If you’re a fan of Hayao Miyazaki — and let’s be honest, who isn’t? — KKday invites you to dive headfirst into the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli with our ultimate guide to Ghibli Park. Nestled in Nagoya, a whimsical detour between Tokyo and Kyoto/Osaka, this guide guarantees you an immersive experience in the heart of Aichi Prefecture. Tickets are not only accessible but also surprisingly budget-friendly, promising a magical journey without the need for hair-raising rides. Get ready for lifelike exhibitions, incredible photo ops, and hidden Easter eggs for the most devoted fans.
Welcome to Ghibli Park — An Overview
Ghibli Park, the only official Studio Ghibli theme park globally, opened its doors on November 20, 2022, within the expansive Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park (Moricoro Park). Offering immersive experiences in various Ghibli movie settings, the park includes Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse, Mononoke Village, Hill of Youth, Dondoko Forest, and the upcoming Valley of Witches (opening in 2024). With no traditional rides, the park remains affordable, making it a haven for fans seeking a deeper connection.
How to Get to Ghibli Park
While you sadly can’t take the Catbus or hop on Kiki’s broom for an exciting ride, embarking on your Ghibli Park adventure is a breeze, though choosing the right mode of transportation is key. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, prefer the convenience of a bus, or value the directness of a taxi, we’ve got you covered. Pro tip: Large bags and suitcases aren’t allowed inside Ghibli Park facilities, but worry not — lockers at the North Gate Information Center in Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park have got your storage needs sorted.
By Train
For an affordable and convenient journey:
- From Nagoya Station, hop on the Higashiyama Subway Line heading to Fujigaoka Station (the final stop on the line). Enjoy a scenic 30-minute ride.
- At Fujigaoka Station, take your magical transfer to Linimo, a Mag-Lev (magnetically levitated) train. This modern wonder swiftly transports you to Aichikyūhaku-kinen-kōen (“Expo Memorial Park”) Station.
- Exit 2 is your gateway to the enchanting Aichi Commemorative Park, home to Ghibli Park.
By Bus
For those who prefer a direct route:
- Duration: About 40 minutes
- Meitetsu Bus offers a direct service from Nagoya Station to Ghibli Park, departing from Meitetsu Bus Center. Though a bit pricier and less frequent than the train, it’s a straightforward option
- Weekdays offer five services between 8:50 a.m. and 1 p.m., while weekends provide six departures from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Consult the Meitetsu Bus official website for detailed schedules
By Taxi
If you value door-to-door convenience:
- Duration: Approximately 55 minutes
- Taxis are readily available outside Nagoya Station, providing a direct journey to Ghibli Park. However, keep in mind that this option is pricier and offers similar travel times to the train. Taxis could be a viable choice for groups willing to split the cost. Traffic conditions are a factor to consider
Getting to Ghibli Park with KKday
Maximize your Ghibli Park adventure with efficient transportation options. Whether you’re coming from Nagoya or Tokyo, KKday offers hassle-free travel packages, bundling park entry, accommodation, and round-trip Shinkansen tickets. If you’re starting from Tokyo, embark on a comfortable Shinkansen journey to Nagoya, and then seamlessly transfer to a train bound for Ghibli Park. KKday’s packages ensure a convenient and stress-free experience, allowing you to focus on the magic that awaits you at Studio Ghibli.
Tickets for Ghibli Park
To secure your Ghibli Park adventure, tickets must be purchased online in advance, with sales starting three months before your desired date. Tickets are accessible through both domestic and international platforms, each offering slightly different options. Pro tip: Consider the convenience of hassle-free travel packages available through KKday, bundling park entry, accommodation, and round-trip Shinkansen tickets.
Ghibli Park Ticket Prices
Ticket prices vary based on whether you visit on a weekday or a weekend. The tickets available on the domestic and international websites differ slightly. When booking on the international site, Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse tickets are only available as part of a combined package with Mononoke Village.
- Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse and Mononoke Village Package:
- Weekdays: 2,500 JPY (Adults), 1,250 JPY (Children 4-12), Free (Children 0-3)
- Weekends and Holidays: 3,000 JPY (Adults), 1,500 JPY (Children 4-12), Free (Children 0-3)
- Hill of Youth:
- All days: 1,000 JPY (Adults), 500 JPY (Children 4-12), Free (Children 0-3)
- Dondoko Forest:
- All days: 1,000 JPY (Adults), 500 JPY (Children 4-12), Free (Children 0-3)
Ticket Terms and Conditions
Understanding the ticket terms and conditions is crucial for a smooth and organized visit to Ghibli Park. These terms ensure optimal entry times, avoid overcrowding, and create a seamless experience for all guests. Key conditions include:
- Reserve your entry date and time in advance; no on-the-spot reservations or purchases are allowed (no exceptions)
- Stick to your assigned entry time but enjoy the park until closing. Enter Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse within an hour of your reservation and Satsuki and Mei’s House and Hill of Youth within 30 minutes. No re-entry is allowed, and entry times may change without notice
- The prices mentioned already include taxes
- If you have a disability certificate, you and one companion can get half-price tickets. Just show the certificate and a passport for confirmation upon entering, and a service charge of 110 JPY per ticket will be added during the issuance
- One person can make one reservation for up to six tickets per area. Kids under three enter free and don’t count toward the limit
Discover Ghibli Park Attractions
Step into the extraordinary as you explore the enchanting realms of Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse, Mononoke Village, Hill of Youth, and Dondoko Forest. Unlike traditional theme parks, Ghibli Park offers a unique experience, foregoing rides for meticulously crafted environments inspired by iconic Studio Ghibli films. Each location is a portal into the beloved narratives, where detailed experiences await around every corner. Highlights include:
Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse
Spend a few hours hours exploring exhibitions, displays, and shops. Bursting with all things “Ghibli,” this warehouse offers a captivating display that goes beyond the ordinary. Immerse yourself in the magic of interactive exhibits, where you can become your favorite Studio Ghibli characters. Explore 14 scenes from 13 films, experiencing iconic moments such as climbing aboard the mysterious sea railway train from Spirited Away or sitting next to No Face as Chihiro.
Hill of Youth
Immerse yourself in the world of Whispers of the Heart and The Cat Returns at Ghibli Park’s Hill of Youth. Explore the impressive World Emporium and Cat Bureau, and don’t miss the Elevator Tower—a homage to late 19th-century sci-fi architecture seen in Castle in the Sky and Howl’s Moving Castle. Wander through The Rotary, a charming roundabout inspired by Whisper of the Heart’s town square, featuring a 13-meter-tall Himalayan cedar tree. At the adjacent World Emporium, you can purchase postcards and stamps, making it a delightful spot to share your Ghibli Park experience with friends and family worldwide.
Dondoko Forest
Discover the enchanting world of My Neighbor Totoro in Dondoko Forest, where you can explore the Japanese-Western style house that Satsuki and Mei called home. Each room echoes with their laughter and the playful presence of dust bunnies. Follow the acorns along the hill trail to unveil Dondoko-do, a 5-meter-tall wooden structure crafted for children aged twelve and under to enjoy. Nestled at the hill’s summit within the ticketed area, Dondoko-do remains a hidden gem, providing a magical space for young visitors to embrace the charm of Studio Ghibli.
Mononoke Village
Inspired by the serene Japanese mountain village in Princess Mononoke, Mononoke Village is a picturesque blend of nature and fantasy. Explore the Tatara-ba, a hands-on learning center mirroring the film’s architecture, where you can create local delicacies like Gohei-mochi over a traditional charcoal grill. The Lord Okkoto Slide, a mosaic marvel inspired by the film’s character, promises playful joy for children aged 12 and under. Admire the intriguing Demon Spirit Structure and the nearby Watchtower from Emishi Village. Cap off your visit at the Mononoke Village Rest Stop, once a staff office beside Satsuki and Mei’s House, now offering original items and refreshments beneath a seamlessly integrated stone-style roof. A ticket for Mononoke Village opens the door to hands-on activities, slides, and unique shopping at the Rest Stop.
