idea of what to expect: a vast space surrounded by nature, with wide paths, grassy areas, and buildings scattered across the land. It’s not a typical amusement park — it’s a natural park with Studio Ghibli attractions well integrated into the landscape.
Right outside Ai-Chikyuhaku-Kinen-Koen Station, there’s a support area with some restaurants, a convenience store, and restrooms. It’s a good place for a quick bite before entering Ghibli Park. From here, just walk a few minutes to reach the Grand Warehouse, the main zone and usually the first stop of the visit.
How to Get Around the Park
You can easily explore all of Ghibli Park on foot, especially if you enjoy walking and have time. The areas are a bit spread out, but the paths are pleasant and surrounded by nature.
If you want to save energy, there’s a free bus that runs through Moricoro Park and stops near the main attractions, including the Ghibli Park areas.
There’s also a Catbus — inspired by the movie My Neighbor Totoro — that connects the ends of the park. This service has an additional fee and can be a convenient option if you’re with kids or want to avoid long walks.
Additionally, there are two scenic elevators that make it easier to access higher areas like the Valley of Witches viewpoint and the entrance to Dondoko Forest. These are designed mainly for visitors with limited mobility but can be used by anyone.
Stepping Into a Ghibli Film
One of the things that struck us from the start was the attention to detail. From the first building, we felt like we were inside a Studio Ghibli film. The colors, sounds, and even scents help create an immersive experience.
What makes it even more special is that many sets are interactive. You can open drawers, peek through windows, lift box lids… There’s always a little surprise waiting, as if the creators want you to discover the Ghibli world in a curious and playful way. That sense of discovery had us walking around with childlike wonder.
Organization and Atmosphere
Even though Ghibli Park is part of a public park, everything is very well organized. Entry is controlled, signage is clear in English and Japanese, and staff are kind and helpful — even if their English is limited, they always try, they have brochures in English, and they’re very attentive.
When we visited, there was a festival happening in Moricoro Park, so it was busier than usual. Still, the atmosphere inside the Ghibli areas remained calm. During the week, it’s surely even quieter, but on weekends, it’s normal to see Japanese families picnicking or strolling through the park’s gardens without even going into Ghibli Park.
It’s worth noting that this is not an amusement park like Disney or Universal. You won’t find roller coasters, loud music, or street performances. The magic here lies in the details, in the peace and in the connection with nature. It’s a space to explore slowly, enjoy the vibe, and gently dive into Studio Ghibli’s enchanted world.
Explore Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse
If there’s one area of Ghibli Park that will truly make you feel inside the studio’s magical universe, it’s the Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse. It was our first stop and honestly, it’s impossible not to be amazed right at the entrance.
The building is huge, and the inside feels like another world: streets with façades inspired by different films, gardens with giant plants, mysterious staircases, small shops, cafés, and immersive sets that make you forget you’re in a theme park. The Ghibli spirit is in every detail.
Exhibits and Cinema
Right at the entrance, you get a ticket for the mini-cinema, which is included with your Grand Warehouse access. It’s a small theater that screens exclusive animated shorts, changing throughout the year. You’re not allowed to film or take photos inside, but it’s definitely worth it – a special way to start your visit.
Inside the warehouse, there are several interactive exhibits with life-size characters, explorable sets, and hidden little “worlds” that take you from one movie to another. Some areas have queues, and others don’t allow photography, so it’s a good idea to watch the signage and stay in the moment.
Oh, and of course: there’s a Catbus! There’s one for kids – soft and full of cushions to play around – and a more realistic one in one of the exhibits. Just seeing it gave us that nostalgic smile of anyone who grew up with Totoro movies.
Details and Delights
The Grand Warehouse isn’t just to look at – it’s to experience. It’s one of those places where every corner holds a surprise. Doors that open to secret passages, moving objects, drawers with hidden messages… Everything’s designed to spark curiosity and draw you in.
There’s also a confectionery with film-inspired treats, and we couldn’t resist trying the bean paste-filled cake — a Japanese classic that’s so popular here it often sells out. If you’re curious, go early!
Finally, don’t leave without visiting the souvenir shop. It looks more like an exhibit than a store. It’s packed with collector’s items, exclusive merchandise, and little treasures that will make you want to take a piece of the park home. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s worth a look.
Satsuki and Mei’s House in Dondoko Forest
Stepping into Satsuki and Mei’s house is like jumping straight into My Neighbor Totoro. The attention to detail is incredible – even the bike by the entrance is just like the one in the film. The setting is so realistic it feels like the characters are about to appear.
The house is a faithful replica of a traditional Japanese home from the 1950s, fully set up as if someone still lived there. From the tatami mats to the kitchen tools, everything was planned down to the smallest detail. At the entrance, you’ll need to take off your shoes, as tradition demands, and then you’re free to explore.
