Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece animated film “Kiki’s Delivery Service.” The beautiful port town “Koriko” where the protagonist Kiki arrives for her training was modeled after “Gamla Stan,” the old town in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden.
This article provides a detailed explanation, including the charm of Gamla Stan that Kiki’s Delivery Service fans will want to visit at least once, pilgrimage spots, and actual visiting methods, incorporating local information.
The Relationship Between Kiki’s Delivery Service and Stockholm’s Gamla Stan
The Ancient Nordic Capital Visited by Director Hayao Miyazaki
When producing “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” released in 1989, Director Hayao Miyazaki and the production staff actually visited Stockholm, Sweden. In particular, the medieval cobblestone streets of the Gamla Stan district, colorful buildings, and harbor scenery are said to have been important sources of inspiration for the film’s stage, “the city of Koriko.”
What is Gamla Stan
Gamla Stan, meaning “old town” in Swedish, is a historic district that has continued since the 13th century as the birthplace of Stockholm. Centered on Stadsholmen Island, this area still retains the medieval cityscape almost entirely, and is known as one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.
Despite its small area of approximately 0.9 square kilometers, it features cobblestone alleys, buildings painted in vibrant colors such as orange, yellow, and red, squares, and churches—a landscape that vividly evokes the “city of Koriko” from the film.
Landscapes That Capture the World of Kiki’s Delivery Service
Points in Common with the Film
Walking through Gamla Stan, you encounter numerous scenes that bring back the film “Kiki’s Delivery Service.”
1. Colorful Buildings
The most distinctive feature of Koriko in the film is its bright and vivid colored buildings. The buildings in Gamla Stan are also painted in warm colors such as orange, yellow, red, and pink, creating a bright and warm atmosphere even under the overcast Nordic sky.
Particularly around Stortorget Square and along Västerlånggatan, the main street, buildings reminiscent of scenes from the film line the streets.
2. Narrow Cobblestone Alleys
The greatest charm of Gamla Stan is its maze-like narrow cobblestone alleys (called “gränd” in Swedish). These alleys, retaining the medieval character, bring to mind the streets of Koriko where Kiki flew around on her broomstick.
The narrowest alley, “Mårten Trotzigs gränd,” is only 90 centimeters wide, narrow enough to touch the walls with both arms outstretched. Such alleys crisscross throughout the town.
3. Harbor and Waterfront Scenery
The harbor scenery that left an impression in the scene where Kiki first arrives in Koriko. Since Gamla Stan is located on an island, water access is available from anywhere, offering harbor, ship, and water-reflected cityscape views that overlap with the film.
In particular, the view from near Riddarholmen Church and the sight of the City Hall from the east side of Gamla Stan showcase the beauty unique to a Nordic port town.
4. Clock Tower and Church
The cityscape with the clock tower that appears in the film can also be seen in Gamla Stan. The spires of Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan) and Riddarholmen Church symbolize a medieval European city, overlapping with the film’s world.
Major Tourist Attractions in Gamla Stan
Stortorget Square
The most famous square, located at the center of Gamla Stan. Surrounded by colorful buildings, this square is visited by many tourists as a symbolic view of Gamla Stan.
The buildings surrounding the square were built from the 17th to 18th centuries, and particularly the red, orange, and yellow buildings on the east side are popular as photo spots. In winter, a Christmas market opens, making it the busiest time of the year.
Nobel Museum
On the north side of Stortorget Square is the Nobel Museum, which displays information about the Nobel Prize and its recipients. This facility allows you to learn about the history of the Nobel Prize and the achievements of past recipients. At the attached café, you can taste the ice cream actually served at the Nobel Prize banquet.
Västerlånggatan Street
The main street of Gamla Stan, a cobblestone street running north and south. Both sides are lined with souvenir shops, cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, bustling with tourists.
Retaining a medieval atmosphere while maintaining the vibrancy of a shopping district, it evokes scenes of Kiki’s delivery rounds through a shopping area. The fun of exploring Gamla Stan includes walking the street and wandering into alleys.
Royal Palace of Stockholm (Kungliga Slottet)
Located in the northeastern part of Gamla Stan, this is the working royal palace currently used for official events of the Swedish royal family. This palace with over 600 rooms is one of Europe’s largest royal palaces.
The interior of the palace is partially open as a museum, where you can view royal treasures, the armory, and the residences of past monarchs. The changing of the guard ceremony held daily is a highlight of tourism.
Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan)
The oldest church in Stockholm, built in the 13th century, with the formal name St. Nicholas Church. While the exterior is relatively simple, the interior features lavish Baroque decorations.
Particularly famous is the 15th-century wooden sculpture “St. George and the Dragon,” known as a masterpiece of medieval art. It is also a prestigious church where royal weddings and coronation ceremonies are held.
