Ghibli Park: A Whimsical Adventure in Nagoya, Japan
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For many, the mere mention of Studio Ghibli conjures a world of whimsy and intrigue.
Introducing Ghibli Park
The animation studio famed for some of the most beautiful works in Japanese anime—My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Howl’s Moving Castle—has long welcomed visitors to the modest Ghibli Museum nestled in the quiet suburbs of Tokyo. This year, however, visitors are invited deeper into the woods as the studio’s new Ghibli Park officially opens its gates within the sprawling grounds of Aichi Commemorative Park, commonly referred to as Moricoro Park. The new theme park is located in Nagoya, a city easily accessible from Tokyo by bullet train in less than two hours.
Experience the Unique Attractions
Visitors accustomed to typical large-scale theme parks will find Ghibli Park a more subdued experience. Although the park is spacious, it does not feature rides or large attractions. Instead, the lush grounds invite visitors to explore and immerse themselves in the enchanting surroundings while wandering along the park’s winding, tree-lined paths.
Three themed areas—the Ghibli Grand Warehouse, Dondoko Forest, and Hill of Youth—will open to visitors on November 1, with additional areas set to launch in 2023. The most expansive of these areas, the Ghibli Grand Warehouse, provides fans with access to short films previously shown only at the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo, as well as exclusive exhibitions. The Grand Warehouse captures the essence of Studio Ghibli, combining multiple enchanting worlds ripe for exploration. Visitors can then step into the cozy World Emporium from Whisper of the Heart at the Hill of Youth, followed by a stroll through the park to Dondoko Forest, where the world of Totoro awaits.
Tickets to Ghibli Park
Separate timed-entry tickets are required for access to each area, with different pricing. Entry to Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse is priced at ¥2000 ($13.50) on weekdays and ¥2500 ($16.80) on weekends, while tickets for the other two areas are each available for ¥1000 ($6.70). Children aged three and up enter at half-price. Tickets for November have already sold out, and the ticket lottery for December is currently open.
Dining Options Nearby
For a light meal, visitors can grab a healthy onigiri rice ball with organic vegetables, paired with freshly brewed coffee at Soyogo Coffee, located right near the park entrance. After a day of exploration, consider dining on the signature lobster broth tsukemen (dipping noodles) or seafood-based soy sauce ramen at Menya Hanzo, situated near Fujigaoka Station. For delicious baked goods, Cafe SAISON offers quiches, cakes, and seasonal cookies that feel like they’ve stepped out of a Ghibli movie. Another notable spot is Osu Mori no Cafe Kodama, known for its storybook-like setting featuring beloved Studio Ghibli characters; reservations are recommended during peak hours.
Try the Local Cuisine
A trip to Nagoya would not be complete without experiencing a hitsumabushi meal, featuring crispy, grilled unagi (eel) that can be enjoyed in various ways. Popular spots abound, such as Hitsumabushi Bincho, alongside many others throughout the city.
Drink Like a Local
Cafes and tea houses surrounding the park are limited, but the nearby transport hub of Fujigaoka offers several choices to relax. Enjoy a cool, sophisticated evening at Jazz Tearoom Aoneko, a cozy underground cafe boasting a charming ambiance and delicious pastries. For coffee enthusiasts, Freak Coffee Roasters delivers a modern coffee experience with a variety of specialty blends. Additionally, Cafe Tohenboku not only serves delightful coffee but also operates as an art gallery, creating a unique atmosphere for guests.
Where to Stay
Nagoya is easily reachable from Tokyo, Gifu, Kyoto, and beyond via bullet train. The area surrounding Nagoya Station caters to various budgets, offering everything from luxurious 5-star accommodations to budget hostels. With only a 45-minute public transport ride from Nagoya city to Ghibli Park, it is a convenient location for visitors. Studio Ghibli fans or families planning to spend extended time at the park may consider staying near Fujigaoka Station, where a brief monorail ride takes guests right to the park’s entrance.
