|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
The Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo, is a dream destination for Studio Ghibli fans and one of the most magical places to visit in Japan. But scoring a ticket can be tricky. Here’s your stress-free, step-by-step guide to booking Ghibli Museum tickets in 2025.
Why the Ghibli Museum Is So Popular
The museum is a whimsical celebration of the beloved Studio Ghibli films, from My Neighbor Totoro to Spirited Away. It features exclusive short films, original artwork, interactive exhibits, and even a life-sized Catbus. With its cozy, hand-crafted feel and limited daily visitors, it’s a unique and intimate experience that fans don’t want to miss.
Where Is the Ghibli Museum?
The Ghibli Museum is located in Mitaka, a quiet suburb of western Tokyo. From Shinjuku Station, it’s about a 20-minute ride to Mitaka Station, followed by a 15-minute walk through the scenic Inokashira Park. Or you can catch the bus like I did which takes you near the entrance.
Ghibli Museum, Mitaka
1-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan
Website https://www.ghibli-museum.jp/
How Ghibli Museum Tickets Work in 2025
- No tickets are sold at the door.
- Entry is limited and requires time-slotted advance reservations.
- Tickets sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons like spring (cherry blossom) and fall (autumn foliage).
Booking Options for Foreign Tourists
1. Book Through Lawson Ticket Website
The official online booking platform for international visitors is Lawson Ticket:
- Website: l-tike.com/st1/ghibli-en
- Tickets for the following month go on sale on the 10th of each month at 10 AM JST.
- Create an account beforehand.
- Have your credit card ready.
2. Booking via Authorized Travel Agencies
Prefer a hassle-free option? Book through one of these agencies:
These agencies often bundle tickets with tours or extras and may charge a premium, but they provide more booking flexibility.
Tips to Secure Your Ticket
- Set a reminder and log in 30 minutes before 10 AM JST on the release date.
- Get onto the website and wait in the virtual lobby
- Use multiple devices, i.e laptop, iPad, tablet, mobile phone
- Be flexible with your travel dates and time slots.
- Use a stable internet connection and a working credit card.
- Consider weekdays over weekends for better availability.
Ticket Prices (As of 2025)
- Adults (19+): ¥1,000
- Youth (13-18): ¥700
- Children (7-12): ¥400
- Toddlers (4-6): £100
- Infants (0-3): Free
What If Tickets Are Sold Out?
- There is no official waitlist or resale.
- Check authorized resellers like Klook or JTB for available packages.
- Try for less popular days (midweek, rainy season, etc.).
What to Expect During Your Visit
- The Saturn Theater screens exclusive short films.
- Climb aboard a full-size Catbus (kids only!).
- Explore hand-drawn storyboards, animators’ desks, and behind-the-scenes displays.
- No photography allowed inside, but outdoor areas are photo-friendly.
- Don’t miss the Ghibli-themed cafe and gift shop.
Screening Schedule
| June 1 – 30, 2025 (tentative) | Mon Mon the Water Spider | (14 min 54 sec) |
| July 2 – 31, 2025 (tentative) | Mei and the Baby Cat Bus | (13 min 43 sec) |
| August 1 – 31, 2025 (tentative) | House Hunting | (12 min 11 sec) |
Final Tips for a Magical Experience
- Arrive early for your time slot.
- Bring your passport for entry (required), but they didn’t check.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Inokashira Park, a visit to Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory – Kichijoji or shopping in Kichijoji.
Conclusion
Getting Ghibli Museum tickets in 2025 takes some planning, but it’s well worth the effort. Use this guide to make your booking experience smooth and stress-free—and enjoy stepping into the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli.
