Have you ever watched an anime and thought to yourself, ‘I wish that place was real’? Think of that Spirited Away sea railway scene, where the train is gliding along the ocean and supposedly will never return from where it’s going – have you ever wanted to be Chihiro at that moment? Or how about the stunning green forest from Princess Mononoke? Did you know you can actually visit it? Real life Studio Ghibli locations have been found to be the inspiration for some of the greatest works of the anime world, and the locations are just as magical as the scenes!
In this post we will run through just a handful of the different real life Studio Ghibli locations from your favourite animes that you didn’t realise actually existed, ranging from Princess Mononoke on Yakushima island to Shimonada Station from Spirited Away and more!
2. Hanasaki Line – Spirited Away
3. Sayama Hills – My Neighbour Totoro
4. Takase District – Only Yesterday
5. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest – Princess Kaguya
6. Shimonada Station – Spirited Away
7. Satsuki and Mei’s House – My Neighbour Totoro
8. Yakushima Island – Princess Mononoke
9. Okinoshima Island – Castle In The Sky
10. Kitazawa Flotation Plant – Castle In The Sky
11. Kiki’s Bakery, Yufuin Floral Village – Kiki’s Delivery Service
12. Yamate Area – From Up On Poppy Hill
When we think of the beautiful scenes and backdrops from Studio Ghibli, one movie instantly comes to mind – Spirited Away. Although every scene is a masterpiece, only a handful of Studio Ghibli locations are actually real, and Dogo Onsen is one of them.
Where is Dogo Onsen, and what makes it so special? For fans of the animated film, Dogo Onsen stands out as one of the few real-life inspirations for the film’s iconic bathhouse. Known as the “emperor bathhouse,” this historic onsen is located on “sleepy Shikoku,” the smallest of Japan’s four main islands.
You can find this scene from Spirited Away with little trouble, as it is located in the main city, Matsuayama. Take a train from JR Matsuyama Station and you’ll get there in about 30 minutes.
Although the resemblance isn’t immediately obvious, the subtle details are what make this onsen the inspiration of the bathhouse in Spirited Away. To fully experience the ambiance, consider staying at a traditional Dogo Onsen ryokan nearby!
2. Hanasaki Line – Spirited Away
This list couldn’t resist a Spirited Away scene… But understandably so, as one of the most significant scenes in this Ghibli masterpiece also happens to have a spookily similar location in real life! Located on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, the Hanasaki Line is almost certainly the inspiration behind Hayao Miyazaki’s stunning train scene.
The Hanasaki Line refers to the Nemuro Main Line, a route in between Higashi-Kushiro and Nemuro Station. When riding a train on this line, you get to see the coastline that faces that Pacific Ocean, with beautiful reflections casted in the waters.
Its serene backdrop truly makes it one of the most magical Studio Ghibli locations out there. No doubt that Hayao Miyazaki took inspiration from this place!
The Hanasaki Line runs a limited number of trains each day and can be accessed from various stations. From Tokyo, you can take a flight to Kushiro Airport, then take a shuttle bus to Kushiro City Center, which is right by the Higashi-Kushiro Station.
Nicknamed ‘Totoro forest’, there is no ambiguity here – this is one of the most certified Studio Ghibli locations in real life! Sayama Hills is a 3,500 hectare mix of lush greenery, farms, fields, and of course, home to Totoro’s forest.
To get to Totoro’s Forest, you can take a train from Tokyo, either from Ikebukuro Station or Shinjuku Station, and ride to Seibu-Kyujo-mae station. From here, it’s a short 25-minute walk to the forest.
The forest stretches across Saitama and Tokyo prefectures. The area is ideal for hiking, with paths winding through thick forests, ponds, and rolling hills, making it feel like stepping into Totoro’s world.
Sayama Hills is a safe family-friendly destination with clearly marked paths, regular maintenance, and occasional guided tours that enhance the experience within Totoro Forest Japan.
As you hike around Sayama Hills, do check out Kurosuke’s House, a lovingly preserved old farmhouse sustained by Miyazaki himself through the Totoro Fund that protects and preserves the natural habitat of Totoro Forest.
Here, you can often find Totoro memorabilia, local crafts, and exhibits that keep the Totoro Forest Spirit alive.