And when we say explore, we really mean it: you can open doors, drawers, peek inside closets… there’s always a hidden surprise. One of our favorite moments was the study of Satsuki’s father, with books everywhere and a wonderful view of the lake right in front of the house. It’s one of those spaces that makes you want to stay and take it all in.
The path to the forest
After visiting the house, there’s a short trail that leads up to a viewpoint, offering a different perspective of the house and the surrounding nature. It’s a great spot to pause, snap some photos, and enjoy the peace of the park.
If you keep going uphill, you’ll reach the real Dondoko Forest, where Ghibli magic continues. There’s a special setting at the top of the hill and, with a bit of luck (or imagination), you might spot a Totoro among the trees, looking for acorns.
Tickets and access
Satsuki and Mei’s House is one of the areas that requires a specific ticket, unless you’ve bought the ticket that grants access to all five Ghibli Park zones. In that case, you can enter directly, but it’s worth checking the schedule, as entry is regulated and done in groups.
It was a truly moving experience, especially because it reminded us of the simplicity and beauty of small things — a house, a forest, a childhood. If you’re a fan of the Ghibli universe, this is one of those places that will stay in your memory.
Other Unmissable Areas of Ghibli Park
Besides the Grand Warehouse and Dondoko Forest, Ghibli Park has three more areas worth exploring. Each one has its own atmosphere, tied to different Studio Ghibli films. Some are more impressive than others, but they all add something to the experience.
Mononoke Village: the park’s wildest side
This area is inspired by the universe of Princess Mononoke and tries to recreate the forest environment and characters from the movie. Visually, it has some interesting structures, but to be honest, it was the one that left the least impression on us.
There’s an activity where you can roast mochi over a fire, which might be fun if you’re traveling with kids, but it costs an extra 1200 yen — and honestly, it didn’t feel worth the price. There’s not much else to see or explore here, so it’s likely you’ll just pass through quickly.
Hill of Youth: a tribute to “Whisper of the Heart”
This little hill has a lot of charm. The main house is based on the movie Whisper of the Heart, and it’s recreated with great detail. Inside, you’ll find a musical instrument workshop in the basement, filled with objects you can explore and interact with, making the visit even more special.
Outside, there’s also a miniature house inspired by the world of cats, which reminded us of The Cat Returns. It’s a small area, but full of little details for anyone who loves paying attention to them.
Valley of Witches: magic, color and charming details
This was definitely our favorite area in Ghibli Park. The Howl’s Moving Castle is amazing — huge, full of pipes, gears and smoke, it really looks like it might start walking at any moment. It’s a one-of-a-kind structure, only seen here.
In addition, you can visit the witch’s house from Kiki’s Delivery Service, which is beautifully recreated, with several interactive areas. There’s even a part where you can “make potions” – it’s not complicated at all, but it’s fun and perfect for photos.
This area also has a carousel, a restaurant with movie-inspired dishes, a hot dog stand, and of course, the frogs filled with sweet bean paste, which are delicious and quite popular (they often sell out). Everything here feels like it’s straight out of a magical world.
Easter Eggs in Ghibli Park: Hidden Details That Make the Visit Magical
One of the things we enjoyed the most while exploring Ghibli Park was finding the easter eggs scattered throughout the different areas. These are small hidden details – some almost imperceptible – that true fans will love spotting. They’re not just visual references: many of these secrets can be touched, activated or even heard.
The park is full of seemingly ordinary objects like boxes, benches or furniture that hold surprises if you’re curious enough to explore them. And that’s one of the biggest strengths of Ghibli Park: the invitation to discover.
Here are some of the easter eggs we found (without spoiling too many surprises!):
- An invisible stamp at Howl’s Castle, which only appears when you shine a blacklight – a hint given to us by one of the staff, and it left us smiling.
- The cassette tape in the witch’s house (in the Valley of Witches) actually plays music when you insert it into the player.
- The hidden Totoro in Kiki’s room – if you look closely, he’s there, peeking out, as if guarding the space.
These little details make the visit feel more immersive and personal. It makes you want to stop at every corner and try everything, slowly. That’s really the vibe: like stepping into the films, with the freedom to explore at your own pace.
So if you go to Ghibli Park, don’t just follow the main path. Peek behind doors, open drawers, pay attention to sounds and reflections. There’s hidden magic in every corner — you just need to stay alert.
Where to Eat in Ghibli Park
If you get hungry while visiting Ghibli Park, there are several food options, from quick snacks to more complete meals, all with a thematic twist inspired by the studio’s movies.
Inside the park, you’ll find cafés and restaurants with creative menus — like hot dogs with fun names or desserts shaped like characters. In the Valley of Witches, for example, we tried a frog filled with red bean paste that was delicious and quite popular (so don’t wait until the end of the day because it usually sells out).
