[Studio Ghibli] My Neighbor Totoro – Satsuki and Mei’s House (Ghibli Park) Aichi Prefecture

[Complete Guide] Ghibli Park “Satsuki and Mei’s House” – Experience the World of My Neighbor Totoro in a Retro Showa-Era Exhibition Facility (Aichi Prefecture)

What is Satsuki and Mei’s House?

“Satsuki and Mei’s House” is an exhibition facility located within the Ai-Chikyuhaku Memorial Park (Moricoro Park) in Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture. It is a faithful recreation of the Kusakabe family home featured in the Studio Ghibli masterpiece animated film “My Neighbor Totoro,” designed and built as a Japanese wooden structure from the 1950s (Showa 30s). The facility was first opened to the public during the 2005 Aichi Expo (Ai-Chikyuhaku).

As a precious space where visitors can actually walk through and experience the world depicted by director Hayao Miyazaki, it has maintained high popularity from the time of the Aichi Expo to the present day. With the opening of Ghibli Park on November 1, 2022, it made a new start as the core facility of the “Dondoko Forest” area.

Basic Information About the Facility

• Location: Ai-Chikyuhaku Memorial Park, Iwasaku Mikamine, Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture
• Opened: 2005 (during Aichi Expo)
• Incorporated into Ghibli Park: November 1, 2022
• Area: Dondoko Forest
• Architectural Style: Wooden Japanese house from the Showa 30s
• Administrator: Ghibli Park Inc. (from November 2022 onward)

History and Background Continuing from the Aichi Expo

Birth at the Ai-Chikyuhaku Expo

“Satsuki and Mei’s House” was produced as one of the main pavilions of the 2005 Aichi Expo (Ai-Chikyuhaku). At that time, it was one of the most popular pavilions among many, and reservations to enter became difficult due to the level of attention it garnered.

The theme of the Aichi Expo was “The Wisdom of Nature.” In line with this philosophy, the world of “My Neighbor Totoro” was selected as an exhibition embodying traditional Japanese living and coexistence with nature. Director Hayao Miyazaki himself was deeply involved in the production of this facility, overseeing every detail.

Continued Public Display After the Expo Closed

After the Aichi Expo closed, due to its high popularity, the decision was made not to demolish it but to continue its public display under the management of Aichi Prefecture. From 2006 onward, it continued to be made available to the general public by reservation as a permanent exhibition facility of the Ai-Chikyuhaku Memorial Park.

While many expo pavilions were dismantled with the expo’s closure, the preservation of “Satsuki and Mei’s House” speaks to the high cultural value of this facility.

Integration into Ghibli Park

When the Ghibli Park concept was announced in 2017, “Satsuki and Mei’s House,” which already existed, was positioned as central to the plan. It is said that the existence of this facility became the starting point for Ghibli Park’s construction.

On November 1, 2022, with the opening of the first phase of Ghibli Park, “Satsuki and Mei’s House” became part of the “Dondoko Forest” area and came under the management of Ghibli Park Inc.

Architectural Features and Dedication to Faithful Recreation

Complete Recreation of a Wooden House from the Showa 30s

“Satsuki and Mei’s House” is not merely a set but is built as an actual habitable dwelling. It was constructed using traditional building methods and materials from the Showa 30s era, making it structurally valuable from an architectural history perspective.

Main Architectural Features:

• Traditional Wooden Frame Construction: Traditional Japanese architecture using pillars and beams
• Earthen Walls: Traditional technique of plastering earth over woven bamboo base
• Tiled Roof: Using traditional Japanese tiles common in the Showa period
• Engawa (Veranda): An open space unique to Japanese houses
• Well: A structure from which water can actually be drawn

Faithful Embodiment of Movie Settings

Detailed setting drawings were created during film production for the Kusakabe family home depicted by director Hayao Miyazaki. “Satsuki and Mei’s House” thoroughly analyzes these setting drawings and movie scenes, bringing them to life as a three-dimensional, actual building.