Now, how about this for a classic Studio Ghibli movie? For fans of Only Yesterday, this lesser-known gem from Studio Ghibli beautifully comes to life in the Takase District of the Yamagata Prefecture. The scenery in this district is almost too similar to the scenes during the countryside holiday of Taeko.
In the Takase District, you will definitely come across vibrant fields of yellow flowers, particularly the lovely safflowers that bloom during the season of July. The beautiful yellow flower fields from Isao Takahata’s movie are accessible to visitors, so make sure you hike through the Takase district of Yamagata to take in the safflower scenery.
Conveniently, this is one of the easier Studio Ghibli locations to access from this list, as Takase is located in Yamagata prefecture which is a 2-hour Shinkansen ride from Tokyo. As soon as you arrive, you’ll see the striking similarities between the film’s backdrops and the Takase District.
For fans of Princess Kaguya, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest provides a serene setting reminiscent of scenes from the film, which reimagines the classic Japanese folk tale The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter. This Studio Ghibli remake encaptures Princess Kaguya in a tranquil bamboo forest… But where is it? It’s located right in Kyoto.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest or Sagano Bamboo Forest located in Arashiyama, Kyoto, is one of Japan’s most iconic and instagrammed locations, but did you know that scenes from Princess Kaguya were directly inspired by this scenic area? Don’t worry too much about getting there either, as it sits only a couple of minutes’ walk away from the Torokko Arashiyama Station.
Beyond the bamboo forest, many visitors also enjoy exploring the area and can try out different activities like the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Train or the Kyoto Bike Tour – The Bamboo Forest & Arashiyama.
Channel your inner Princess Kaguya and immerse yourself in the lush bamboo pathways of Arashiyama!
Does this train stop look familiar? That’s right – it’s none other than Shimonada Station one of the most iconic Studio Ghibli locations. Resembling the magical sea railway of Spirited Away, the Shimonada Station is located in Iyo, Ehime Prefecture.
Take the JR Shikoku Yosan Line, which can be boarded at JR Matsuyama Station, and you’ll arrive at the Shimonada Station in less than an hour. For a more luxurious experience, try out the Iyonada Monogatari, a sightseeing train that goes through the Iyo-Nada Strait only on weekends and national holidays.
Though a bit off the beaten path, visiting Shimonada Station is a great opportunity to spend a few days exploring Shikoku, the island that consists of Ehime and four other prefectures. For die-hard Spirited Away fans, you’re in luck, because the Shimonada Station and the Dogo Onsen are actually both in Ehime!
As you visit Shimonada Station and Dogo Onsen, you can definitely maximize your Shikoku experience by exploring the beautiful coastline of Seto Inland Sea, cruising through the Naruto Whirlpools, and visiting the remote Iya Valley.
Isn’t this one strikingly similar to the original? Well, it might seem like a little bit of a cheat though, but this Studio Ghibli location inspired the real one! Here, you’ll truly feel like you are actually in a Ghibli film.
Nestled within the Ghibli Park in Aichi, this is your best chance to experience the feel of Satsuki and Mei’s house from My Neighbour Totoro. The best way to get here is from Nagoya Station, which can be accessed via train, bus, or cab.
This is as “real” as Studio Ghibli locations can get, but don’t just stop here – the Ghibli Park is a magical Ghibli wonderland, so be sure to explore what else the area has to offer!
Any Princess Mononoke fan will have undoubtedly noticed the luscious forest we see in the film. This may be the most out of the way location on this list, but it certainly isn’t one to miss. The forest is located on the island of Yakushima, Kagoshima prefecture.
The island of Yakushima, an enchanting and lush UNESCO World Heritage site, is famously known as the real-life inspiration for Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke. This ancient forest, with its towering cedar trees and mist-covered landscapes, mirrors the mystical, untouched nature depicted in the film.
Getting from Tokyo to Yakushima Island is simple, with options like direct flights or a ferry to Yakushima Island from Kagoshima.
If you’re thinking of spending more than a day, there are hotels in Yakushima Island that you can choose from, such as Sankara Hotel & Spa or the Yakushima Green Hotel.
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9. Okinoshima – Castle In The Sky
No Studio Ghibli tour would be complete without mentioning Laputa: Castle In The Sky. Similar to Yakushima Island, getting to Okinoshima Island can be quite a challenge, but that should not stop you from visiting this treasured Castle In The Sky location.
