【Chibi Maruko-chan Land】 Shizuoka Prefecture

Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture is the setting for the national anime “Chibi Maruko-chan” and the hometown of original author Momoko Sakura. “Chibi Maruko-chan Land” located in Shimizu Ward has become a sacred site for fans as Japan’s only permanent exhibition museum dedicated to Chibi Maruko-chan. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to the attractions of Chibi Maruko-chan Land and pilgrimage spots in the surrounding area.

What is Chibi Maruko-chan Land?

“Chibi Maruko-chan Land” is an experiential museum that opened in 1999 inside Espals Dream Plaza and underwent renovation to reopen in 2020. Located in Shimizu Ward, the setting of the work, it features displays that faithfully recreate the anime and manga world.

The Showa-era Shimizu townscape and lifestyle that original author Momoko Sakura actually experienced can be explored from Maruko’s perspective, making it a valuable facility. From children to adults, the content is enriched to be enjoyable across generations, offering a space where you can experience both nostalgia and new discoveries simultaneously.

Japan’s Only Permanent Exhibition Museum

Chibi Maruko-chan Land is the only permanent exhibition facility of its kind in all of Japan. Unlike limited-time event exhibitions, you can immerse yourself in the world of Chibi Maruko-chan whenever you visit. The landscapes seen in the anime’s opening video and the daily lives of the characters are recreated in three-dimensional form, allowing you to experience what it’s like to step into the anime world itself.

Business Hours and Admission Fees

Business Hours

The business hours for Chibi Maruko-chan Land are as follows:

Regular business hours: 10:00～20:00 (Last admission 19:30)

Please note that business hours may change depending on the season or events. We recommend confirming the latest information on the official website or SNS before your visit. Particularly during year-end and New Year periods or major holidays, business hours may be modified.

Admission Fees

Admission fees are as follows:

Middle school students and above (Adults): 1,000 yen
Ages 3 to elementary school: 700 yen
Ages 2 and below: Free

Group discounts are also available. For groups of 20 or more, discounted rates apply. Those with disability certificates can also enter at discounted rates. For details, please contact the facility directly.

Special tickets such as annual passes may also be sold, so if you plan to visit multiple times, check the official website.

How to Access

Location

Address: 3rd Floor, Espals Dream Plaza, 13-15 Irifunecho, Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture

Access by Train

From JR Shimizu Station

Approximately 10 minutes by free shuttle bus to Espals Dream Plaza
Approximately 25 minutes on foot

The free shuttle bus connects Espals Dream Plaza and JR Shimizu Station and operates regularly. The boarding point is at the east exit of JR Shimizu Station.

From Shizuoka Railway (Shizutetsu) Shin-Shimizu Station

Approximately 10 minutes by free shuttle bus from Shin-Shimizu Station
Approximately 20 minutes on foot

If using Shizuoka Railway, Shin-Shimizu Station is the nearest station. The free shuttle bus is convenient from the station.

Access by Car

From Tomei Expressway

Approximately 10 minutes from Shimizu IC
Approximately 25 minutes from Shizuoka IC

From Shin-Tomei Expressway

Approximately 15 minutes from Shin-Shimizu IC

Parking Information

Espals Dream Plaza is equipped with a large parking lot.

Parking spaces: Approximately 1,000 spaces
Parking fee: Free for the first 2 hours, then 100 yen for every 30 minutes thereafter
Operating hours: 9:00～23:00

Extended parking time services may be available with purchases at Chibi Maruko-chan Land and other stores within Espals Dream Plaza.

Main Attractions Inside the Museum

Chibi Maruko-chan Land is divided into three main zones, each with distinct attractions.

“Maruko’s Daily Life” Zone

This zone recreates Maruko’s everyday life.

The Sakura Family Home

The “Sakura family home” where Maruko lives is faithfully recreated, allowing you to view the living room, Maruko’s room, kitchen, and more. The space is filled with the atmosphere of a Showa-era household, with period appliances and furniture arranged throughout, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail. There are plenty of nostalgic items such as low tables, tube televisions, and rotary phones.

School Classroom

The classroom of the elementary school Maruko attends has also been recreated. You can experience the atmosphere of a Showa-era school with wooden desks and chairs, blackboards, and organs. From the classroom windows, you can see the Shimizu townscape, making you feel as if you’ve become a true classmate of Maruko.

Park

The park where Maruko, Tamachan, and Hanawakun play has been recreated. There are swings, sandboxes, and playground equipment, with spaces where children can actually play.

“Dreams Galore” Zone

A zone where you can experience the worldview of the anime’s opening video.

Recreation of Opening Video

The world of the opening song “Odoru Ponpokolin” that everyone knows is expressed in three-dimensional form. The colorful and fun space is popular as a photo spot.

