ROBOT FROM LAPUTA
TOKYO – If you’re a fan of Hayao Miyazaki and his animated masterpieces (e.g. Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro) then this is truly the place for you. More than a museum (quite Disneyesque, actually), visiting Ghibli is like walking into one of Miyazaki’s films. You’ll get a fun and fascinating look into the Ghibli magic, from life-sized prop and character replicas to an inside glimpse into the making of each film. Highlights include the giant robot from Laputa standing guard on the Museum’s roof and a replica of the Neeko (cat) bus from Totorothat kids can bounce around in. A Ghibli animation cel is given to every visitor – a nice touch, especially for fans. There’s Ghibli beer at the café or, if you’re really brave, check out the gift shop where you’ll find crazed Miyazaki fans pushing and shoving in search of their fave Ghibli merchandise. It’s all terribly fun. Tickets are very limited so advance reservations are required. Ghibli is located in Mitaka, about a 20 minute train ride from central Tokyo. www.ghibli-museum.jp
What’s the little thing that makes the Ghibli Museum worthwhile? The feeling you get when you enter that tells you you’ve stumbled upon someplace truly exceptional.
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GHIBLI MUSEUM FRONT
GHIBLI MUSEUM ENTRANCE
GHIBLI MUSEUM CREST
Photos: Laputa Robot by Matthew Klein, Ghibli Museum Front by A1k, Ghibli Musuem Entrance by yuzusour, Ghibli Museum Crest by Eoghan Lynch
Author: Gary Fong
