Discover The World of Ghibli in These 7 Real Life Locations

For more than 30 years, Studio Ghibli has been a powerhouse in the world of animation. With compelling storylines and stunning details crafted by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, the worlds they create feel as real and magical as anything Disney has ever dreamed up. But here’s the cool part—those enchanting places aren’t just make-believe! If you’re a die-hard Ghibli fan, you can actually visit the real-life spots that inspired the films.

Jiufen, Taiwan

The Oscar-winning animation, 'Spirited Away' was recently regarded as the second 'most-watched' movie in the 21st century according to the New York Times. The mystical setting that was stumbled upon by Chihiro and her family down the 'rabbit hole' was said to be inspired by a town in Taiwan called Jiufen. Nestled up in the northeast mountains outside Taipei, this town was historically a former mining town which now attracts visitors for its quaint streets and traditional buildings. The beautiful A-Mei Teahouse, narrow alleys and shops around Jiufen picturesquely mimics the animated classic.

Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama, Japan

Another enchanting setting that inspired *Spirited Away* is the renowned Dogo Onsen in Hyogo, nestled in one of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns. Miyazaki was enchanted by this historic bathhouse, which beautifully blends nature with centuries-old tradition. In the film, the bathhouse is a mysterious place controlled by the intimidating Yubaba, but the real Dogo Onsen offers a much more serene experience. Instead of navigating through magical trials or dodging the schemes of an evil witch, you can unwind in the warm, mineral-rich waters and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a place where the magic of Ghibli truly comes to life, minus the adventure—and all the better for it!

Paronella Park, Queensland, Australia

Walking through Paronella Park feels like you’ve wandered into the world of *Castle in the Sky*. This lush, fairytale-like park, with its moss-covered ruins and cascading waterfalls, seems straight out of a Miyazaki film. Built by José Paronella, a Spanish immigrant with a grand vision, the park was designed as a castle hidden away in 13 acres of dense forest along Mena Creek. With its enchanting atmosphere and overgrown pathways, it's easy to see how this magical place could inspire the dreamy landscapes and adventurous spirit of *Castle in the Sky*.

Moricoro Park, Nagoya, Japan

Unlike other real-world locations that inspired Miyazaki's animated landscapes, this spot is a full-scale recreation of Satsuki and Mei's house from *My Neighbor Totoro*. Built for the 2005 World Expo in Nagoya, this house is a dream come true for fans of the beloved film. Every detail is carefully replicated—from the cozy rooms to the iconic water bucket with a hole at the bottom, bringing the world of Totoro to life. For those eager to explore Totoro's neighborhood, keep in mind that tickets need to be booked in advance to secure a visit.

Gamla Stan, Stockholm, Sweden

While Miyazaki’s films often draw from Japanese traditions, his visit to Sweden had a huge impact on him, especially for *Kiki’s Delivery Service*. The medieval charm of Gamla Stan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, clearly inspired the setting for the city in the film. You can see the influence in the film’s color palette and architectural details, which echo the picturesque streets and historic buildings of this charming Swedish city.

Yakushima, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan

Fans of *Princess Mononoke* can step into a real-life version of the film’s mystical forest by visiting Yakushima Forest on Kagoshima’s island. Often described as enchanting and otherworldly, Yakushima is renowned for its ancient trees, some of which are between 1,000 and 7,000 years old. The forest’s stunning beauty and ethereal atmosphere earned it a spot on the Natural World Heritage Site list in 1993, preserving its magical charm for visitors to experience.

Ghibli Museum, Mitaka, Tokyo and Upcoming Theme Park

For those embarking on a Studio Ghibli pilgrimage, the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka is the perfect place to start. This charming museum showcases the enchanting world of Ghibli through an array of treasures, from Hayao Miyazaki's original sketches to life-sized robot installations from *Castle in the Sky*. And there’s exciting news for fans: a Studio Ghibli Theme Park is in the works and is set to open in 2022. Although details are still under wraps, the park promises an immersive experience with rides, attractions, and scenic trails inspired by the studio’s beloved films. While waiting for the park’s grand opening, visitors can dive into the magic at the museum and enjoy its captivating exhibits.

Bonus

And there's even more for Ghibli enthusiasts to enjoy! For a taste of Studio Ghibli magic, check out the charming *Shirohige Cream Puff Factory* in Shimokitazawa. This little shop is famous for its adorable Totoro cream puffs, which have become quite the sensation on social media. If you're eager to try these delightful treats, be sure to arrive early and join the line, as these Ghibli-inspired pastries are a popular and delicious way to bring a bit of the studio’s whimsy into your day.

Conclusion

Studio Ghibli, renowned for its extraordinary animation, has been crafting some of the most beloved films of all time, inspired by stunning locales around the world. Fans can immerse themselves in the enchanting worlds of movies like *Spirited Away*, *Castle in the Sky*, *Kiki’s Delivery Service*, *My Neighbor Totoro*, and *Princess Mononoke*. These real-life settings bring the magic of Ghibli’s animation to life, allowing you to step into scenes as if you were one of the characters yourself.