Ghibli Museum, Mitaka (Tokyo)

Studio Ghibli is the Japanese Animation studio that has brought many of Hayao Miyazaki's works to the big screen, such as “My Neighbour Totoro”, “Spirited Away”, “Kiki's Delivery Service”, and “Princess Mononoke”. Miyazaki-san is revered locally so to meet the demands of his public they have built a museum devoted to the company in the small suburb of Mitaka.

It is a very interesting experience and is certainly worth the trip for anyone interested in Japanese animation.

There are two shops one selling books and art-work while another (the far busier) selling all sorts of things such as figurines and DVDs.

There is a small snack counter at the back of the museum as well as a more expensive (and more popular) small restaurant.

You might think of this as being for the kids – and it is – but there is enough here to keep anyone interested! Knowing a bit of Japanese would also not go amiss…

Tickets must be purchased in advance (overseas orders are somewhat easier as they can be purchased from designated ticket agents in many countries but tickets locally can only be purchased from certain chains of stores) – Often many months in advance.

Entrance includes a ticket to see a Ghibli short film in their theatre – A film which cannot be seen outside of the museum.

Note that the museum is closed on Tuesdays (as well at various year-end dates). Check the web site for more details.

The JR Chuo line serves the museum if you get out at either the Mitaka or Kichijoji stops – I would suggest the former as the directions to the museum are clearly sign-posted. It is quite a walk from either station but not too strenuous. There is a bus that also serves the museum…

For further information, please see:

• Ghibli Museum (Japanese)
• Ticket Information (English)