Overview of Ghibli Park
- Opened: 2022
- Location: Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park (former 2005 World Expo site), Nagakute City
- Total Area: Over 7.1 hectares
- Focus: Immersive environments, architecture, and film-based exhibits rather than rides
- Divided into Five Themed Areas Reflecting Famous Studio Ghibli Films
Ghibli Park is a theme park which brings to life the beloved works of Studio Ghibli.
Set across lush parkland, Ghibli Park encourages guests to explore its beautifully themed areas at a relaxed pace. It’s not about thrills but rather the wonder, detail, and connection with nature, art, and imagination Studio Ghibli is known for.
The park allows visitors to discover all of the studio's secrets—from artifacts and exhibits from past Studio Ghibli movies to kid-sized film studio exhibitions, hands-on learning centers, life-sized replicas, and so much more.
Themed Areas of Ghibli Park
The park consists of five areas: Hill of Youth (featuring the elevator tower from “Laputa: Castle in the Sky,” “Howl’s Moving Castle,” and a house from “Whisper of the Heart”), Dondoko Forest (dedicated to the movie “My Neighbor Totoro”), Mononoke Village(featuring sculptures from “Princess Mononoke”), Valley of Witches (with buildings from “Kiki’s Delivery Service”, “Howl’s Moving Castle” and “Earwig and the Witch”), and Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse (with a wide array of shopping, dining, exhibits, and movie screenings).
1. Hill of Youth
Inspired by Whisper of the Heart and The Cat Returns, this area features the iconic antique shop “World Emporium” and a stone elevator tower inspired by Laputa: Castle in the Sky.
2. Dondoko Forest
Step into the quiet countryside of My Neighbor Totoro. Wander woodland trails to find a life-sized replica of Satsuki and Mei’s house, and climb the Dondoko-do, a giant Totoro-shaped viewing platform.
3. Mononoke Village
Dedicated to Princess Mononoke, this area features a forested landscape dotted with large-scale sculptures of characters like the boar god Lord Okkoto and Tatarigami spirits. A place for contemplation and cultural reflection.
4. Valley of Witches
A whimsical zone inspired by Kiki’s Delivery Service, Howl’s Moving Castle, and Earwig and the Witch. Explore detailed recreations of Howl’s Castle, Kiki’s home, and the Okino residence.
5. Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse
The heart of the park, this indoor area features rotating exhibits, exclusive merchandise, cafés, play zones, and short film screenings. You’ll find displays from across Ghibli’s filmography and exclusive experiences not available elsewhere.
Whether you’re an animation fan or not, visitors will enjoy strolling through the expansive grounds and immersing themselves in the whimsical world of Studio Ghibli.
How to Buy Tickets to Ghibli Park
The “O-Sanpo Day Pass” is recommended for visitors who want to spend plenty of time exploring Ghibli's Grand Warehouse, taking commemorative photos, buying memorabilia, and filling your belly. With the O-Sanpo Day Pass, you can enter all five areas as well as cafés and restaurants, shops, play equipment, and rides in all the areas. However, some attractions may have additional fees and you will be assigned an entrance time for Ghibli's Grand Warehouse. This pass does not include admission to the following three buildings: World Emporium (Hill of Youth), Satsuki and Mei's House (Dondoko Forest), and The Okino Residence, Howl's Castle, and The House of Witches (Valley of Witches).
Prices for the O-Sanpo Day Pass range from 3,500JPY (weekdays) to 4,000JPY (weekend and holidays) for adults and 1,750JPY (weekdays) to 2,000JPY (weekend and holidays) for children ages 4-12. Admission for children under the age of 3 is free.
The “O-Sanpo Day Pass Premium” is recommended for visitors who want to see everything. The premium pass includes entry to all buildings including the World Emporium (Hill of Youth), Satsuki and Mei's House (Dondoko Forest), and The Okino Residence, Howl's Castle, and The House of Witches (Valley of Witches). Similar to the O-Sanpo Day Pass, some attractions may have additional fees and you will be assigned an entrance time for Ghibli's Grand Warehouse.
Prices for the O-Sanpo Day Pass Premium range from 7,300JPY (weekdays) to 7,800JPY (weekend and holidays) for adults and 3,650JPY (weekdays) to 3,900JPY (weekend and holidays) for children ages 4-12. Admission for children under the age of 3 is free.
It is important to note that tickets are not sold at the park, but must be purchased in advance. Tickets go on sale two months in advance, on the 10th of each month at 14:00 (Japan time) on the Ghibli Park website.
For further information regarding Studio Ghibli and the life and work of founder Miyazaki Hayao, see our ‘Art Space Japan: Miyazaki Hayao & Studio Ghibli’ page. Animation fans might consider pairing a trip to Ghibli Park with Tokyo’s ‘Ghibli Museum’ —but make sure to book well in advance as tickets are always in high demand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I buy Ghibli Park tickets at the entrance?
No. All tickets must be purchased in advance through the official website.
What’s the difference between the regular and premium O-Sanpo Day Pass?
The premium version includes admission to special interior attractions and iconic buildings not included with the standard pass.
Is the park suitable for small children?
Yes, the park is family-friendly and ideal for children aged 3 and above. However, it’s more focused on exploration than amusement rides.
How long should I plan to spend at Ghibli Park?
Plan for at least half a day (4–6 hours) to see all five zones. A full-day visit is ideal for premium pass holders.
Are there food and drink options in the park?
Yes! Ghibli Park offers themed cafés, snacks, and full-service dining, all within the world of Ghibli.
Can I take photos inside Ghibli Park?
Yes, photography is allowed in most outdoor and many indoor areas, but certain exhibitions may restrict it.
How do I get to Ghibli Park?
From Nagoya Station, take the Higashiyama (yellow) Line to Fujigaoka Station, then transfer to theLinimo Line bound for Ai-Chikyuhaku-Kinen-Koen Station. Ghibli Park is a five minute walk from Ai-Chikyuhaku-Kinen-Koen Station. Total travel time: ~60 mins / 670JPY
Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Nagoya area, and other regional destinations. We can also arrange for both custom tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter.
Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
With door-to-door service, we can pick you up from where you are and take you to where you want to go anywhere in Central Japan and the neighboring regions.
For more information, please check our standard charter rates or contact us for a custom trip. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
Additional Tips
- Check for seasonal events and limited-time exhibitions at the Grand Warehouse.
- Book your tickets early—they sell out quickly, especially for premium passes and weekends.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the park involves a lot of walking, including trails and slopes.
- Visit on a weekday for fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere.
- Pair your visit with the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo if you’re a dedicated fan.
