The capital city of Japan offers a unique

opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in

the whimsical world of Ghibli
Combining mythical storytelling and stunning visuals, Studio Ghibli is renowned as one
of the world’s greatest animation studios.

Even if you aren’t particularly interested in Japanese animation, you’ve likely heard of a
Studio Ghibli film, or inadvertently witnessed one of its characters. Universally known
in their home country, Totoro, Catbus, and No-Face—amongst many others—have
become beloved throughout the world. If you can’t hold out until the Studio Ghibli Theme
Park opens in 2022, Ghibli fans visiting Japan can experience their very own slice (or in
one case, cream puff) of the whimsical studio’s creations—and Tokyo should be your top
destination.

Ghibli Clock
If you look up while wandering the streets of Shiodome, you might just spot a giant Ghibli
clock affixed to the Nittele Tower, home of Nippon TV. Intended to capture the whimsical
spirit of the Ghibli films, this massive timepiece—designed by Ghibli director Hayao
Miyazaki and his team—appears to have been inspired by the wooden cuckoo clocks of
Europe, with a uniquely Ghibli twist. Make sure that you take the time to look at the many
intricate details sculpted into the clock; at over three stories tall, you probably won’t miss
it.

Meguro Gajeon Hotel

A visit to the sumptuously-decorated Meguro Gajeon Hotel will transport you to a
different side of Japan. Originally built in 1935, the traditional bathhouse of the hotel
provided inspiration to Studio Ghibli for the bathhouse featured in Spirited Away, which
won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. When you see its colorful, carved
interiors and its famous wooden steps, it’s easy to understand how the makers of Spirited
Away were influenced by this beautiful locale. Meguro Gajeon Hotel is a place of
pilgrimage for many Ghibli fans, and you may find it is hosting one of its many art
exhibitions when you visit.

Sagano Bamboo Forest

Okay, so this one isn’t in Tokyo. However, many visitors to Japan purchase a JR Rail
Pass and often make day trips to other areas of the country. Kyoto is one of the most
popular destinations for a day trip, and the Sagano Bamboo Forest was another key source
of inspiration for Studio Ghibli. The 2013 film The Tale of the Princess Kaguya
prominently features a bamboo forest, with the titular character becoming a royal princess
of Kyoto. Standing amongst the creaking and whistling green shoots of the Sagano
Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, you can understand why this serene location provided
inspiration to Ghibli animators.