Ghibli Museum Mitaka

The Ghibli Museum, Mitaka is one of Tokyo’s most beloved and exclusive cultural attractions, nestled in the serene grounds of Inokashira Park in the western Tokyo city of Mitaka. Opened in October 2001, the museum was personally designed by legendary animation director Hayao Miyazaki and is dedicated to celebrating the art, storytelling, and filmmaking magic of the world-renowned Studio Ghibli. The museum’s architectural character is whimsical and labyrinthine, reflecting Miyazaki’s vision of a space to be explored without a set path under the motto Let’s Lose Our Way, Together. Visitors of all ages can wander through exhibition rooms that reveal the creative process behind animated films, from initial sketches and storyboarding to keyframing and background painting. The basement level Saturn Theater screens exclusive Studio Ghibli short films that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. Children under 12 are especially delighted by the Catbus Room, where they can play inside a giant plush replica of the iconic Catbus from My Neighbor Totoro. The rooftop garden is home to a life-size robot soldier from Castle in the Sky. The Straw Hat Cafe offers light meals and seasonal desserts, and the Mamma Aiuto souvenir shop carries unique Ghibli collectibles. Entry is strictly by advance reservation only, and tickets typically sell out within minutes of going on sale each month.