【Chibi Maruko-chan Land】(Shizuoka Prefecture)
Shimizu Ward in Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is the setting for the nationally beloved 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 Chibi Maruko-chan exhibition museum. This article provides a comprehensive introduction from the attractions of Chibi Maruko-chan Land to nearby pilgrimage sites.
What is Chibi Maruko-chan Land?
“Chibi Maruko-chan Land” is an interactive museum that opened in 1999 inside Esprit Dream Plaza and reopened after renovation in 2020. Positioned in Shimizu Ward, the setting of the work, it is characterized by displays that faithfully recreate the anime and manga world.
The Showa-era Shimizu townscape and lifestyle that original author Momoko Sakura actually experienced have become a valuable facility where visitors can experience the world through Maruko’s perspective. The content is rich enough to be enjoyed by both children and adults, transcending generations, offering a space where nostalgia and new discoveries can be experienced 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, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Chibi Maruko-chan whenever they visit. Landscapes seen in the anime’s opening credits and the daily lives of characters are recreated three-dimensionally, allowing visitors to experience what it’s like to step into the anime itself.
Business Hours and Admission Fee
Business Hours
Chibi Maruko-chan Land’s business hours are as follows.
- Regular business hours: 10:00～20:00 (Last admission 19:30)
Business hours may change depending on the season and events, so it is recommended to check the official website or SNS for the latest information before your visit. Particularly during year-end/New Year holidays and major holiday periods, business hours may change.
Admission Fees
Admission fees are as follows.
- Junior high school students and above (Adults): 1,000 yen
- Ages 3 to elementary school: 700 yen
- Age 2 and below: Free
Group discounts are also available; for groups of 20 or more, discounted rates apply. Additionally, visitors with a disability certificate can enter at a discounted rate. Please contact the facility directly for details.
Special tickets such as annual passes may also be sold, so if you plan to visit multiple times, check the official website.
Access
Address
Address: 3F Esprit Dream Plaza, 13-15 Irifune-cho, Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Access by Train
From JR Shimizu Station
- Approximately 10 minutes by free shuttle bus from JR Shimizu Station
- Approximately 25 minutes on foot
The free shuttle bus connects Esprit Dream Plaza and JR Shimizu Station and operates regularly. The boarding point is at the East Exit of JR Shimizu Station.
From Shizuoka Railway (Shitetsu) Shin-Shimizu Station
- Approximately 10 minutes by free shuttle bus from Shin-Shimizu Station
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot
When using Shizuoka Railway, Shin-Shimizu Station is the nearest station. The free shuttle bus from the station is convenient.
Access by Car
From the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from Shimizu IC
- Approximately 25 minutes from Shizuoka IC
From the New Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from Shin-Shimizu IC
Parking Information
Esprit Dream Plaza is equipped with a large parking lot.
- Number of parking spaces: Approximately 1,000
- 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 through shopping at Chibi Maruko-chan Land or other shops within Esprit Dream Plaza.
Highlights Inside the Museum
Chibi Maruko-chan Land is divided into three main zones, each with different attractions.
“Maruko’s Daily Life” Zone
This zone recreates Maruko’s everyday life.
Sakura House
The “Sakura House” where Maruko lives has been faithfully recreated, and visitors can view the living room, Maruko’s room, kitchen, and more. The space is filled with the atmosphere of a Showa-era home, with period-appropriate appliances and furniture arranged with attention to detail. There are plenty of nostalgic items such as low dining tables, CRT televisions, and rotary phones.
School Classroom
The elementary school classroom that Maruko attends has also been recreated. Visitors can experience the atmosphere of a Showa-era school with wooden desks and chairs, blackboards, and organs. From the classroom window, the Shimizu townscape is visible, making visitors feel as if they’ve become classmates of Maruko.
Park
The park where Maruko, Tamachan, and Hanawa-kun play has been recreated. With swings, sandboxes, and playground equipment, there are spaces where children can actually play.
“Dreams Galore” Zone
This zone allows visitors to experience the worldview of the anime’s opening credits.
Recreation of Opening Credits
The world of the famous Chibi Maruko-chan opening song “Odoru Ponpokolin” is expressed three-dimensionally. The colorful and fun space is also popular as a photo spot.
Memorial Photos with Characters
Life-size panels and figures of Maruko and other characters are displayed, allowing visitors to take commemorative photos with them. Take a memorable photo with your favorite character.
“Maruko’s Dream Amusement Park” Zone
This zone offers interactive attractions.