Character Commemorative Photos

Life-size panels and figurines of Maruko and other characters are displayed, and you can take commemorative photos with them. Capture a memorable photo with your favorite character.

“Maruko’s Dream Amusement Park” Zone

A zone where you can enjoy experiential attractions.

Interactive Displays

There are experiential exhibits using digital technology that allow you to enjoy the Maruko world even more deeply. Quizzes, games, and other content are available for both children and adults to enjoy.

Limited Merchandise Shop

Limited merchandise available only at Chibi Maruko-chan Land is sold. Limited edition souvenirs and original goods from Shimizu are must-sees for fans. There is a wide variety including plushies, stationery, and snacks.

Event Information

Chibi Maruko-chan Land hosts various events each season.

Limited-Time Events

Birthday Events: Special events are held on Maruko’s birthday (May 8th) and Momoko Sakura’s birthday (May 8th)
Seasonal Events: You can enjoy seasonal decorations and special events for Christmas, New Year’s, summer break, and other occasions
Anniversary Events: On anime broadcast anniversary dates and other occasions, special exhibitions and merchandise sales are held

How to Check the Latest Information

Event information is updated regularly on the official website and SNS. The official Twitter (X) account (@maruko_land) in particular provides timely information about latest events and merchandise introductions, so following it is recommended.

Pilgrimage Spots in the Surrounding Area

When you visit Chibi Maruko-chan Land, be sure to tour the pilgrimage spots in the surrounding area. Within Shimizu Ward, there are many places with connections to the work.

Around Shimizu Station

JR Shimizu Station

Bronze statues of Maruko and Grandpa are installed at the east exit of Shimizu Station. It’s a popular commemorative photo spot visited by many fans. There are also Chibi Maruko-chan-related decorations throughout the station, allowing you to feel the sacred site atmosphere from the moment of arrival.

Shimizu Ginza Shopping Street

This is considered to be the model for the shopping street featured in scenes where Maruko goes shopping. Walking through this shopping street, which retains the Showa-era atmosphere, allows you to feel the work’s worldview firsthand.

Places Associated with Momoko Sakura

Irie Elementary School (Former Irie Elementary School)

The model for the elementary school Maruko attends. While the school has since merged, you can view the exterior of the building. The townscape around the school overlaps significantly with scenes from the work, and it’s enjoyable to explore the area.

Miho no Matsubara

A major tourist spot representing Shimizu Ward, offering beautiful views of Mt. Fuji and pine groves. It appears in the work and is known as the place Maruko and the others visited on an excursion. It is also registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

Attractions Within Espals Dream Plaza

Espals Dream Plaza, which houses Chibi Maruko-chan Land, has other facilities to enjoy.

Shimizu Sushi Museum

A facility where you can enjoy fresh sushi made from fish and shellfish caught at Shimizu Port. Exhibits allow you to learn about the history and culture of sushi, combining dining with education.

Observation Wheel “Dream Sky”

From this 52-meter-high observation wheel, you can see a panoramic view of Shimizu Port, Mt. Fuji, the Izu Peninsula, and other spectacular scenery. On clear days, you can view the Shimizu landscape from above as Maruko saw it.

Sample Pilgrimage Course

Here is a recommended one-day itinerary for Chibi Maruko-chan fans.

Morning: Exploring Around Shimizu Station

Arrival at JR Shimizu Station (9:00)

Commemorative photo with the bronze statues of Maruko and Grandpa

Shimizu Ginza Shopping Street Tour (9:30～10:30)

Explore the shopping street retaining Showa-era atmosphere
Enjoy breakfast or look for souvenirs at local shops

Around Irie Elementary School (11:00～11:30)

Take a stroll imagining Maruko’s school route

Afternoon: Chibi Maruko-chan Land and Espals Dream Plaza

Transfer to Espals Dream Plaza by free shuttle bus (12:00)

Lunch (12:15～13:15)

Dine at a restaurant within Espals Dream Plaza
Fresh sushi at Shimizu Sushi Museum is also recommended

Chibi Maruko-chan Land Visit (13:30～15:30)

Thoroughly explore the museum interior
Enjoy photo opportunities and experiential corners
Shop for limited merchandise

Observation Wheel “Dream Sky” (15:45～16:15)

Panoramic view of the Shimizu townscape

Shopping at Espals Dream Plaza (16:30～17:30)

Look for souvenirs or take a break

Optional Activities if Time Permits

Miho no Matsubara: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Espals Dream Plaza. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of Mt. Fuji and pine groves.
Shimizu Port Bay Cruise: Take a boat tour around Shimizu Port and view the city from the sea.

