Nagoya Ghibli Park Travel Guide

Welcome to Ghibli Park, a magical place where the world of Hayao Miyazaki's animations comes to life! This guide will help you make the most of your visit to this enchanting theme park. ## 1. Basic Information ℹ️ * Location: Inside the Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park (Morikoro Park) in Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture * Opening Date: November 2022 * Features: Unlike traditional amusement parks with thrilling rides, Ghibli Park focuses on recreating scenes and atmospheres from Studio Ghibli animations, offering visitors an immersive experience. * Five Main Areas: * Ghibli's Grand Warehouse * Hill of Youth * Dondoko Forest * Mononoke Village * Valley of Witches ## 2. Transportation 🚄 From Nagoya Station: 1. *Subway Higashiyama Line*: Take the Higashiyama Line subway from Nagoya Station to Fujigaoka Station (about 30 minutes). 2. *Linimo Maglev Train*: Transfer to the Linimo Maglev Train at Fujigaoka Station and ride to Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park Station (about 15 minutes). 3. *Walking*: Walk about 5-10 minutes from Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park Station to the entrance of Ghibli Park. * *Direct Bus*: Alternatively, take a direct bus from Meitetsu Bus Center to Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park, which takes about 40 minutes. * *Driving*: Ghibli Park does not have dedicated parking; visitors must use the parking facilities at Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park. ## 3. Ticket Purchase and Options 🎫 * *Reservation Required*: Ghibli Park operates on a reservation-only basis, and tickets must be purchased in advance. * *Where to Buy Tickets*: * *Domestic*: Tickets can be purchased via the Boo-Woo Ticket website or at Lawson and Ministop convenience stores across Japan using Loppi machines. * *International*: Tickets can be purchased through the Ghibli Park international ticketing page. * *Ticket Release Time*: Tickets are usually released on the 10th of each month at 2 PM (Japan time) for entry two months later. * *Ticket Types*: * *Ghibli Park O-Sanpo Day Pass Standard*: Grants access to all five areas but does not allow entry into certain buildings. * *Ghibli Park O-Sanpo Day Pass Premium*: Grants access to all five areas and all building interiors. * *Important Notes*: * Ghibli's Grand Warehouse has designated entry times; choose your time slot when purchasing tickets. * It is highly recommended to purchase the Premium Pass for a complete experience. * Tickets are limited, so plan ahead and purchase promptly. ## 4. Highlights of Each Area 🏞️ * *Ghibli's Grand Warehouse*: * Indoor area, unaffected by weather. * Features 13 recreated scenes from Ghibli films, such as the train scene from "Spirited Away." * Includes a movie screening room, children's play area, shops, and cafes. * *Hill of Youth*: * Recreates scenes from "Whisper of the Heart," such as the Baron’s office. * Includes the elevator tower from "Castle in the Sky." * *Dondoko Forest*: * "My Neighbor Totoro" themed area with a life-sized replica of the Kusakabe family home. * Features Dondoko-do, a children-only play area. * *Mononoke Village*: * "Princess Mononoke" themed area. * Offers experiences like making sacred rice cakes. * *Valley of Witches*: * Witch-themed area recreating scenes from "Kiki's Delivery Service" and "Howl's Moving Castle." * Includes Howl's Moving Castle and Kiki's house. ## 5. Tips for Visiting 💡 * Arrive Early: Arrive early to avoid crowds. * Wear Comfortable Shoes: The park is large and requires extensive walking. * Sun Protection: Many areas are outdoors, so bring sunscreen. * Plan Ahead: Research the highlights of each area and plan your route. * Photography Rules: Some areas prohibit photography; follow park regulations. * Queue Times: Popular photo spots may require waiting; be patient. * Dining: The park has restaurants and food trucks, but lines may form; consider bringing light snacks. * Accommodation: Stay near Nagoya Station or Sakae Station for convenient transportation. We hope this guide helps you plan a perfect trip to Nagoya's Ghibli Park! 💖