Already have the Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Park on your bucket list? Why not add a bit more Ghibli magic to your trip, and go and see some of the places that are believed to have inspired Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved flimography. Here are all our top picks.
Before we start, we are sure that there are many more places that charmed the renowned animator. However, this list features the most famous ones — including places Miyazaki has confirmed, as well as others widely believed — or at least suspected — to have inspired his work.
Pro tip: For the ultimate Ghibli-filled experience, consider a special Ghibli Museum and Film Appreciation Bus Tour, where you’ll visit some of the iconic locations within Tokyo.
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Ever dreamt of walking through the forest and hoping to find Totoro and friends? While you may or may not bump into them, you can still experience the childhood wonder that May and Satsuki had in the movie.
Located in Saitama, the forest is officially known as “Totoro’s Forest”, as it — and the surrounding Sayama Hills — served as the model location for the film. Offering an easygoing forest hike, the area has a lot to explore, including small shrines, peaceful lakes, and Kurosuke’s House.
For those curious about Kurosuke’s House, it’s a traditional farmhouse and registered cultural property. You can go inside for just ¥500, and all proceeds go toward preserving the forest’s beauty — so future fans can continue to enjoy this beloved movie setting. If you go in, you might find a big plush version of a certain character waiting for you.
Dogo Onsen, located in Matsuyama, is said to be Japan’s oldest hot-spring town. Boasting an impressive 3,000-year history, it’s no surprise that fans believe Miyazaki borrowed elements from this designated National Important Cultural Property.
With its dark wood exterior and beautifully preserved classic interior, this public batthouse excudes a mysterious charm — one which No Face would very much enjoy. Especially at night, when the onsen lights up, it stands out against the minimally-lit surroundings.
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Just like in the film, anyone is welcome to bathe in the traditional baths. Entry fees vary depending on which section of the bathhouse you want to enter. Prices start at ¥700 for adults and ¥350 for children. Next to the main Dogo Onsen, there are two other batthouses known as Askusa-no-Yu and Tsubaki-no-Yu, which you can also relax in.
Dogo Onsen isn’t the only hot-spring area that may have sparked Miyazaki’s creativity. Sekizenkan Ryokan, located in Shima Onsen, features several distinct architectural elements reminiscent of the bathhouse in Spirited Away — especially the red bridge. At night, the ryokan is beautifully lit, and because of its secluded location, it stands out with an almost mystical presence.
But this hidden onsen resort isn’t just famous for its possible Studio Ghibli connection. With a history spanning over 300 years, it’s renowned for its mineral-rich waters, once believed to be effective for “40,000 illnesses.” Its scenic setting, perched over the Shima River and close to mountains, also makes it a popular retreat.
Note: A night here can cost around ¥52,000, and it’s often booked out months in advance!
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Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata is another hot-spring town that shares similarities to the bathhouse in Spirited Away. It’s especially famous for its stunning night view, when the streets are lit up with golden lights — a scene reminiscent of the atmosphere in the film.
Although the connection isn’t as strongly supported as it is for the other two locations, Ginzan Onsen remains one of the most famous hot-spring towns in Japan. Despite being beautiful all year round, people tend to visit during the snow season as the blanket of white offers the perfect backdrop to the golden-lit wooden ryokans.
You don’t just need to soak in a hot spring. Yamagata has plenty of other things to offer — temple hikes, peaceful shrines, and much more.
It appears Miyazaki drew inspiration from many places across Japan for his cult classic Spirited Away. While Dogo Onsen gets the main spotlight, it isn’t the only place in Shikoku that may have influenced the film. A small seaside station, with just two benches facing the bright blue sea, is similar to the one in the iconic train scene.
The journey to this station also mirrors the feel of that scene. As you travel from Matsuyama Station to Shimonada Station, you’re treated to views of gorgeous greenery and the blinding blue sea. As the train winds its way along the coast, the stops become more rural, and you slowly slip into the unknown — just like Chihiro does.
While the best time to visit is arguably during sunset, the irregular train schedule can make it tricky to time — though it’s still possible. Apart from taking photos, there’s not much else to do near the station. Plus, it can get crowded due to its popularity. That said, it’s still worth going. The ¥630 train ride (one way) gives you time to unwind and embrace a quieter side of Japan.
Another one of the classic scenes in Spirited Away is when Chihiro walks barefoot through the water, where there are underwater train tracks. Across Japan, some eager fans have discovered similar tracks in places like Shikoku near Shimonada Station, and Saganoseki Beach in Oita. However, the ones at Lake Shikaribetsu in Hokkaidō have gotten a lot of press recently.
