Experiencing the Ghibli Park Nagoya, Japan

Discovering Magic: A Journey through Ghibli Park in Aichi Nagoya, Japan

Visiting Ghibli Park had been on our dream list for years. As lifelong fans of Studio Ghibli, we’ve always been captivated by its worlds—whether it’s the cozy forests of My Neighbor Totoro, the spellbinding bathhouse in Spirited Away, or the whimsical magic of Howl’s Moving Castle. So, when we finally had the chance to explore the park in Nagoya, it felt like stepping straight into the movies we grew up loving.

Howls Moving Castle Attraction in Ghibli Park, Aichi Nagoya Japan
 
The moment we walked in, it was like being transported into another world. Lanterns glowed softly, paths twisted through greenery, and every corner seemed to hold a detail that made us whisper, “Wait, doesn’t that remind you of…?” It wasn’t just a theme park—it felt like an invitation to step into Hayao Miyazaki’s imagination.

Pretty Lantern Setup in Ghibli Park, Aichi Nagoya Japan
 

Ghibli Grand Warehouse

The highlight for us had to be the Grand Warehouse. Wandering through, we were surrounded by intricate sets and life-sized recreations from The Secret World of Arrietty, Spirited Away, and From Up on Poppy Hill. Standing in front of Yubaba’s imposing statue was surreal—I half-expected her to bark out orders. Seeing storyboards and sketches up close gave us goosebumps, as if we were peeking into the heart of the creative process that shaped the films we’ve loved for decades.    

Yubaba statue from Spirited Away in Ghibli Park, Aichi Nagoya Japan
 

Natural Beauty and Tranquility

One of the things we didn’t expect was how peaceful the park felt. True to Ghibli’s spirit, it isn’t just about the attractions—it’s about slowing down, noticing the details, and enjoying the quiet beauty of the surroundings. We found ourselves wandering by tranquil ponds and leafy paths, and it felt like the kind of moment Totoro himself might appear at any second.

Movie showcase lineup in Ghibli Park, Aichi Nagoya Japan
 

Themed Attractions

What we loved most was how the park had something for everyone. Kids were laughing and playing in Totoro-themed areas, while we were just as happy exploring the cafes that served dishes inspired by Ghibli films. It felt like being part of a community of fans, all sharing the same spark of joy.

Pro Tips We Wish We Knew

  • Book your tickets early – they sell out quickly, especially for the Grand Warehouse.
  • Wear comfy shoes – the park is spread out and you’ll be doing lots of walking.
  • Slow down – unlike some theme parks, Ghibli Park isn’t about rushing from ride to ride. Take your time to enjoy the atmosphere and small details.

Planning Your Visit with Call Butler

If you’re planning a trip to Japan and want to visit Ghibli Park, here’s one thing that saved us a lot of stress: Call Butler. As excited as we were, figuring out tickets and reservations in Japanese felt overwhelming. 

Call Butler handled it all, making sure our tickets were sorted and our day went smoothly. Think of them as your personal concierge in Japan—whether you need help booking, reserving, or simply navigating the details, they make it seamless so you can focus on the magic.

Visiting Ghibli Park was everything we dreamed of and more. If you’re a fan of Ghibli—or even just someone looking to experience a little wonder—this place is a must.