Interactive Exhibits
There are experience-based exhibits using digital technology that allow visitors to enjoy the world of Maruko more deeply. Quizzes, games, and other content suitable for both children and adults are available.
Limited Edition Gift Shop
Exclusive merchandise available only at Chibi Maruko-chan Land is sold here. Shimizu-exclusive souvenirs and original goods are a must-see for fans. The variety includes plush toys, stationery, and snacks.
Event Information
Chibi Maruko-chan Land hosts various events by season.
Limited-Time Events
- Birthday events: Special events are held on Maruko’s birthday (May 8) and Momoko Sakura’s birthday (May 8)
- Seasonal events: Christmas, New Year’s, summer vacation and other seasonal decorations and programs can be enjoyed
- Anniversary events: Special exhibitions and merchandise sales are held on anime broadcast commemoration days and similar occasions
How to Check Latest Information
Event information is updated regularly on the official website and SNS. In particular, the official Twitter (X) account (@maruko_land) shares the latest event information and merchandise introductions in a timely manner, so following is recommended.
Nearby Pilgrimage Sites
When visiting Chibi Maruko-chan Land, be sure to explore the nearby pilgrimage sites as well. Within Shimizu Ward, there are many places with connections to the work.
Around Shimizu Station
JR Shimizu Station
Bronze statues of Maruko and her grandfather are installed at the East Exit of Shimizu Station. They are a standard photo spot and attract many fans. Chibi Maruko-chan-related decorations are also found throughout the station, allowing visitors to feel the sacred site atmosphere from the moment of arrival.
Shimizu Ginza Shopping Street
This shopping street is believed to be the model for the street where Maruko goes shopping in the series. Walking through this shopping street with its remaining Showa-era atmosphere allows visitors to experience the work’s worldview firsthand.
Places Associated with Momoko Sakura
Irie Elementary School (Former Irie Elementary School)
The school that served as the model for the elementary school Maruko attends. While the school is now merged, the exterior of the building can be seen. The townscape around the school overlaps with many scenes from the work, making it enjoyable just to walk around.
Miho no Matsubara
A representative tourist spot in Shimizu Ward that features beautiful views of Mt. Fuji and a pine forest. The location appears in the work and is known as a place Maruko and friends visited on a school trip. It is a scenic area registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights in Esprit Dream Plaza
Esprit Dream Plaza, which houses Chibi Maruko-chan Land, has other facilities to enjoy.
Shimizu Sushi Museum
A facility where you can enjoy sushi made with fresh seafood caught at Shimizu Port. Exhibits allow visitors to learn about sushi history and culture, combining dining with education.
Observation Wheel “Dream Sky”
From this 52-meter tall observation wheel, you can enjoy panoramic views of Shimizu Port, Mt. Fuji, the Izu Peninsula, and more. On clear days, you can view the Shimizu scenery from the sky as Maruko might have seen it.
Model Course for Pilgrimage
A recommended one-day itinerary for Chibi Maruko-chan fans is introduced below.
Morning: Exploring Around Shimizu Station
- Arrival at JR Shimizu Station (9:00)
- Commemorative photo with bronze statues of Maruko and her grandfather
- Shimizu Ginza Shopping Street Exploration (9:30～10:30)
- Stroll through the shopping street with remaining Showa-era atmosphere
- Breakfast and souvenir shopping at local shops
- Around Irie Elementary School (11:00～11:30)
- Explore imagining Maruko’s school commute
Afternoon: Chibi Maruko-chan Land and Esprit Dream Plaza
- Move to Esprit Dream Plaza by free shuttle bus (12:00)
- Lunch (12:15～13:15)
- Meal at a restaurant within Esprit Dream Plaza
- Fresh sushi at Shimizu Sushi Museum is also recommended
- Chibi Maruko-chan Land Visit (13:30～15:30)
- Thoroughly explore the museum
- Enjoy photo opportunities and experience corners
- Limited edition merchandise shopping
- Observation Wheel “Dream Sky” (15:45～16:15)
- Panoramic view of Shimizu townscape
- Shopping at Esprit Dream Plaza (16:30～17:30)
- Souvenir shopping and rest
Optional Activities if Time Permits
- Miho no Matsubara: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Esprit Dream Plaza. Enjoy the spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and pine forests.
- Shimizu Port Bay Cruise: Cruise around Shimizu Port by ship to view the city from the sea.
