Tokyo Studio Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Film Appreciation Tour

The Tokyo Studio Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Film Appreciation Tour provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to take in the captivating world of Japan’s renowned animation studio. This meticulously curated experience combines cultural exploration, culinary delights, and an in-depth dive into the artistic brilliance that has enchanted audiences worldwide. Whether a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the Ghibli universe, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression, whetting the appetite for further discovery.

Key Points

• The tour provides a 2.5-hour self-guided visit to the Ghibli Museum, which showcases Studio Ghibli’s animation techniques and production process.
• The tour includes a 1.5-hour buffet lunch at the historic Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, known for its traditional Japanese design.
• Visitors can explore the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum for 1.15 hours, gaining insight into Japan’s architectural heritage.
• On Mondays, the tour may substitute the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum with visits to Jindaiji Temple or Takahata Fudoson Temple.
• The tour offers a comprehensive experience of Japan’s cultural and architectural attractions, with a focus on Studio Ghibli’s renowned films.

Tour Overview

The "Tokyo Studio Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Film Appreciation Tour" offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the iconic Ghibli animation studio in Japan’s capital city.

The 10-hour tour has a 4.5-star rating based on 407 reviews and costs $182.34 per person. It departs at 10:20 AM and accommodates up to 44 travelers, meeting at the JTB Sunrise Tours Sales Office in the Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo.

The itinerary includes a buffet lunch at Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, a visit to the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, and the highlight – a guided tour of the renowned Ghibli Museum in Mitaka.

Itinerary Highlights

Kicking off the tour is a visit to the Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, where guests enjoy a 1-hour 30-minute buffet lunch. However, vegetarian and allergy-friendly meals are not accepted. Next, the group heads to the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum for a 1-hour 15-minute exploration, with substitute stops on Mondays at Jindaiji Temple or Takahata Fudoson Temple. The highlight of the tour is the 2-hour 30-minute visit to the Ghibli Museum Mitaka, where guests can self-guide through the magical world of Studio Ghibli.

Itinerary Highlight	Duration
Hotel Gajoen Tokyo	1h 30m
Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum	1h 15m
Ghibli Museum Mitaka	2h 30m

Hotel Gajoen Tokyo

Guests enjoy a 1-hour 30-minute buffet lunch at the Hotel Gajoen Tokyo. The restaurant offers a variety of Japanese and Western dishes, though vegetarian and allergy-friendly meals aren’t accepted.

Following lunch, the tour group continues their exploration of the area.

The Hotel Gajoen Tokyo features:

1. A historic, traditional Japanese design with ornate architecture and décor.
2. A renowned buffet with a wide selection of cuisine.
3. Proximity to the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.
4. An included stop on the Studio Ghibli Museum and Film Appreciation Tour.

After the lunch, the group heads to the next destination on the itinerary.

Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum

Following their buffet lunch at the Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, the tour group spends 1 hour and 15 minutes at the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.

The museum showcases historic buildings from the Edo and Meiji periods, providing a glimpse into Japan’s architectural heritage. Visitors can explore the structures and learn about their significance.

On Mondays, the tour substitutes this stop with visits to either Jindaiji Temple or Takahata Fudoson Temple.

The time spent at the open-air museum allows participants to appreciate Japan’s rich architectural history and cultural traditions.

Ghibli Museum Mitaka

The Ghibli Museum Mitaka is the highlight of the tour, where visitors spend 2 hours and 30 minutes exploring the whimsical world of Studio Ghibli. The museum’s admission is included, allowing for self-guided discovery.

Key features include:

1. Strolling through the charming streets and buildings inspired by Ghibli films.
2. Marveling at the iconic Cat Bus sculpture from "My Neighbor Totoro."
3. Visiting the permanent exhibition showcasing Ghibli’s animation techniques and production process.
4. Watching a short Ghibli film in the museum’s theater.

Guests are immersed in the studio’s imaginative and fantastical universe, leaving with a deeper appreciation for the celebrated anime.

Transportation and Guide Services

As part of the tour package, round-trip transportation is provided by an air-conditioned coach from a central meeting point in Tokyo.

A professional guide accompanies the group, providing insights and commentary during the bus ride. However, the guide doesn’t guide visitors inside the Ghibli Museum itself. Guests are left to explore the museum at their own pace after arrival.

Gratuities for the guide and driver aren’t included in the tour price. Participants should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the itinerary.

Important Notes

Participants should be aware that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as the itinerary involves walking and standing for extended periods.

Certain important information to consider:

1. Children 3 and younger can attend for free, but no seat or meal is provided.
2. The tour’s cancellation policy is non-refundable, and no refunds are given for itinerary changes or if leaving the tour midway.
3. Guests must check ingredient labels for any food allergens, as the buffet lunch can’t accommodate special dietary needs.
4. Traffic conditions may cause delays in the tour schedule.

Traveler Feedback

Many travelers have praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides who provide insights during the bus ride.

The buffet lunch and Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum were highlighted as enjoyable experiences.

Visitors described the Ghibli Museum as magical and inspiring.

However, some found the museum small and the time spent there excessive, suggesting improved time management between locations.

Traffic conditions may also cause delays in the schedule, as noted in the constructive feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photos Allowed Inside the Ghibli Museum?

Photos are not allowed inside the Ghibli Museum. Visitors must leave cameras and phones in lockers before entering the museum to preserve the experience and avoid disturbing others.

Can I Purchase Tickets for the Ghibli Museum Separately?

Yes, visitors can purchase Ghibli Museum tickets separately. However, the tour package provides admission as well as round-trip transportation, a guided experience, and additional sightseeing, making it a convenient all-inclusive option for many travelers.

Is There an English Audio Guide Available at the Museum?

The Ghibli Museum doesn’t offer an English audio guide, but visitors can rent an English-language pamphlet that provides information about the exhibits and displays. However, the self-guided tour allows guests to explore the museum at their own pace.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Into the Ghibli Museum?

No, visitors are not permitted to bring their own food and drinks into the Ghibli Museum. The museum has a café on-site where visitors can purchase refreshments, but outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the museum.

Is There a Dress Code or Specific Attire Required for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for the tour. Casual, comfortable attire is recommended as the tour involves walking and transportation. Guests should dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared for the museum’s self-guided exploration.

The Sum Up

The Tokyo Studio Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Film Appreciation Tour provides a captivating 10-hour experience that immerses visitors in the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli. Featuring a delightful buffet lunch, a visit to the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, and an extensive self-guided exploration of the Ghibli Museum, this tour is a must-visit for fans of Ghibli’s beloved films and Japan’s cultural heritage and artistry.