Travel in the footsteps of My Neighbor Totoro

My Neighbor Totoro

My Neighbor Totoro

Studi Ghibli

Discover Japan with Totoro

Many places in Japan have been an inspiration to Hayao Miyazaki's movie "My Neighbor Totoro". From Mei and Satsuki's house, the two heroes of the film, to the forest of Sayama Hills. Follow in the footsteps of one of the most famous fictional characters in Japan.

Totoro, an atypical neighbor who has become a symbol of Japan

It was in 1988 that Totoro, the Studio Ghibli mascot, was born. Self-titled hero of the film My Neighbor Totoro, Totoro, is a forest spirit that strangely resembles a cat.

This imaginary animal meets Mei and Satsuki, two curious and lively little girls, when they move into an old house close to the forest clearing. Endearing and full of fun, Totoro leads them on a rural and charming adventure. During which the two girls will grow up and face everyday life under the benevolent eye of the youkai (Japanese spirits) who populate the surroundings.

Studio Ghibli

Totoro is the emblem of Studio Ghibli.

Studio Ghibli

Where is Mei and Satsuki's house?

It is possible to visit Mei and Satsuki's house in the small town of Nagakute in Aichi prefecture. Located in Ai Chikyuhaku Kinen Koen Park, it was built for the 2005 Aichi World Expo, whose theme was "Nature's Wisdom".

With the movie My Neighbor Totoro being an ode to the environment, the house of the characters had its place in the park!

Satsuki & Mei's house

It is possible to visit the house of Satsuki and Mei in the city of Nagakute (Aichi Prefecture).

Pixta

Located in Mitaka, the Ghibli Museum is probably the most popular tourist spot in western Tokyo. Home to many production secrets, its interior has always been hidden from prying eyes, photos are prohibited inside the museum.

That said, some photographable places have revealed their share of mystery, including a giant Totoro at the museum reception and a cat-bus (another symbolic characters of the film), which is often reproduced in other museums during exhibitions of Miyazaki's work.

The cat-bus from My Neighbor Totoro

The cat-bus from My Neighbor Totoro

DR

  • The bus stop

In the town of Takaharu in Miyazaki prefecture, a couple in their seventies had the brilliant idea of reproducing the bus stop where Mei and Satuski wait for the cat-bus. Composed of a stop sign and a statue of Totoro, the bus stop a popular photo spot for Ghibli fans around the world.

Totoro bus stop in Miyazaki

Totoro bus stop in Miyazaki

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  • Shirohige Cream Puff Factory

Ever thought Totoro was edible? The Shirohige Cream Puff Factory may be of interest to those with a sweet tooth. Located in Setagaya, this small cafe offers delicious cream puffs in the shape of Totoro. These pastries are available with different fillings, including cream, chocolate or matcha.

Totoro cakes

Totoro cakes

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