Important Notes and Tips for Your Visit
Tips to Avoid Crowds
- Weekday mornings are relatively quiet
- During major holidays and summer vacation, crowds are expected; arriving shortly after opening is recommended
- Event days may see more crowds than usual
Photography
Photography is generally allowed throughout the museum, but some areas prohibit photography. Even in areas where photography is permitted, be considerate of other visitors. Some areas may prohibit flash photography, so be cautious.
Estimated Time Required
- For thorough viewing: 2～3 hours
- For a quick visit: 1～1.5 hours
It is recommended to allow extra time if you want to enjoy the exhibits slowly or take many photos.
Barrier-Free Information
Esprit Dream Plaza is barrier-free accessible, and wheelchair access is possible. Elevators and ramps are installed, and moving through the museum is smooth. If needed, it is recommended to contact the facility in advance.
Souvenirs and Merchandise Information
Chibi Maruko-chan Land Exclusive Merchandise
Chibi Maruko-chan Land sells numerous exclusive items available only here.
- Shimizu-exclusive design merchandise: Designs featuring local attractions and Mt. Fuji
- Original plush toys: Popular characters such as Maruko, Tamachan, and her grandfather
- Stationery and miscellaneous items: Notebooks, pens, clear files and other practical items
- Sweets: Sweets using Shizuoka tea and souvenirs in Maruko-themed packaging
Popular Souvenir Rankings
- Limited design plush toys
- Shimizu limited-edition packaging sweets
- Original tote bags
- Character mascots
- Stationery sets
Merchandise may sell out, so if you find something you like, early purchase is recommended.
Shimizu’s Food Culture and Gourmet
One of the pleasures of pilgrimage is enjoying local cuisine. Shimizu has plenty of delicious food, from fresh seafood to local specialties.
Famous Shimizu Gourmet
Sakura Shrimp
Shimizu Port boasts the highest catch volume of sakura shrimp in Japan. Visitors can enjoy fresh sakura shrimp, tempura, sakura shrimp rice bowls, and various other dishes. The season is spring and fall, with fresh sakura shrimp being a precious limited-time taste.
Tuna
Shimizu Port is famous as a base for deep-sea fishing, where fresh tuna is caught. Shimizu Sushi Museum within Esprit Dream Plaza offers fresh tuna sushi.
Shimizu Motsu Curry
A popular local Shimizu specialty, “Shimizu Motsu Curry” is curry made with pork offal, rich and satisfying.
Shizuoka Oden
Characterized by dark soup, Shizuoka oden is typically topped with aonori seaweed powder and bonito flakes. Numerous shops serving Shizuoka oden can be found around Shimizu Station.
Tourism Spots to Combine with Shimizu Sightseeing
Enjoy other Shimizu tourist spots in combination with pilgrimage to Chibi Maruko-chan sites.
Nihon-daira
A hilly area spanning Shimizu Ward and Suruga Ward in Shizuoka City, offering panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, and the Izu Peninsula. The Nihon-daira Ropeway provides access to Kunosan Tosho-gu Shrine.
Kunosan Tosho-gu Shrine
A shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, designated as a National Treasure. The magnificent architecture of the shrine halls is a must-see. Access is available via ropeway from Nihon-daira or by climbing the stone steps (1,159 steps) from the ocean side.
Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi”
Fresh fish and seafood caught at Shimizu Port can be purchased here. There are “Ichiba Hall” and “Maguro Hall,” with eating establishments fully equipped. Open early in the morning, it is popular with both locals and tourists.
Summary: 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, visitors can fully enjoy the world of the work.
The three zones within the museum feature diverse exhibitions ranging from Maruko’s daily life to the anime opening world to interactive attractions. There is a wealth of limited merchandise, and visitors are sure to find wonderful souvenirs to commemorate their visit.
Furthermore, scattered throughout Shimizu Ward are numerous pilgrimage sites with connections to the work, which can be thoroughly explored over the course of a day. The bronze statues of Maruko and her grandfather at JR Shimizu Station, Shimizu Ginza Shopping Street, and the areas around Irie Elementary School are all actual locations of the work’s setting. Walking through these pilgrimage sites allows for a deeper understanding of the work’s world.
Combining Shimizu’s delicious cuisine and tourist spots such as Miho no Matsubara and Nihon-daira will result in an enriching trip. Check the official website and SNS for the latest event information and be sure to visit Shimizu, the sacred site of Chibi Maruko-chan.
The joy of experiencing the anime world you watched as a child in an actual location will become a cherished memory transcending generations. Why not spend special time at Chibi Maruko-chan Land, filled with nostalgia and new discoveries?