Okinoshima, part of the Tomogashima island chain, was once a base for the Japanese Imperial Army. Its remnants of red brick military fortresses and tunnels are the inspiration behind the ruins of Castle in the Sky. The forested paths, decaying stairways, and towering ruins create a landscape that feels both serene and surreal, much like Laputa itself.
Public access to the island is strictly limited, as it is considered a sacred site. However, a worship hall called Okitsu-miya Yohaisho was built on a coastal terrace located on Oshima Island, which is northside of Okinoshima. From here, you can still see the sacred island from afar.
The Okitsu-miya Yohaisho shrine can be accessed by taking a bus from JR Togo Station/Fukuma station to the Konominato Harbor, then riding a ferry to Oshima Harbor that will take you to a bus stop that leads to the shrine.
Besides a clear view of Okinoshima island, you can visit the different facilities on Oshima Island such as the Oshima Cultural Center, Windmill Observation Tower, and the Miura Cave. Here, you will learn more about the mystery of Okinoshima Island and discover how the people of the region preserve their faith in this sacred site.
10. Kitazawa Flotation Plant – Castle In The Sky
Another classic location found in Castle in the Sky is the Kitazawa Flotation Plant found on Sado Island. Built in the 1940’s, this facility was meant to process gold ore and is now a historical landmark filled with abandoned industrial structures reclaimed by nature.
Since the island is about 50 kilometers off the coast of Niigata Prefecture, it can be accessed by ferry through two of its ports: Ryotsu and Ogi.
The Ryotsu route starts from the Niigata Port, while the Ogi route starts from the Naoetsu Port. Niigata and Naoetsu are both one Shinkansen away from Tokyo. Take note that the Naoetsu-Ogi route does not operate during winter.
The towering concrete ruins and moss-covered walls of this area echoes the film’s depiction of Laputa, the ancient floating island. The mysterious yet enchanting atmosphere of the Kitazawa Flotation Plant provides visitors an extraordinary experience of adventure and discovery!
If you plan on visiting Sado Island for the Kitazawa Flotation Plant, it’s highly recommended to set your trip in August just in time for Earth Celebration! Sado Island hosts this annual music festival that features several renowned Kodo taiko drummers and dancers.
Combine your visit to the Kitazawa Flotation Plant with the Earth Celebration and you’ve got a rich mix of Studio Ghibli locations, music, and Japanese history!
11. Kiki’s Bakery, Yufuin Floral Village – Kiki’s Delivery Service
For Kiki’s Delivery Service enthusiasts, this one’s for you! In the Oita Prefecture, there is a charming little town that houses the Yufuin Floral Village, inspired by traditional English architecture. The Yufuin Floral Village is actually a quaint mini theme park filled with petting zoos and artisan stalls resembling the Cotswolds region in England!
Within the village is a bakery called Kiki’s Bakery, dedicated to the actual bakery shop of Kiki in the film. The Yufuin Floral Village can be accessed via bus or train from Fukuoka, Beppu, and Kumamoto. All routes will lead to Yufuin Station, which is walkable to the village.
The bakery is designed to look like it belongs in Kiki’s world, built with old-fashioned cobblestone and adorned with displays featuring Kiki and her black cat companion, Jiji. Kiki’s Bakery also sells an array of baked goods and souvenirs inspired by the film, serving different kinds of bread from butter croissants to pretzels.
Additionally, you can even borrow costume pieces to dress up as your favorite Kiki’s Delivery Service character! Of course, Yufuin Floral Village is the destination for fans to step right into Kiki’s shoes. However, you can still enjoy a treat or two from Kiki’s Bakery even if you’re not a fan of Studio Ghibli.
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12. Yamate Area – From Up On Poppy Hill
Location: Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0862
From Up on Poppy Hill is set in the Yamate Area of Yokohama. Known for its Western-style architecture and picturesque landscapes, Yamate resembles the film’s coastal town where Umi and Shun’s story unfolds.
In the film, there are two shops that are found in Yamate; the meat shop and the flower shop. You can imagine how the shopkeepers must feel knowing that their actual stores have been immortalized in this nostalgic and beautiful Studio Ghibli film!
Walking along Motomachi Street and through Yamate Park, you’ll encounter tree-lined paths, European inspired architecture, and views of the bay that are all reminiscent of the scenery in the film.
