My Neighbor Totoro has undeniably become an iconic symbol of Japan and the movie itself is seen as a national animation. It is a work of art from “Studio Ghibli” which has also produced many amazing films such as Spirited Away, The Red Turtle and many more.

It might come as a surprise to many of you that it was actually back in 1988, when My Neighbor Totoro was released, which is why, the film has a nostalgic feeling when you watch it.

 

To this day, My Neighbor Totoro remains one of the most iconic animations. Totoro is still very popular in Japan, and products featuring him can be found everywhere, just like places that are dedicated to him. There are many locations in Japan where you can visit real life Totoro and experience the overall ambience of the animation.

It is no surprise that some people visit Japan just to relive their favourite childhood memories, today, we will introduce you to the real-life locations of my Neighbor Totoro!

 

 

 

1. Totoro No Mori

 

Photo: 4travel.jp

 

This place is great for those who enjoy the beauty of nature. It is located in Sayama Hills, which stretches from Musashino region of Tokyo to Tokorozawa City.  A forest that is popular among hikers due to its beautiful surrounding nature. With its tree-lined paths, farmlands, and hidden temples, the "Totoro forest," as we call it today, will delight fans.

In 2013, it was a nationally registered tangible cultural property. The old-fashioned structure reminiscent of Satsuki and Mei's house from the animation. If you are a big Totoro fan you may found yourself wondering around the house, imagining all the scenes from the movie!

 

There is also a big Totoro Statue on the front porch of the house that can be seen from far away. You can sit at the porch and enjoy looking at the beautiful nature outside just like a scene from the movie!

 

Photo: 4travel.jp

 

 Photo: Photohito

 

Photo: Photohito

 

 

 

2. Satsuki and Mei's House

 

Photo: 4travel.jp 

 

Located in a small town of Nagakute in Aichi prefecture. The house was built in 2005 for the Aichi World Expo, this house is to resemble Satsuki and Mei’s iconic house straight from the animation. The house is furnished faithfully to match the film set and to give you a glimpse of the rural lifestyle in 1950s. Not only the exterior but also the interior is created to give you a nostalgic feeling as you slipped in time, it feels as if you're in a movie scene.

It even has a room with books piling up messily to resemble the real house from the film. This will definitely take you back to the first time you have watched My Neighbor Totoro. When you walk into this room, you might even expect Mei chan to bring a bouquet of flowers!

 

Photo: 4travel.jp

 

 

 

3. Ghibli Museum

 

Photo: 4travel.jp 

 

This museum is about 15-minute walk from Mitaka Station in Tokyo, it is a popular spot for Studio Ghibli lover! There are also short animations that can only be seen at the museum, which is the main reason why most fans visit this place. 

Not only that you can meet Totoro, but you can also fully experience various works of Ghibli. As you walk in, a big Totoro will welcome you in his reception office, of course, this is not a real reception, but many fans wish it was!

 

 

 

4. Kosugi no Osugi (Totoro tree)

 

Photo: Photohito

 

This large cedar tree called “Kosugi no Osugi” is around 30-minute drive from Shinjo Station. It has a big root circumference of 6.3m, the tree height is around 20m and the branch is a whooping 17m. Yes! It is a massive, this is a spot where you can truly enjoy the beauty of nature.

It became famous due to its resembling structure as Totoro. If you are around the area, you might want to visit this place for fun as well as to experience the rich nature surrounding it.

 

 

5. Totoro Bus Stop

 

Photo: Hatena.ne.jp

 

Tucked away in the outskirt of a city called Saiki, the place called “Totoro bus stop” which is located in the Saiki City in Oita Prefecture. Previously, it used to be a part of a bus route, but the route has since been abolished, however the city decided to keep the illustration boards and animation characters to keep up with the film atmosphere.

This little spot has become popular among local and tourists not only that it resembles a scene from the iconic movie, but it will bring you closer to nature as well.  

 

 

 

Sources

Icotto

Tabijikan

Japan-experience

Kanarino

 

Photos

Travel-star