Explore Ghibli Park: A Comprehensive Guide to All 5 Magical Areas - Japan Travel Sights

Explore Ghibli Park: A Comprehensive Guide to All 5 Magical Areas

In November 2022, Ghibli Park opened its doors within the Aichi Expo Memorial Park in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. Since then, it has become a must-visit destination for fans of Studio Ghibli.

With the opening of the final area, “Witch’s Valley,” in March 2024, the park now boasts five distinct areas, each offering unique experiences.

This guide will take you through all the must-see attractions and activities in each area.


① What is Ghibli Park?

Ghibli Park is located in the city of Nagakute, Aichi Prefecture, within the Aichi Expo Memorial Park (Morikoro Park).

It was built on the site of the 2005 World Expo, which was held under the theme “Nature’s Wisdom.”

Supervised by Goro Miyazaki, known for directing films such as Tales from Earthsea and From Up on Poppy Hill, Ghibli Park is filled with exhibits and installations that immerse visitors in the world of Studio Ghibli’s films.

In March 2024, the long-awaited “Witch’s Valley” opened, completing the park’s five areas: Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse, Hill of Youth, Dondoko Forest, Mononoke Village, and Witch’s Valley. Let’s explore the charm of each area.


② A Tour of All 5 Areas

1. Witch’s Valley

Opening in March 2024, “Witch’s Valley” is inspired by the magical realms of Ghibli’s beloved witches. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by the imposing figure of Bella Yaga from Earwig and the Witch, her mouth wide open in welcome.

Highlight ①: Howl’s Moving Castle

Dominating the area is a towering 20-meter replica of Howl’s castle, which moves and emits smoke several times an hour. Inside, you’ll find Howl’s messy living room, Sophie’s room, and Calcifer’s hearth. On the second floor, explore Howl’s bedroom, dressing room, cluttered bathroom, and studio.

Highlight ②: Kiki’s Home (Okino Residence)

Step into Kiki’s world with a visit to her childhood home from Kiki’s Delivery Service. The house includes her mother’s witch shop, a cozy living room with a fireplace, and Kiki’s room, filled with colorful clothes, stickers, letters, and ribbons. You can even open the drawers and cabinets to explore.

Highlight ③: Guchoki Bakery

Also from Kiki’s Delivery Service, this bakery offers a variety of delicious breads, including baguettes, boules, and unique items like spaghetti-filled bread and Aichi’s specialty, Uiro Canelé.

The area also features a Flying Machine and a Merry-Go-Round inspired by Ghibli’s magical worlds, where you can feel like you’re soaring through the skies.

Make sure to buy a ride ticket at the small hut near the Okino Residence before lining up.


2. Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse

Next, explore “Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse,” a treasure trove of Ghibli memorabilia.

This area was conceptualized when Aichi Prefecture’s Governor suggested creating a space to gather and exhibit the tools and props used in various Ghibli events and stages.

Highlight ①: “Become a Ghibli Character” Exhibit

Experience iconic scenes from Ghibli films firsthand, like Chihiro’s train ride with No-Face in Spirited Away or the brawl from Porco Rosso. This exhibit allows you to step directly into the world of 13 Ghibli films.

Highlight ②: “Drawing Food” Exhibit

Explore the intricacies of Ghibli’s famous food scenes, from Spirited Away’s banquet to the homey meals in My Neighbor Totoro. Realistic food replicas and original storyboards by Hayao Miyazaki are on display.

Other Exhibits and Attractions:

Don’t miss the Totoro’s Shop, where a cute Totoro greets you behind a bar, or the Catbus Room, where both children and adults can climb into the fluffy Catbus.

The Orion Theater screens Ghibli short films, and children can enjoy the Children’s Town, a miniaturized world just for kids.


3. Hill of Youth

This area brings to life the youthful spirit of films like Whisper of the Heart and The Cat Returns. Start by descending the Elevator Tower to reach the Rotary Square, where you’ll find the orange-colored Earth Shop and the miniature Cat Bureau.

Highlight: Earth Shop

Inside, you’ll find Baron the cat waiting for visitors. The second floor houses a collection of antique-style clocks and furniture, while the basement showcases Seiji’s violin workshop.

Highlight: Cat Bureau

Peek inside to discover a tiny replica of Baron’s house, and don’t forget to try the mysterious public telephone at the edge of the area—it might surprise you!

4. Dondoko Forest

Spanning an entire mountainside, Dondoko Forest is a lush, nature-filled area inspired by My Neighbor Totoro. Climb to the summit to be greeted by Totoro himself. The Dondoko Store nearby offers original charms and other unique goods.

Highlight: Satsuki and Mei’s House

At the base of the mountain, explore a detailed replica of Satsuki and Mei’s home, including a peek into the Kusakabe family’s daily life.

5. Mononoke Village

Step into the world of Princess Mononoke in this village area, which recreates the atmosphere of the village and Tataraba from the film. The village includes a Tatara Smelting Workshop, where you can try your hand at grilling traditional Gohei-mochi over a charcoal fire.

Highlight: Tatara Smelting Workshop

Choose from a variety of sauces like walnut miso, soy sauce, and curry to pair with your Gohei-mochi, and take home any leftover sauce for later.

Ghibli Park is easily accessible from Nagoya Station, requiring about 50 minutes via subway and the Linimo train. The nearest station is Ai-Chikyuhaku-Kinen-Koen Station. If you’re driving, it’s about 20 minutes from the Nagoya IC on the Tomei Expressway. Parking is available within the Expo Memorial Park, but note that there is no dedicated parking for Ghibli Park itself.


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