Main Recreated Spaces:

• Entrance: The doorway from the opening scene where the family moves in
• Living Room: A spacious area where Satsuki and Mei play
• Kitchen: Equipped with cooking facilities from the Showa 30s
• Father’s Study: The workplace of Tatsuo Kusakabe, an archaeologist
• Second Floor Children’s Room: The bedroom of Satsuki and Mei
• Bath: A goemon-style wooden bath heated by firewood

Thorough Historical Verification of Props and Household Items

In addition to the building itself, the furniture and household goods arranged throughout the house are either actual items from the Showa 30s or recreated using period manufacturing methods.

Examples of Recreated Household Items:

• Rotary telephone (black, dial-type)
• Gramophone and SP records
• Books and magazines from the Showa 30s
• Period tableware and cooking utensils
• Wooden washboards
• Lighting fixtures such as lamps and lanterns
• Showa-era calendars and posters

These props are not merely placed but arranged to create a sense of “actually being in use.” The kitchen has vegetables placed on it, the study has a half-open book, creating an atmosphere as if the Kusakabe family has just stepped out.

The Overall Picture of the Dondoko Forest Area

Area Composition

“Dondoko Forest” is the only one of Ghibli Park’s five areas located separately from the others. It is situated in the forest on the west side of Moricoro Park, recreating the rural landscape and backstage mountain atmosphere of “My Neighbor Totoro.”

Main Facilities in Dondoko Forest:

1. Satsuki and Mei’s House (paid area)
2. Dondoko-do (rest facility at the top of the backhill)
3. Dondoko-sho (free area shop/rest station)
4. Backhill Walking Trail
5. Totoro Object

Paid and Free Areas

“Dondoko Forest” has both paid areas requiring tickets and free areas open to everyone.

Paid Areas (Ghibli Park ticket required):

• Interior viewing of Satsuki and Mei’s House
• Climbing trail to the backhill
• Dondoko-do

Free Areas:

• Dondoko-sho (shop/rest station)
• Portions of surrounding forest walking trails

The Backhill and Dondoko-do

Behind Satsuki and Mei’s House is a small hill recreating the backhill featured in the movie. Climbing wooden stairs and walking trails leads to “Dondoko-do,” a wooden gazebo-style building at the summit.

Inside Dondoko-do is a large wooden carved object of Totoro, evoking a scene from the movie. From here, you can look down on Satsuki and Mei’s House, making it a scenic spot overlooking the Showa-era countryside.

Viewing Tips and How to Enjoy

Interior Viewing Precautions (Latest 2024 Rules)

From March 2024, photography is prohibited inside “Satsuki and Mei’s House.” This is a measure to protect the facility and ensure visitor safety. Photography of the exterior and garden is permitted, but put away your camera equipment once inside the building.

Main Viewing Precautions:

• Photography prohibited inside (exterior/garden photography permitted)
• No shoes indoors (change into slippers)
• Do not touch exhibits
• No eating or drinking
• Large luggage should be placed in coin lockers
• Approximate viewing time is 30-40 minutes

Must-See Display Points

1. Totoro Soot Sprites Presentation

The “soot sprites” (makkuro kuro suke) appearing at the beginning of the movie. Small black spheres are placed in dark rooms and crevices of the house, recreating scenes from the film. Look carefully and try to find them.

2. Father’s Study

The study of Tatsuo Kusakabe, the father who is an archaeologist, features academic books and research materials from the period arranged on shelves. The desk has manuscript paper and fountain pens, and you can imagine the father engrossed in research.

3. Life in the Kitchen

The Showa 30s kitchen is arranged with a stove, sink, and cupboards. Vegetables and condiments are also placed, creating an atmosphere as if Satsuki is about to start cooking.

4. Goemon-Style Bath

One of the movie’s memorable scenes where Satsuki and Mei bathe with their father. An actual goemon-style wooden bath heated by firewood is recreated.

