Ghibli Museum Guide

Ghibli Museum is located in Mitaka, nestled beside Inokashira Park.
Designed by Hayao Miyazaki, the museum is an immersive space dedicated to the world of Studio Ghibli animation.

Why Visit

🎥 Immersive experience of Studio Ghibli films
🎨 Unique fairy-tale architecture
🤖 Laputa robot soldier statue on the rooftop
📸 Highly photogenic and magical atmosphere

Best Time to Visit

🌅 Morning sessions: Less crowded
🌸🍁 Spring & Autumn: Best scenery around the park

Exhibits & Highlights

1️⃣ Indoor Exhibits
🎬 Animation production process displays
🖌️ Original sketches, models, and designs
🌀 Maze-like exhibition layout
👉 Note: Photography is not allowed indoors

2️⃣ Rooftop Garden
🤖 Robot soldier from Castle in the Sky
🌿 Green rooftop garden
👉 Great photo spot

3️⃣ Exclusive Short Film Theater
🎥 Exclusive short films only shown at the museum
🎟️ Each visitor can watch one screening

Tickets

🎫 Approx. 1,000 yen (adults)
⏰ Timed entry system
❗ Must be booked in advance (usually released one month ahead)
👉 Tickets are not available on-site

Shopping

🎁 Exclusive merchandise (only available inside the museum)
🧸 Totoro, No-Face, and other character goods

Transportation

🚆 From Tokyo:
Take the JR Chūō Line to Mitaka Station
Walk about 15 minutes or take a shuttle bus

Food Recommendations

1️⃣ Sometaro Kichijoji (Okonomiyaki & Monjayaki)
🍳 Specialty: Okonomiyaki & monjayaki
🏮 Feature: Tatami seating, nostalgic retro vibe
🎉 Experience: Cook it yourself on a griddle
👉 Feels like stepping into a Ghibli-style world

2️⃣ Satou Steakhouse Kichijoji (Famous Wagyu)
🥩 Specialty: Wagyu steak
🔥 Popularity: Very famous (often long lines)
💡 Bonus: Wagyu croquettes sold outside
👉 A must for high-quality beef lovers

3️⃣ Harmonica Yokocho Alley (Food Alley Experience)
🍢 Specialty: Yakitori, small dishes, street-style food
🍶 Atmosphere: Authentic Tokyo nightlife
🎯 Feature: Many tiny eateries to explore
👉 Best visited in the evening

4️⃣ Iseya Yakitori Kichijoji (Classic Yakitori Spot)
🍢 Specialty: Yakitori (grilled skewers)
💰 Price: Very affordable
🔥 Popular with locals
👉 Located near Inokashira Park

5️⃣ Menya Musashi Kichijoji (Ramen / Tsukemen)
🍜 Specialty: Rich ramen and dipping noodles
👍 Flavor: Bold and satisfying

6️⃣ Curry House CoCo Ichibanya Kichijoji (Japanese Curry)
🍛 Specialty: Japanese curry rice
✔️ Feature: Customizable spice levels and toppings
👉 A reliable and easy choice

7️⃣ Capoon Matcha Cafe Kichijoji (Matcha Specialty)
🍵 Specialty: High-quality matcha desserts
💚 Flavor: Rich and authentic

8️⃣ Cafe du Lievre Usagi-kan (Rabbit Café)
🐰 Feature: Rabbit-themed café
☕ Atmosphere: Cozy and artistic
👉 Very close to the Ghibli Museum

9️⃣ Inokashira Park Cafe (Park Café)
🌿 Feature: Located inside Inokashira Park
☕ Perfect for: A relaxing break during a walk

🔟 Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory (Totoro Cream Puffs)
🧁 Specialty: Totoro-shaped cream puffs
🎀 Feature: Official Ghibli-themed dessert
📸 Must-try: Super cute and photogenic
👉 A must-visit for Ghibli fans

Travel Tips

✔️ Book tickets early
✔️ No photography indoors
✔️ Best for Studio Ghibli fans
✔️ Plan about 2–3 hours for your visit