Getting Yamate Area means two options: the Motomachi-Chukagai and Ishikawacho stations. If you want to explore the entire district of Yamate, take the Ishikawacho Station, or the JR Negishi Line.
Additionally, you can also visit Negishi Natsukusahi Park (The Old House of Yagishita Family) that resembles the Coquelicot Manor, a boarding house overlooking the post in From Up On Poppy Hill.
13. Tokorozawa Aviation Museum – The Wind Rises
The Tokorozawa Aviation Museum in Saitama is a fitting tribute to the spirit of The Wind Rises, Studio Ghibli’s film centered on aviation, dreams, and the life of aeronautical engineer Jiro Horikoshi.
Explore the history of aviation and admire the museum’s exhibits on flight engineering! In fact, the museum showcases real aircrafts, flight simulators, and interactive displays that showcase the mechanics and beauty of aviation.
The best way to get to Tokorozawa is by train. If you’re coming from Tokyo, you can ride from the Ikebukuro Station which leads you directly to Tokorozawa Station in just 30 minutes. The Seibu-Shinjuku Line at the Seibu-Shinjuku Station is also an option if you’re in Kabukicho.
In The Wind Rises, the film presents Jiro’s sketches that are made up of blueprints of early aircraft models, vintage planes, and other mechanical parts of airplanes. You can find similar sketches displayed in the museum, providing a unique opportunity for fans to immerse themselves in the real-life history that inspired Studio Ghibli’s take on aviation.
14. Tomonoura – Ponyo
Location: Tomo Tomocho, 福山市 広島県 720-0201, Japan
Studio Ghibli’s Ponyo is a tale of a magical fish-girl and her friendship with a human boy set in a mystical seaside village. The setting of Ponyo is inspired by Tomonoura, a port town at the southern end of Fukuyama City, Hiroshima Prefecture.
This picturesque, old-fashioned fishing town takes pride in its charming fishing townscape as well as its chill and laid-back atmosphere. The town’s narrow streets, traditional wooden houses, and boats dotting the harbor embody the peaceful yet mesmerizing visuals of Sosuke and Ponyo’s world.
The best way to get to Tomonour is via bus from Fukuyama Station. Make sure you look out for buses bound for Tomo Port, which stop at the Tomo Port Bus Stop of Tomonoura.
An itinerary in Tomonoura consists of walking along the port, exploring old temples, and even visiting spots that Miyazaki drew from for Ponyo, such as the ancient Joyato Lighthouse. Let the calm and serene waters of Tomonoura take you to Ponyo’s world!
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15. Studio Ghibli Museum, Tokyo
This list cannot end without mentioning the Studio Ghibli Museum located at Mitaka, Tokyo. Instead of visiting the Studio Ghibli locations all over Japan, why not let the Studio Ghibli Museum show you in one giant museum full of magic and art?
Luckily, this location can be easily accessed by taking the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to either Kichijoji or Mitaka. If you’re coming from Shibuya, take the Keio Inokashira Line to Kichijoji. From here, you can easily walk to the museum.
Designed by Hayao Miyzaki himself, this museum presents itself like a storybook, making visitors feel like they’re literally stepping into a story.
Environments from different Ghibli films are incorporated in the museum, like the statue of the Robot Soldier from Castle in the Sky. A giant Catbus replica from My Neighbour Totoro can be found here too!
Inside, the museum’s exhibits are a blend of art, animation, and interactive installations that will show you the process of creating Studio Ghibli films and more behind-the-scenes content you can only find within the walls of this quirky museum. Short films made by Studio Ghibli are also shown exclusively in the in-house cinema.
If you’re a fan of Studio Ghibli films in general, let the Studio Ghibli Museum show you glimpses of their most iconic films and experience the inner workings of Japan’s most beloved animation studio. Who knew the magic and whimsy of the Ghibli universe can easily be found in Tokyo?
Witness the Magic of Studio Ghibli!
Wrapping up our journey as we discover these real-life Studio Ghibli locations, it’s clear that Studio Ghibli’s worlds aren’t as far away as they may seem. From serene coastal towns to mystical forests, the beautiful landscapes of Japan have truly inspired the Studio Ghibli films we all love and enjoy.
On your next Japan trip, use this list as a guide to help you hunt for these Studio Ghibli locations as part of your itinerary! If you are also thinking of bringing Studio Ghibli to your room, you can check out some merchandise here.
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