Important Notes and Points for Your Visit

Tips for Avoiding Crowds

Weekday mornings are relatively quiet
Major holidays and summer vacation periods expect crowds, so visiting right after opening is recommended
Event dates may have higher-than-usual crowds

Photography

Photography is generally permitted throughout the facility, though some areas prohibit photography. Even in permitted areas, be considerate of other visitors. Some locations prohibit flash photography, so caution is necessary.

Estimated Time Required

For thorough viewing: 2～3 hours
For a quick tour: 1～1.5 hours

Those wishing to enjoy the exhibits leisurely or take many photos are recommended to visit with time to spare.

Barrier-Free Information

Espals Dream Plaza is barrier-free accessible, and visits by wheelchair are possible. Elevators and ramps are installed, making movement within the museum smooth. If needed, it is recommended to contact the facility in advance.

Souvenirs and Merchandise Information

Chibi Maruko-chan Land Limited Merchandise

Chibi Maruko-chan Land sells numerous limited merchandise available only here.

Shimizu limited design merchandise: Designs featuring Shimizu attractions and Mt. Fuji
Original plushies: Popular characters including Maruko, Tamachan, and Grandpa
Stationery and novelties: Notebooks, pens, clear files, and other practical items
Confections: Treats made with Shizuoka tea and souvenir candy in Maruko packaging

Popular Souvenir Rankings

Limited design plushies
Shimizu limited packaging candy
Original tote bags
Character mascots
Stationery sets

Merchandise can sell out quickly, especially popular items, so early purchase is recommended if you find something you like.

Shimizu’s Food Culture and Gourmet

One of the pleasures of pilgrimage is enjoying local cuisine. Shimizu has plenty of delicious food, starting with fresh seafood.

Shimizu’s Local Delicacies

Sakura Shrimp

Shimizu Port boasts Japan’s highest catch of sakura shrimp. You can enjoy them in various dishes including raw sakura shrimp, tempura, and shrimp rice bowls. The season is spring and fall, with raw sakura shrimp being a precious limited-time taste.

Tuna

Shimizu Port is also famous as a base for deep-sea fishing, with fresh tuna landed regularly. At Shimizu Sushi Museum within Espals Dream Plaza, you can enjoy fresh tuna sushi.

Shimizu Motsu Curry

A popular local gourmet at Shimizu, “Shimizu Motsu Curry” is made with pork offal. It has deep flavor and is very filling.

Shizuoka Oden

Shizuoka oden is characterized by its dark broth. It is traditionally topped with nori seaweed and dried fish flakes. Many shops around Shimizu Station serve Shizuoka oden.

Tourist Spots to Combine with Shimizu Sightseeing

Enjoy other Shimizu tourist spots along with Chibi Maruko-chan pilgrimage.

Nihondaira

A hilly area spanning Shimizu Ward and Suruga Ward, offering panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, and the Izu Peninsula. The Nihondaira Ropeway also provides access to Kunozan Toshogu Shrine.

Kunozan Toshogu Shrine

A shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, designated as a National Treasure. The magnificent and ornate shrine buildings are a must-see. You can access it via ropeway from Nihondaira or climb the sea-side stone steps (1,159 steps) for worship.

Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi”

A market where fresh fish and shellfish caught at Shimizu Port can be purchased. It has “Ichiba-kan” and “Maguro-kan” facilities, with restaurants also well-stocked. Open early and popular with both locals and tourists.

Conclusion: Fully Enjoy Shimizu, the Sacred Site of Chibi Maruko-chan

Chibi Maruko-chan Land is a special place for fans as Japan’s only permanent museum. In Shimizu Ward, the hometown of original author Momoko Sakura, you can fully enjoy the work’s worldview.

The three zones inside the museum feature diverse exhibits from Maruko’s daily life to the opening video world and experiential attractions. Merchandise is well-stocked, and you’re sure to find wonderful souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

Additionally, pilgrimage spots connected to the work are scattered throughout Shimizu Ward, allowing you to visit them over the course of a day. Bronze statues of Maruko and Grandpa at JR Shimizu Station, Shimizu Ginza Shopping Street, and the area around Irie Elementary School—actually walking through the work’s setting allows you to understand the work’s world more deeply.

When combined with Shimizu’s delicious local cuisine and tourist spots such as Miho no Matsubara and Nihondaira, your trip is sure to be fulfilling. Check the official website and SNS for the latest event information, and definitely visit Shimizu, the sacred site of Chibi Maruko-chan.

The joy of experiencing the anime world you watched in childhood as an actual place will remain a treasured memory that transcends generations. Wouldn’t you like to spend this special time at Chibi Maruko-chan Land, filled with nostalgia and new discoveries?