Ghibli Fans, A Must-See! 4 Exclusive Experiences You Can Only Have at the Ghibli Museum, Mitaka
The Ghibli Museum, Mitaka, is not merely a place to view animation exhibitions. True to director Hayao Miyazaki’s concept, “Let’s lose our way, together,” the museum is filled with devices and features designed for visitors to step into the world of Ghibli stories and enjoy the experience with all five senses.
In this article, we have carefully selected four special, must-try experiences that Ghibli fans can only enjoy at the museum.
1.Watch Exclusive Short Animated Films at the "Saturn Theater"
The small cinema located in the museum’s basement, named the “Saturn Theater” (土星座), screens original short animated films produced by Studio Ghibli.
Since the featured film changes periodically, visitors can have a new encounter with a story many times. You can watch the short animation using the special admission ticket you exchange upon entry, which is a piece of 35mm film.
A major feature of the “Saturn Theater” is that it is a cinema with windows. This design was conceived so that the experience of watching a film for the first time would not be a frightening memory for children.
2.Savor handmade light meals prepared with care at the "Mugiwara-boushi" Cafe
Located on the museum’s terrace, the “Mugiwara-boushi” Cafe offers visitors the chance to savor simple, warm dishes and sweets.
The appeal lies in the sweet baked goods and drinks that offer a moment of relaxation and a sigh of relief after viewing the exhibitions and films.
3.Experience the unique perspective of Ghibli at the Special Exhibition Room
In addition to the permanent exhibition, the special exhibitions, which change themes periodically, are a major attraction of the museum.
These exhibitions do not simply introduce Ghibli characters or famous scenes; they delve deeply into more fundamental themes, such as “What is animation?” As director Hayao Miyazaki stated, “I want to create a place where new ways of looking at animation can be born,” the special exhibitions cover unique and wide-ranging themes.
4.Encounter the Robot Soldier and the Castle in the Sky at the Rooftop Garden
Located at the top of a spiral staircase, the Rooftop Garden is a space where you feel as though you have wandered into the world of “Castle in the Sky.”
The symbol of the rooftop garden is the towering Robot Soldier. Its overwhelming presence is deeply moving for those who see it. Don’t miss the nearby keystone inscribed with the Laputa characters.
Surrounded by rich greenery, this is the perfect photo spot to feel the world of Ghibli films with all your senses. It is especially recommended to aim for a visit just before closing time.
No, the Ghibli Museum, Mitaka, operates on a time-and-date-specific reservation system , and same-day tickets are not sold. You must purchase tickets in advance through Lawson Ticket (Loppi).
Photography and video recording are prohibited inside the museum building. However, photography is permitted in the outdoor spaces.
You can purchase museum original goods at the museum shop "Mamma Aiuto". You can also buy books recommended by Director Miyazaki at the library room "Tri Hawks". Some limited-edition goods are also available at the "Mugiwara-boushi" Cafe.
Yes, coin lockers are installed on the first floor. Please note that large luggage may not fit in the lockers; in such cases, please consult a staff member.
The Ghibli Museum, Mitaka, is more than just a place to view exhibitions; it is a location where you can feel the stories with all five senses and discover a narrative of your own.
The points we introduced are sure to become unforgettable memories for everyone who loves Ghibli works. When you visit, we highly recommend putting away your smartphone, utilizing all five of your senses, and enjoying the world of Ghibli to your heart’s content.
This article was brought to you by the editorial department of “Another TOKYO TAMA,” operated by the Tama Tourism Promotion Council, which disseminates tourism information for Mitaka City and the entire Tama region.
Ghibli Museum, Mitaka Official Website
https://www.ghibli-museum.jp/en/
Tourism information for the Tama region: “Another TOKYO TAMA”
https://at-tama.tokyo/lang_en/