5. Second Floor Children’s Room

Up the steep stairs on the second floor is the bedroom of Satsuki and Mei. Futons, study desks, and toys are placed, allowing you to sense the lives of the two sisters.

Seasonal Enjoyment

“Satsuki and Mei’s House” presents different appearances throughout the four seasons.

Spring (March-May):

• Flowers planted in the garden begin to bloom
• The house surrounded by fresh greenery is beautiful
• Atmosphere closest to the early summer setting of the film

Summer (June-August):

• The forest-surrounded house in deep green
• The sound of cicadas echoing makes the movie’s world most palpable
• Shade from trees creates a cool, resort-like atmosphere

Autumn (September-November):

• The backhill is beautiful with fall foliage
• Viewing can be done in a calm atmosphere
• Display staging that captures the feeling of autumn bounty

Winter (December-February):

• Japanese house in snowy landscape (when snow falls)
• Clear air makes building details visible
• Relatively uncrowded period

Reservation Methods and Ticket Information

Types of Tickets and Pricing

After Ghibli Park opened, viewing “Satsuki and Mei’s House” requires a Ghibli Park “Dondoko Forest Area” ticket.

Ticket Pricing (as of 2024):

• Adults: ¥1,000 on weekdays, ¥1,000 on weekends/holidays
• Children (ages 4 through elementary school): ¥500 on weekdays, ¥500 on weekends/holidays

※Prices may change. Please check the official website for the latest information.

Reservation Methods

Ghibli Park tickets are completely reservation-based. You can reserve through the following methods:

1. Official Ticket Website (Boo-Woo Tickets)

The most common reservation method. Tickets for two months ahead go on sale every 10th of the month.

• Sales Start: Every 10th at 2:00 PM
• Sale Target: Two months ahead (example: June tickets sold on April 10th)
• Access: Through the Ghibli Park official website

2. Lawson Tickets

Can be purchased through Loppi terminals or the website.

3. Travel Agency Tour Packages

Tour products bundling transportation and tickets are also available.

Reservation Tips and Notes

• Early reservation essential: Especially for weekends/holidays, may sell out right after release
• Weekdays recommended: Relatively easier to reserve and allows leisurely viewing
• Cancellation waiting list: Cancellation slots may be resold on the official website
• Multiple area tickets: More efficient to purchase bundled with other areas

Access Methods

Access by Train and Bus

From Nagoya:

1. Get off at Fujiigaoka Station on the Nagoya Municipal Subway Higashiyama Line
2. Transfer to the Aichi Loop Line (Linimo)
3. Get off at Ai-Chikyuhaku Memorial Park Station (approximately 13 minutes)
4. Walk approximately 15-20 minutes from the station to the Dondoko Forest area

From Toyota:

• Meitetsu Bus “Ai-Chikyuhaku Memorial Park” bound service available

Access by Car

From Nagoya:

• Approximately 5 minutes from “Nagakute IC” on the Nagoya Second Ring Expressway

From Toyota:

• Approximately 20 minutes from “Nagoya IC” on the Tomei Expressway

Parking Information:

• Multiple parking lots at Ai-Chikyuhaku Memorial Park
• Fee: ¥500 per day for regular vehicles
• Early arrival recommended as holidays are crowded
• North parking lot is closest to “Dondoko Forest”

Movement Within the Park

The Ai-Chikyuhaku Memorial Park spans vast grounds, so it takes 15-20 minutes on foot from the station or parking lot to “Dondoko Forest.”

• Park shuttle bus: Paid shuttle service operates (may only run weekends/holidays)
• Walking: Enjoying the walk is also recommended
• Time required: Plan with ample time to spare

Nearby Attractions and Dining

Other Ghibli Park Areas

When visiting “Dondoko Forest,” also visit other Ghibli Park areas.

