What other travelers are saying about Ghibli Museum
Loved this place! It really feels like stepping into a Ghibli movie with colorful hallways, spiral stairs, stained glass, and so many tiny details everywhere. The exhibits show how the films are made with sketches and storyboards, and there’s a monthly rotating short film you can only watch here, which makes it extra special.
The gift shop has lots of exclusive items like postcards, figures, plushies, and ceramics, it’s definitely worth browsing. I also stopped by the cafe and got a chocolate cake and black tea; the cake was moist, fluffy, and not too sweet.
You need to buy tickets in advance (they sell out quickly and aren’t sold at the door), and you can only take photos outside. The rooftop garden with the Castle in the Sky robot is such a lovely space.
What a lovely place to visit for Ghibli fans. There's so much history and behind the scenes of original artwork and makings of various movies. Tickets are quite challenging to come by so don't expect to just show up the day of and expect to get in as you need to book well in advance! Be respectful and do not take pictures on the inside, only outside. For those tight on time, you can do the entire museum, with short movie feature, and shopping in about 1.5 hours. Definitely worth the trip and knocked off my bucket list.
The Ghibli Museum was the highlight of my 2-week trip to Japan!! I cannot describe adequately what a fulfilling experience this was.
Ticket reservations are required and getting tickets internationally is honestly based on luck when entering the queue at time of them opening. Seems like they split the population of tickets in half between international vs domestic, so if you have a friend/family who lives in Japan and have a Japanese address/phone #, you will have much better luck getting tickets due to availability.
As for the museum itself, there are plenty of reviews and videos regarding the exhibitions and highlights. It made me appreciate the Studio Ghibli films even more and how much effort goes into the making of a film due to volume of frames, laying out storyboards, etc.
Photos inside the exhibits are prohibited which I also think allows visitors to just be more immersed in the content and visuals that Miyazaki himself had a hand in designing.
If you get a chance to go to Ghibli Museum—prioritize this among all the other places and things to do in Japan. Even my husband, who has only seen a couple films so not a full SG “enthusiast”, had a great time at this museum and thought the exhibits were fascinating :)
This place is magical! Every detail has been considered to make the Ghibli Museum fun for both kids and adults. Don't miss the screening for a short film that can only be watched at the museum.
Photography is not allowed inside the building but outside is ok.
Tickets must be purchased in advance for entry.
Fun experience to appreciate the art of Ghibli. 2 hours to see most of the museum and enjoy coffee.
No pictures allowed inside. Great shop and souvenir!
At the Ghibli Museum, visitors can immerse themselves in the magical world of Studio Ghibli, the renowned animation studio behind films like "Spirited Away" and "My Neighbor Totoro." The museum features:
Exhibits showcasing the art and animation techniques of Studio Ghibli films.
A miniature theater screening of exclusive short films by Studio Ghibli that can only be seen here.
Interactive areas where visitors can explore and feel like part of the studio's beloved worlds.
The enchanting rooftop garden with a life-size statue of the robot from "Castle in the Sky."
A cafe offering Ghibli-themed food and drinks.
A gift shop with unique Studio Ghibli merchandise.
It's a place of inspiration, creativity, and nostalgia, perfect for fans of all ages.
Photography inside the museum is not permitted to ensure visitors are fully immersed in their experience and to maintain the mystery of the museum's interior.
Yes, the Ghibli Museum is fully committed to accessibility, ensuring that it is a welcoming space for all visitors, including wheelchair users. Wheelchairs can also be conveniently hired on-site.
The Straw Hat Café offers a range of snacks, meals, and desserts, including exclusive items like Valley of the Wind beer. There's also a food truck selling hot dogs for those looking for quicker options.
The museum is located on the edge of Tokyo's Inokashira Park, accessible from both Kichijoji and Mitaka stations. The most convenient route for many will be the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station. There's also a shuttle bus from Mitaka Station, or for those who prefer a scenic route, a pleasant walk from Kichijoji Station is an option.