Upcoming: Valley of the Witches (Opening March 16, 2024)
Prepare to be enchanted as you step into the upcoming Valley of Witches, where the Ghibli witches gather, creating a European ambience in their world. Discover iconic buildings such as The Okino Residence and Guchokipanya Bakery from Kiki’s Delivery Service, Howl’s Castle, Hatter’s Millinery from Howl’s Moving Castle, and The House of Witches from Earwig and the Witch. In this mystical area, you’ll also find a restaurant and family entertainment area, adding to the immersive experience of Ghibli Park. Mark your calendar for the opening on March 16, 2024, and join the witches in this enchanting realm.
Where and What to Eat at Ghibli Park
Food from the world of Ghibli is iconic, with scenes of delectable treats and heartwarming meals etched into the memories of fans. From the charm of Ponyo’s ramen to the whimsy of Spirited Away’s bento, Ghibli movies have celebrated the joy and comfort found in sharing a meal. Naturally, Ghibli Park continues this tradition, offering an array of food experiences that transport visitors straight into the heart of their favorite films. No matter which you decide, there are tasty options all over Ghibli Park and within Aichi Commemorative Park. Just remember — outside food is not allowed at Ghibli Park!
Transcontinental Flight Café
Take a culinary pause at the Transcontinental Flight Café after your Grand Warehouse adventure. Offering a lineup of one-hand-friendly sandwiches and pizzas, it’s the perfect spot for a long-distance pilot who needs a free hand to steer through the delectable choices.
Milk Stand Siberi❆An
Indulge in local milk presented in a charming glass bottle with an original design at the Milk Stand Siberi❆An. Additionally, savor cake with sweet beans reminiscent of “Siberia” from The Wind Rises, adding a delightful touch to your Ghibli Park culinary experience.
Rotunda Kazegaoka Cafeteria
Located near the north entrance, Rotunda Kazegaoka Cafeteria at Ghibli Park offers a tempting array of culinary delights. What sets this cafeteria apart is its accessibility, welcoming visitors without the need for park tickets. Indulge in onigiri, onigiri bento, sweets like parfait, and a variety of refreshing drinks including hojicha latte and orange juice. Situated conveniently next to the souvenir shop, it provides the perfect pitstop for a quick yet delightful Ghibli-inspired culinary experience.
Tatara-ba
Visit Tatara-ba, a hands-on learning center resembling a building from the film, where you can immerse yourself in local food culture. Participate in the first interactive experience, trying your hand at making Gohei-mochi (rice cakes) on a traditional charcoal grill. With options like Walnut Miso, Soy Sauce, and Napolitan, this beloved local snack becomes a memorable part of your Ghibli Park adventure.
Mononoke Village Rest Stop
While you’re in the area, wander over to the Mononoke Village Rest Stop, where original items and refreshments are there to help you relax and recharge. Originally built next to Satsuki and Mei’s House as a staff office, the shop has been reimagined with a stone-style roof to seamlessly blend into its new surroundings. (Please note that a ticket for Mononoke Village is required to enter and make a purchase at the Mononoke Village Rest Stop)
Ghibli Park Souvenir Guide
Don’t miss picking up souvenirs during your visit to Ghibli Park, with cute and quirky shops located throughout the area. Each location offers a unique shopping experience, allowing you to bring a piece of Studio Ghibli magic home with you. Because, let’s be honest, leaving Ghibli Park without a souvenir? That’s simply unimaginable!
Adventurous Flying Squadron
Discover the main souvenir haven in Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse – the Adventurous Flying Squadron. This whimsical shop is a treasure trove, featuring items from all Studio Ghibli productions alongside exclusive Ghibli Park merchandise. Unearth delightful memories with Catbus stuffed toys, indulge in Ghibli food recreations, and explore the charm of metal postcards. Find the perfect memento to encapsulate your Ghibli Park adventure.
Rotunda Kazegaoka
Nestled at Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park’s north entrance, Rotunda Kazegaoka beckons with its diverse array of Ghibli-themed treasures. This convenient location offers a variety of plush toys, T-shirts, tote bags, tumblers, notebooks, and more. Delight in picking up straw hats reminiscent of iconic Ghibli characters like Sophie from ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ Mei from ‘My Neighbor Totoro,’ or Shizuku from ‘Whisper of the Heart.’ No Ghibli Park ticket is required to explore this delightful selection.
