Quick overview
Everything you need to know at a glance.
LOCATION
Mitaka, Western Tokyo (inside Inokashira Park)
RECOMMENDED TIME
2–3 hours inside the museum
RESERVATION
Advance booking only – no on-site sales
TYPE
Animation art museum & interactive experience
⚠️ You cannot buy tickets at the museum entrance. All admission is by advance reservation only.
About the Ghibli Museum
Designed by Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki, the museum feels like walking through one of his films.
The Ghibli Museum, Mitaka is a small, whimsical museum located at the edge of
Inokashira Park in Mitaka, west of central Tokyo. It showcases original artwork,
storyboards, and installations from classic Studio Ghibli films like
My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, and
Howl’s Moving Castle.
Rather than a typical “follow the arrows” museum, there is no fixed route.
You are encouraged to wander, get a little “lost”, open small doors, peek into corners, and discover
the space in your own way – just like exploring a Ghibli world.
Highlights include the famous Catbus room for children, a rooftop garden with a
full-size Laputa robot, a cozy bookstore, the
Straw Hat Café, and the Saturn Theater, where exclusive short films are screened.
Tickets, prices & entry times
Entrance to the Ghibli Museum is controlled by timed entry tickets.
Your ticket specifies the exact date and entry time. You must enter during that time slot,
but you can usually stay inside the museum until closing time (18:00).
Official ticket prices
- Adults (19+): ¥1,000
- Ages 13–18: ¥700
- Ages 7–12: ¥400
- Ages 4–6: ¥100
- Ages 3 and under: free
If you buy through partner agencies or booking platforms, final prices may be higher due to service
fees and language support.
Entry time slots
Typical entry slots (subject to change):
When tickets go on sale
Tickets usually go on sale around one month in advance, typically on the
10th of the previous month at 10:00 JST. For example, tickets for July often
open on June 10 at 10:00 (Japan time).
For the most accurate schedule and booking links, always check the
official ticket information page
.
Passport & name checks
Tickets are nominative. The name on your reservation should match your passport,
and staff may check your ID at the entrance. Make sure to bring the same passport you used to book.
How to get to Ghibli Museum (Mitaka)
The museum is located at:
Ghibli Museum, Mitaka
1-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan
From Shinjuku Station
-
Take the JR Chūō Line (rapid) to Mitaka Station (about 14 minutes).
-
From Mitaka Station south exit, walk about 15 minutes through Inokashira Park,
following the signs to the museum.
-
Alternatively, take the community bus (often a yellow “Ghibli Museum Loop Bus”)
from the station to the museum.
From Shibuya Station
-
Take the Keio Inokashira Line to Kichijōji Station.
-
Walk about 20 minutes through Inokashira Park, or board a local bus
heading towards the museum.
By taxi
-
A taxi from Shinjuku to Mitaka typically costs around ¥3,000–¥4,000
depending on traffic.
Practical tips for your visit
-
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your entry time to allow for ticket checks.
-
No photos are allowed inside the museum; photography is usually fine outside.
-
Plan 2–3 hours inside the museum, plus extra time to enjoy Inokashira Park.
-
The Straw Hat Café offers snacks, sweets and drinks – lines can be long,
especially on weekends.
-
Every ticket includes an exclusive short film in the Saturn Theater, only
shown at the museum.
-
If your preferred date is sold out, look at weekday mornings, which often sell
out slower than weekends and holidays.
FAQ – Ghibli Museum, Mitaka
Can I buy tickets at the museum entrance?
No. All admission is by advance reservation only. You must purchase a ticket in advance
through official channels or authorized partners. No tickets are sold on-site.
How far in advance should I buy my ticket?
Tickets usually go on sale about one month in advance, often on the 10th at 10:00 (Japan time)
for the following month. Popular dates can sell out quickly, so be ready right when tickets open.
Can I change my entry time after booking?
In most cases, no. Tickets are issued for a fixed time slot and date, and changes are generally
not allowed. Double-check your chosen slot before finalizing the booking.
How long does a visit to the Ghibli Museum take?
Most visitors spend 2–3 hours inside the museum. You can take longer if you also
enjoy the park, café and rooftop area before or after your indoor visit.
Do I need my passport to enter?
Yes, you should bring the passport used when booking your ticket. Staff may check that the
name on your reservation matches your passport at the entrance.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Absolutely. The museum is very family-friendly, with interactive exhibits and a special
Catbus room for younger children (age limits apply). It’s one of the best attractions in Tokyo
for Ghibli fans of all ages.
Can I take photos inside the Ghibli Museum?
Photography is not allowed inside the exhibition areas. You can usually
take photos outside the building, on the rooftop, and around Inokashira Park.
Combine with nearby experiences
Make the most of your day in western Tokyo.
- Walk or rent a boat in Inokashira Park.
- Explore the trendy streets around Kichijōji.
- Enjoy coffee and sweets at local cafés near the park.
- Visit central Tokyo (Shinjuku / Shibuya) in the afternoon or evening.
More ideas from japantrip.online
Coming soon: one-click itineraries that connect your Ghibli Museum ticket with trains, passes and other attractions.
- TeamLab Planets & Odaiba day trip
- Tokyo Skytree & Asakusa combo
- Disney Resort (Disneyland & DisneySea) planning
- Mount Fuji & Kawaguchiko routes