If you prefer something simpler or more budget-friendly, right by the main entrance next to the subway station, there’s a Lawson (Japanese convenience store) — perfect to grab a cold drink, an onigiri, or even a quick meal. Also, Moricoro Park, where Ghibli Park is located, has some restaurants outside the themed zone, which could be a good option if you want a short break from the park atmosphere.
Useful Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
After spending a full day at Ghibli Park, here are some tips that might help you enjoy the experience even more:
- Best time to visit Ghibli Park: Avoid weekends and public holidays if you can. On weekdays, the park is calmer and easier to explore. As for seasons, spring and autumn are ideal — pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery in Moricoro Park.
- How much time to set aside: Some areas take more time. For example, the Grand Warehouse is super complete and interactive — allow at least two hours. The Valley of Witches is also worth exploring, with at least one hour. Other zones depend on your pace. In total, one full day is enough to visit everything calmly. We arrived around 9:30 AM and left at 3:30 PM, without rushing.
- What to bring: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll walk a lot. A reusable water bottle helps save money and is more sustainable. If you want to keep it budget-friendly, bring some snacks or buy something at Lawson before entering the park.
Visit Rules and Logistics
Before you go, here are a few important things to know:
- Photos and video: In many areas of Ghibli Park, photography is allowed, but some — especially in the Grand Warehouse — have a no-photo policy. It’s marked with signs, so keep an eye out. The goal is to preserve the magic and avoid crowds or confusion. Remember, you’ll see things never shown before, and it’s more about living the moment than capturing everything.
- Accessibility and English support: The park is accessible for people with reduced mobility, with elevators and ramps in various areas. We also found English signs on maps and info boards, and staff were helpful, even if not all of them spoke fluent English.
- Opening hours: Ghibli Park opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM. Always double-check the schedule before visiting as it might change. It’s best to arrive early to make the most of your day. Since the park is inside Moricoro Park, you can come earlier and walk around the green area or grab a bite before your visit.
Is Ghibli Park Worth Visiting?
Before going to Ghibli Park, we read many reviews online. Some said the park was disorganized, that the areas were too far apart, or that there wasn’t much to see. We admit, we had some doubts… But after experiencing it ourselves, we can only say: we’re so glad we didn’t skip it.
The truth is, we loved it. It was one of the most unique experiences we’ve had in Japan, and it truly felt like something that could only happen there. Ghibli Park isn’t an amusement park with roller coasters — it’s a deep dive into the magical world of Studio Ghibli. And if you’re a fan of the movies, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into one.
Everything is thoughtfully designed: the sets are stunning, the objects are interactive, and most impressive of all, nothing is broken or messy — which, let’s be honest, is only possible thanks to Japan’s culture of respect. Being able to open drawers, touch things, and discover surprises around every corner makes the whole experience even more magical.
Who is it for?
If you’re a Studio Ghibli fan, this park is a dream come true. But even if you don’t know all the movies, the atmosphere and attention to detail will amaze you. It’s perfect for animation lovers, families, couples, or even solo travelers.
Every minute we spent there was worth it — as was the effort to get tickets. It was one of those experiences that stays with you forever. If you’re planning a trip to Japan and love the Ghibli universe, this is one of those places you really need to visit.
Visiting Ghibli Park was one of the most memorable experiences of our trip to Japan. It’s unlike anything we’ve seen before — and we truly felt like the world of animation comes alive there. From the stunning sets to the hidden details in every corner, there’s always something to discover. For those who grew up watching Studio Ghibli films, it’s a journey full of emotion and nostalgia.
If you enjoy Japanese animation or simply want to do something unique in Japan, this park deserves a spot on your itinerary. Our advice? Go with time, curiosity, and an open heart. You’ll leave with memories that will stay with you for a long time.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions About Ghibli Park
How far in advance should I buy tickets?
Tickets sell out quickly, so ideally you should buy them at least one to two months in advance. There are several options, from access to a single area to a full ticket that lets you visit everything.
Can I visit everything in one day?
Yes, it’s possible — we did it. We arrived around 9:30 AM and left at 3:30 PM, with enough time to explore all the main areas. The key is to plan well and manage your time, especially at the Grand Warehouse and Valley of Witches, which are the largest and most detailed areas.
Do I need to know the films to enjoy the park?
It’s not mandatory, but it definitely helps. If you’ve seen the movies, you’ll recognize the sets and hidden references. Still, even if you haven’t, you can enjoy the magical atmosphere and attention to detail — there’s a lot to see and feel even without knowing the stories.
Is the park suitable for young children?
Yes, absolutely. There are several areas designed for kids, like the Catbus play zone in the Grand Warehouse. Everything is very safe, with spacious areas to explore freely. Of course, some parts might appeal more to adult fans, but kids will have fun too.
Can I visit on rainy days?
Yes. Although some areas are outdoors, most attractions are indoors, like the Grand Warehouse. Bring an umbrella or raincoat and you’ll be able to enjoy the visit without major issues.