Located within the Daisetsuzan National Park, Lake Shikaribetsu is the highest-elevation lake in the entire prefecture. It’s also fondly known as the “Lake of Stars”, since on a clear night you can see a breathtaking display of stars reflecting on the surface of the water.
As for the rail tracks themselves — they descend deep into the lake, creating an almost endless, dreamlike effect. With the backdrop of green trees and mountains, this is one of the best spots to recreate that Ghibli-style photo. And all while exploring the beauty of Japan’s natural landscapes.
Hidden away on the island of Yakushima, the forest hiking trail looks strikingly similar to the one in Princess Mononoke. With ancient cedar trees, streams, and easy-to-walk paths, it’s easy to get lost in the wonder of the forest.
There are three different hiking trails, with the Taikoiwa Rock Round Trip Course leading you to the exact location featured in the film. If you’re considering walking the course, be prepared for at least 4 hours on foot. You also have the option of going with a private guide if you’d like to deepen your experience.
The forest isn’t just popular with Ghibli fans — it’s actually one of our team’s favorite places in Japan.
Hiroshima For fans of Ponyo on the Cliff By the Sea
Photo by Getty Images
Ponyo on the Cliff By the Sea, known simply as Ponyo, is about a goldfish who turns into a young girl. She goes on an adventure with 5-year-old Sousuke, who lives in the town above the sea. The backdrop town in the film is actually based on Tomonoura, a port town in Hiroshima Prefecture.
Unlike some of the other locations on this list, which are subject to speculation about whether they actually inspired the films, Miyazaki stayed in Tomonoura for an extended period. This makes the connection quite evident and apparently, there is a discreet nod to the town in the film.
Tomonoura isn’t just famous for being featured in films — it has long been regarded as one of the most scenic fishing towns in Japan. In addition to its fresh, local seafood, the town is also known for its famous medicinal liquor, Homeishu.
Pro tip: Want to experience the town by water like Ponyo herself? Consider joining this half-day kayak tour.
Despite not being directly connected to any film, Yufuin has become known as the unofficial Ghibli town. In particular, Yufuin Floral Village is famous for its Ghibli-esque atmosphere. Designed to replicate the Cotswolds region of England, this small, whimsical townscape is filled with character-themed shops. These include ones dedicated to the Moomins, Peter Rabbit, and of course, Studio Ghibli.
The shops are tucked inside tiny brick cottages that look like they’ve been lifted straight out of Kiki’s Delivery Service or The Cat Returns. Cozy, nostalgic, and full of charm.
Once you have wandered down this small-scale townscape, roam around the rest of this hot-spring town. There are many more quirky shops waiting to be discovered, as well as some delicious bamboo charcoal ice cream. Make sure to check out our detailed day-itinerary.
Pro tip: Want to see more places in addition to Yufuin? Join this day trip from Fukuoka to visit Dazaifu, Beppu, and more.
Honorable mentions
Although these places might not be real-life locations, they still include Ghibli in one way or another.
This tucked-away museum in Izu has a charming collection of teddy bears. On the top floor, you’ll find the world of My Neighbor Totoro brought to life — complete with a life-size plush Cat Bus. The exhibition itself is lovely, but surprisingly, it’s not even the best part.
The museum has a workshop space where you can make your own teddy bear — including a Totoro plushie. Priced at ¥6,380 and requiring advance booking, this experience lets you customize your Totoro with a leaf-shaped hat and your choice of a vegetable or a foilage-themed accessory to hold.
If you’re unable to join the workshop, don’t worry, you can find Ghibli goods in the souvenir shop on the ground floor.
Catbus and Totoro at Ghibli Park Exhibition in Tokyo 2024. | Photo by Jane Pipkin
Across Japan, there are a few other notable locations that feature Studio Ghibli-themed elements. However, these are generally not worth planning a dedicated trip for. Instead, just visit if you happen to be in the area already.
The only Ghibli Museum is located in Mitaka, Tokyo. Tickets are famously difficult to get — but we’ve put together a guide to help you score one.
Note: There is also the Ghibli Park near Nagoya, but that’s more like an “amusement park” (without rides though).
Often, there are temporary Studio Ghibli exhibitions across Japan, so it’s worth checking upcoming events to see if any coincide with your visit.
What are Studio Ghibli things to do in Tokyo?
If you aren’t able to get to these Ghibli towns, don’t worry, there’s enough just in Tokyo. From Totoro-shaped cream puffs to a magical clock, there are plenty of Ghibli-themed things to do in Tokyo.
Need even more inspiration? Check out this Ghibli reel:
Written by Jane Pipkin
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