Discover the world of Totoro in Japan

My Neighbor Totoro (となりのトトロ) is one of the films from Studio Ghibli most popular of all time. Many are in love with the totoro character, buy various plushies and objects related to the anime. If you live in or want to travel to Japan, you may want to visit totoro-themed places. That's why we've separated some places that will make you travel and live in the world of totoro in Japan.

For those who don't know, tonari no totoro was released in 1988, written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The story follows a family that has moved to the countryside, soon they discover a world hidden behind their new home. Studio Ghibli films have captured the hearts and minds of people all over the world. If you haven't had a chance to watch this movie yet! Run and watch!

Living the real world of totoro in japan

I won't even mention the Studio Ghibli museum in the article, because it's a must for every fan. Although there are many themed things, shops and objects. I believe that the most interesting things about totoro are scattered throughout Japan.

Morikoro Park in Nagoya

If you're in Nagoya, you can visit Morikoro Memorial Park to see the replica of Satsuki and Mei's house. The house and environment was planned with a lot of love and care, to recreate all the memories of the movie. This house was created in 2005 for the Nagoya world fair. Since then the house has remained in the commemorative park in Nagakute, Aichi.

Living the real world of totoro in japan

Even the interior of the house has been meticulously created. You will see the parent's office filled with books. The kitchen fully decorated with many fine details, looking like an ordinary kitchen from the 50's. All the details of the house like the hole under the house and even the bus stop. When visiting the house you have complete freedom to touch everything, open drawers, cupboards and windows. It's a real immersion into the world of totoro.

Living the real world of totoro in japan
totoro bus stops in japan

One of the most memorable scenes in the film is the bus stop. We can find thousands of photos of people with cosplay of totoro holding a black umbrella at real bus stops. Some stores and people also put a totoro doll at some bus stops or in front of stores to attract the attention of tourists. Finding these locations can be good for you to take memorable photos. Below is a list of spots where to find these themed bus stops:

  • On Ninen-Zaka street near Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto;
  • In Saikai City in Nagasaki;
  • Hakui in Ishikawa Prefecture;
  • In Totoro in Oita Prefecture;
  • At the Studio Ghibli museum;
Living the real world of totoro in japan

The Totoro Forest in Sayama

Many scenes and images from Totoro's film were based on the Sayama Hills (Hills). This forest is located in Yamaguchi and is divided into 39 areas, with striking scenarios for fans. When traveling through this area you will find residential places, tourist spots, various objects and references to the film, perfect for taking pictures. In addition to being able to know all the vegetation and nature present in the totoro film. It is a public forest, no cost to visit and you are free to take pictures. There are small shops and cafes in the area.

In the area of Mikajima and Tokorozawa near Tokyo in Saitama you will find 18 more forests that bear the name of totoro and influenced the creation of the film. For more information on all these areas, we recommend accessing this PDF by clicking here.

Living the real world of totoro in japan

the bus cat from totoro movie

The Cat Bus from the movie is not just fantasy, in Japan there are several real catbuses scattered around. Even some preschools use themed buses for students. It is impossible to live in Japan and not come across anything related to totoro. What do you think about this? Do you know other places or thematic situations? Leave it in the comments and share with friends. There are several thematic things in relation to the film in Japan, to finish we will leave some images and videos below:

Living the real world of totoro in japan

Watch the videos below to travel more:

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