Ghibli Statue Showcase: Where Dreams Take Shape
Nestled in the quaint town of Mitaka, Japan, lies a hidden gem for fans of the beloved Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli. The Ghibli Statue Showcase is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the magical and whimsical world of Ghibli.
As you enter the showcase, you’ll be greeted by an impressive 5-meter tall bronze statue of Totoro, one of the most iconic characters from Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro. Giant replicas of Catbus and other popular figures stand tall throughout the entrance hall, setting the tone for what awaits inside.
The showcase features over 2,000 original models used in various Ghibli figures films such as Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke. These intricate models are carefully crafted by hand and showcase the incredible attention to detail that goes into making each film.
One standout exhibit is a replica of Satsuki’s house from My Neighbor Totoro. Visitors can step inside and explore every nook and cranny just like in the movie – from crawling through tight spaces to sliding down stairs on cardboard boxes.
But it’s not just about admiring these incredible works – visitors also have a chance to try their hand at creating their own stop-motion animation using clay models similar to those used by Ghibli animators.
For those looking for more interactive experiences, there are life-size sets that recreate scenes from Ponyo on Cliff by the Sea or Kiki’s Delivery Service where visitors can dress up in character costumes and take photos or even participate in mini-workshops on origami or paper cutting inspired by Hayao Miyazaki’s films.
The highlight of this showcase is undoubtedly sitting among life-size statues of beloved characters like Spirited Away’s No-Face or Howl’s Moving Castle while enjoying some refreshments at Café Dila Anima where everything is themed around Ghibli films.
Apart from its visual and interactive features, the Ghibli Statue Showcase also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the production process of creating these iconic films. Visitors can see how animators sketch out characters, design props, and create breathtaking backgrounds that bring each film to life.
The showcase is a dream come true for any Ghibli fan – a place where they can relive their favorite movies and discover new details hidden in plain sight. Each visit will only deepen one’s appreciation for the artistry behind Studio Ghibli’s creations. It truly is a place where dreams take shape.