Dondoko-dokoro
Explore the small yet charming souvenir shop at the entrance to Dondoko Forest – Dondoko-dokoro. Accessible to all park visitors, this quaint store presents a delightful assortment of Ghibli-themed umbrellas, hats, towels, snacks, and drinks. Revel in the unique offerings and choose keepsakes that resonate with the spirit of Dondoko Forest.
Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park
Extend your Ghibli Park adventure by exploring the vast offerings of Aichi Commemorative Park, situated adjacent to Ghibli’s wonderland. Within Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park, also known as Moricoro Park, a treasure trove of attractions awaits, including a serene Japanese-style garden, an ice skating rink for winter delights, and a towering Ferris wheel offering panoramic views. Spend an entire day indulging in these diverse experiences, seeking recommendations from the Information Center to tailor your visit to your preferences.
Ghibli in the Park
As you wander through Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park, you’ll find benches where you can pause and relax. Intriguingly, Ghibli characters have left behind some of their belongings on 15 of these benches, creating charming spots for commemorative pictures or simply to unwind. Listen carefully, and you might even catch the faint voices of your beloved Ghibli characters, adding an extra layer of enchantment to your park visit.
Hotels Near Ghibli Park
Looking for accommodations near Ghibli Park? Here’s a list of hotels near the area:
Hotel Keihan Nagoya
Location: 3-2-1, Nishiki, Naka-ku, Nagoya City, 460-0003, Aichi 460-0003, Japan
Website: Link
Mercure Nagoya Cypress
Location: 2-43-6 Meieki Nakamura-Ku, 450-0002, Nagoya, Japan
Website: Link
Courtyard by Marriott Nagoya
Location: 1-17-6, Sakae, Naka-ku, 460-0008, Nagoya, Japan
Website: Link
Nagoya Tokyu Hotel
Location: 4-6-8, Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya-shi, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0008, Japan
Website: Link
Vessel Hotel Campana Nagoya
Location: 2-30-7 Meieki, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya 450-0002, Japan
Website: Link
Toyoko Inn Nagoya Kanayama
Location: 3-9-28 Masaki, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0024, Japan
Website: Link
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where is the Ghibli theme park?
Ghibli Park is situated in Aichi Expo Memorial Park in Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan.
Is Ghibli Park free?
No, visitors must make a reservation and purchase a ticket for entry to Ghibli Park. While admission to Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park is free, Ghibli-themed areas require a ticket. Re-entry on the same ticket is not permitted. Note that reservations for 9:00 a.m. and/or 9:30 a.m. are available only when the park opens at 9:00 a.m. Visitors can enter at the assigned time and stay until closing.
Do I need to enter Ghibli Park at a specific time?
Operating hours on weekdays are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and during public school breaks, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. On weekends and holidays, the park operates from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The park may close for the new year and scheduled maintenance. It’s closed on Tuesdays, except during public school breaks and when a national holiday falls on a Tuesday. Check out Ghibli Park’s calendar for more info.
Is Ghibli Park open to foreign tourists?
Yes, tickets are available on the international ticket sales website or through convenient KKday packages.
Are there rides at Ghibli Park?
Ghibli Park does not have traditional rides, but a play area is available in Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse for children.
Can Ghibli Park be a day trip from Tokyo?
While possible, it’s not recommended for an exhaustive day and is ideal for inclusion in a longer Nagoya itinerary.
How far is Studio Ghibli from Tokyo?
The distance between Studio Ghibli and Tokyo is 22 km.
Ghibli in Tokyo
No time to travel out of Tokyo? Stay in the heart of the city while indulging in the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli. Explore Ghibli-themed experiences without ever leaving the bustling metropolis. Here are some delightful adventures that bring the Ghibli magic straight to you in Tokyo!
▶︎Animage and Ghibli Exhibition｜Dated Admission Ticket
Wishing you a whimsical journey at Ghibli Park! For a hassle-free trip, embrace the magic with KKday’s curated packages — round-trip transfers, accommodations, and easy booking!
(Main and Featured Image credit: Ghibli Park)
