[2025 Nagakute Attraction] Travel Guide for Dondoko Forest (Updated Jun)

📌Dondoko Forest Address: Japan 〒480-1342 Aichi, Nagakute, Ibaragabasama, Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park (Moricoro Park), Inside Operating Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, weekends open from 9:00 AM Dondoko Forest is more accessible if you take the bus to the entrance. Walking up takes longer than expected, which might leave you short on time to explore the entire Ghibli Park.

Stepping into Ghibli Park is like wandering into a living storybook. Unlike traditional theme parks, this Aichi-based wonderland invites you to slow down, observe, and let Hayao Miyazaki’s worlds unfold around you. But to truly capture its magic, you’ll need a keen eye—here are the secrets you won’t want to miss. ### **1. Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse: A Treasure Trove of Easter Eggs** *Films Featured: Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, Ponyo* - **Hidden Props**: Dive into the “Maze of Wander” and spot subtle nods like the tiny soot sprites (Susuwatari) hiding in corners or the iconic turnip spirit from *Spirited Away*. - **Interactive Surprises**: Turn cranks on miniature sets to activate whimsical animations, like Ponyo’s fish friends swimming across a wall. - **Secret Room**: Tucked away is a gallery of concept art from lesser-known films like *Ocean Waves*—perfect for deep-cut fans. ### **2. Hill of Youth: Whispers of Crossovers** *Films Featured: Whisper of the Heart, The Cat Returns* - **Antique Shop Secrets**: Inside Shizuku’s favorite haunt, find the “Cat Bureau” sign—a cheeky reference to Baron from *The Cat Returns*. - **Elevator Adventure**: The green elevator from *Howl’s Moving Castle* isn’t just for photos. Listen closely—its creaks mimic the film’s soundtrack. ### **3. Dondoko Forest: Nature’s Hidden Charm** *Films Featured: My Neighbor Totoro* - **Soot Sprite Hunt**: Along the forest path, tiny charcoal critters peek from tree hollows. - **Totoro’s Home**: Climb the giant Totoro statue early morning or at dusk for softer crowds and golden-hour photos. ### **4. Mononoke’s Village: Spirits in the Trees** *Films Featured: Princess Mononoke* - **Kodama Guardians**: Spot the white, bobble-headed spirits nestled in the forest. They’re easiest to find near the replica Iron Town gates. - **Authentic Textures**: Touch the weathered wood and rusted metal—crafted to mirror the film’s post-industrial aesthetic. ### **5. Valley of the Witches: Sensory Delights** *Films Featured: Kiki’s Delivery Service, Howl’s Moving Castle* - **Bakery Aromas**: Follow your nose to Kiki’s bakery, where the scent of fresh bread wafts through the air. - **Moving Castle Details**: Howl’s door features a dial with symbols from the film—spin it to see if you can unlock a hidden scene! ### **Pro Tips for the Curious Explorer** - **Slow Down**: Ghibli’s magic is in the details—look up at ceilings, down at drains, and behind doors. - **Chat with Staff**: Many wear subtle Ghibli pins and love sharing trivia. Ask about their favorite secrets! - **Seasonal Shifts**: Visit in autumn for *Totoro*-inspired golden leaves or spring when cherry blossoms frame the Hill of Youth. - **Photography Wisdom**: Some areas restrict photos, but allowed spots (like Satsuki and Mei’s house) are wor

#0yentripnovember #ghiblipark #aichi #aichitourism At Ghibli Park, you need to reserve tickets, especially for the paid areas. You need to plan ahead and prepare, so it's hard to just go on a weekend. But the free areas are pretty cute too. Because it's the site of the Expo, the grounds are very large, so there is a free shuttle bus. I used that to take a peek at Satsuki and Mei's house from Dondoko Forest, and there was one shop I could go to, so I went for a walk. 📍Location: Aichi Rapid Transit Tobu Kyuryo Line (Linimo) Right after getting off at "Aichi Expo Memorial Park" station 🕰️Business hours: Weekdays 10:00-17:00 Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays 9:00-17:00 Closed every Tuesday