Halal food guide for expats in Shanghai
Practical halal food guide for expats in Shanghai: find 清真 restaurants, mosques (Xiaotaoyuan, Hengshan Road), use Dianping, halal groceries and Ramadan tips.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Practical halal food guide for expats in Shanghai: find 清真 restaurants, mosques (Xiaotaoyuan, Hengshan Road), use Dianping, halal groceries and Ramadan tips.
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