Ghibli’s Warehouse:

• Large indoor exhibition facility
• Displays of Castle in the Sky, Spirited Away, and many other works
• Well-stocked cafes and shops

Hill of Youth:

• The world of “Whisper of the Heart” and “The Cat Returns”
• The Antique Shop “Cuckoo’s Nest”

Mononoke’s Village (opened November 2023):

• Recreation of the tatara forge from “Princess Mononoke”
• Rich experiential exhibits

Witch Valley (opened March 2024):

• The world of “Howl’s Moving Castle” and “Kiki’s Delivery Service”
• Latest area

Facilities Within Moricoro Park

Ai-Chikyuhaku Memorial Museum:

• Commemorative exhibits of the Aichi Expo
• Free admission

Ice Skating Rink:

• Year-round skating facility

Cycling Course:

• Cycling route around the park
• Bike rentals available

Nearby Dining Spots

Within the Park:

• Dondoko-sho: Light food and drink sales
• Ghibli’s Warehouse Cafe: Menu themed around Ghibli works

Within Nagakute City:

• Aeon Mall Nagakute: Diverse dining options
• Local Japanese restaurants: Can also enjoy Nagoya-style cuisine

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How much time does visiting Satsuki and Mei’s House take?

A: Interior viewing takes approximately 30-40 minutes, and including Dondoko-do on the backhill takes about an hour. Including photo opportunities (exterior only) and surrounding area exploration, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Q2: Can families with children enjoy it?

A: Yes, families with children can certainly enjoy it. However, the stairs inside the house are steep, and the ascent to the second floor requires caution. Young children should be supported carefully by their guardians. The backhill walking trails are well-maintained, but sturdy walking shoes are recommended.

Q3: Can you visit on rainy days?

A: Yes, viewing is possible. While Satsuki and Mei’s House is an indoor facility, you walk outdoors to move around the area, so rain gear is recommended. A Japanese house on a rainy day also has its own charm and offers different appeal.

Q4: Is visiting with a wheelchair or stroller possible?

A: While walking trails in the area are accessible by wheelchair and stroller, the interior of Satsuki and Mei’s House has many steps and is difficult to view by wheelchair. Strollers must be left at the entrance. We recommend consulting with staff beforehand.

Q5: Are same-day tickets available?

A: Ghibli Park is basically reservation-based. Same-day tickets are only sold in limited quantities if there is availability in reserved slots. Advance reservation is essential to ensure entry.

Q6: Can I bring pets?

A: Except for guide dogs and service dogs, pets cannot be brought inside.

Q7: Is re-entry possible?

A: Re-entry with area tickets is basically not possible. Once you exit, you cannot re-enter, so plan your viewing accordingly.

Q8: Can I purchase souvenirs?

A: “My Neighbor Totoro” related goods and souvenirs can be purchased at Dondoko-sho (free area). Additionally, shops within Ghibli’s Warehouse offer a wider selection of Ghibli merchandise.

Summary: Experience Showa Living and the Movie’s World at Satsuki and Mei’s House

“Satsuki and Mei’s House” goes beyond being merely a recreation facility for anime, serving as a valuable cultural institution conveying Japan’s traditional architecture and lifestyle culture. The world of “My Neighbor Totoro” as depicted by director Hayao Miyazaki is the very embodiment of Japan’s original landscape from the Showa 30s, and as a place where visitors can experience daily life from that era, it is a space that can be enjoyed by everyone from adults to children.

From the Aichi Expo approximately 20 years ago, and continuing to the present after Ghibli Park’s opening, this facility has been continuously loved by many people. Each visit offers new discoveries, and it is a place where you want to return again and again, brimming with charm.

When visiting Ghibli Park, be sure to take time to carefully view Satsuki and Mei’s House in the “Dondoko Forest” area. You will experience the emotion of seeing the world from the movie spread out before your eyes. Make your reservations early, plan with plenty of time to spare, and fully enjoy the world of Totoro.