One of Japan’s most distinctive attractions, Ghibli Park celebrates the beloved characters and stories of the world-renowned Studio Ghibli. Unlike traditional theme parks, it doesn’t feature any rides. Instead, it recreates iconic scenes and settings from the studio’s anime, fulfilling fans’ dreams of stepping into the films’ richly imagined worlds in real life.
While the park normally closes at 5pm, on three consecutive Saturdays this summer (August 2, 9 and 16), it will extend its opening hours until 8pm. This marks the first time Ghibli Park will remain open past sundown, and we’re sure the illuminated night setting will make the grounds look even more magical.
Although Ghibli Park is made up of five zones, only three will be included in this after-hours special. Fortunately, these are the park’s most popular areas: Mononoke Village (inspired by Princess Mononoke), Valley of Witches (featuring settings from Howl’s Moving Castle, Kiki’s Delivery Service and Earwig and the Witch), and Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse (a sprawling museum of sorts dedicated to the studio’s greatest hits).
Admission tickets for August, including access to the evening sessions, will go on sale at 2pm on Tuesday June 10. On those three special days, Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse will offer additional entry slots at 4pm and 5pm. Take your time and wander, but don’t miss the 7.30pm last entry for the Valley of Witches and Mononoke Village.
Ghibli Park’s inaugural evening special is part of Aichi Expo 20 Celebrations’s Night Fantasy festival, which runs on weekends and public holidays from August 2 to 17. During this time, the Aichi Expo Memorial Park – which Ghibli Park calls home – will come alive with summer festivities including Bon Odori, drone shows and more. So once you’re done exploring the fantastical world of Ghibli, ease yourself back to reality with the more earthy fun at the memorial park.
For more information, check the Ghibli Park website.
More from Time Out Tokyo
3 best temples in Kamakura to see hydrangeas this summer
Castle fans in Japan recommend the top 20 castles tourists should visit
Tokyo gov't to waive base water fees this summer
Hello Kitty land in Tokyo will be overrun by zombies this summer
Netflix Japan to air ‘Grave of the Fireflies’ from July 15
Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates from Tokyo and Japan.