Riddarholmen Church (Riddarholmskyrkan)
A Gothic-style church located on Riddarholmen Island west of Gamla Stan. Built in the 13th century, it underwent expansion and reconstruction over many subsequent centuries.
Currently not functioning as a church, it serves as the burial place of successive Swedish monarchs. The cast iron spire is an important element characterizing Stockholm’s skyline.
From the waterside near the church, you can overlook City Hall and Stockholm’s cityscape, making it an excellent photo spot.
Mårten Trotzigs gränd
Known as Stockholm’s narrowest alley, the narrowest section is only 90 centimeters wide. This alley connecting Västerlånggatan and Prästgatan includes 36 steps and is a steep narrow path.
The name is derived from a German merchant, Mårten Trotzig, who lived nearby in the 17th century. While not well-known among tourists, it is one of the places where you can most vividly feel Gamla Stan’s medieval atmosphere.
Photography Spots Recommended for Kiki’s Delivery Service Fans
1. East Side of Stortorget Square
As mentioned earlier, this location with colorful buildings best recreates the atmosphere of Koriko. Early morning or evening hours with soft light are particularly recommended.
2. View from Tyska Brinken
A slope descending south from Stortorget Square, where the cobblestone slope and buildings on both sides create a landscape that is exactly like the film itself.
3. Prästgatan Street
A quiet street running parallel one block west of Västerlånggatan. With relatively fewer tourists, you can slowly savor the medieval atmosphere. The combination of colorful buildings and cobblestones is beautiful.
4. Waterside View from Riddarholmen
From the waterside near Riddarholmen Church, you can see Stockholm City Hall and the cityscape across the water. It is an excellent spot to feel the atmosphere of Koriko as a port town.
5. Kakbrinken Stairs
Among Gamla Stan’s many staircases, these are particularly picturesque. The stone stairs and old buildings on both sides evoke the atmosphere of an ancient European city.
How to Access Gamla Stan
Access from Stockholm City Center
Subway (Tunnelbana)
The most convenient access method is by subway. Get off at Gamla Stan station and you’ll arrive right at the entrance to the old town. From Stockholm Central Station it’s 2 stations away, taking about 5 minutes.
The Green Line (Gröna linjen) and Red Line (Röda linjen) stop here.
On Foot
It is also possible to walk from Stockholm Central Station, taking about 15-20 minutes. The route crossing Riddarholmsbron Bridge into Gamla Stan is scenic and recommended.
Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the Gamla Stan area from various locations in the city. Buses 2, 55, and 76 are particularly convenient.
Access from Arlanda Airport
From Stockholm Arlanda Airport, you can access the area by the following methods:
Arlanda Express
A high-speed train connecting the airport and Stockholm Central Station, taking about 20 minutes. From Central Station, access Gamla Stan by subway or on foot. The fare is about 300 kronor (approximately 4,500 yen) one way—expensive but the fastest and most comfortable option.
Airport Bus (Flygbussarna)
Takes about 45 minutes to Central Station, with a one-way fare of about 120 kronor (approximately 1,800 yen), more economical than the Express.
Commuter Train (Pendeltåg)
The most economical method, taking about 40 minutes from the airport to Central Station, at standard public transportation rates (about 50 kronor).
Best Season and Time Required for Gamla Stan Sightseeing
Charms by Season
Spring (April-May)
Days grow longer and temperatures rise, making it a comfortable season. Tourist numbers haven’t yet peaked in summer, allowing for leisurely exploration.
Summer (June-August)
The busiest tourist season, but with extremely long daylight hours (in June it remains bright until around 11 PM), and café terraces are well-equipped. Temperatures are pleasantly around 20-25 degrees Celsius.
This season is ideal for experiencing the bright and fresh atmosphere of Kiki’s Delivery Service.
Autumn (September-October)
Fall foliage is beautiful and there are fewer tourists than in summer. Temperatures around 10-15 degrees are slightly cool, but exploration amid autumn’s soft light is exceptional.
Winter (November-March)
Daylight hours are short (by December it darkens around 3 PM) and temperatures often drop below freezing, but snow-covered Gamla Stan is magical. Especially during the December Christmas market season, the town illuminated with lights is beautiful and bustling with tourists.
Time Required for Sightseeing
If just exploring Gamla Stan, 2-3 hours is enough to visit the main sites. However, if you want to thoroughly explore the alleys, visit museums, and relax at cafés, you should allocate half a day to a full day.
Especially for “pilgrimage” experiences savoring Kiki’s Delivery Service’s world, including time for photography and atmosphere, a minimum of half a day is recommended.
Recommended Food and Cafés Around Gamla Stan
1. Café Schweizer
A café overlooking Stortorget Square where you can enjoy coffee and cake while viewing the square. The traditional Swedish cinnamon roll “kanelbulla” is outstanding.
2. Chokladkoppen
A small café right near Stortorget Square, popular with locals. Hot chocolate and cake are recommended. The shop is cramped but has a warm atmosphere.
3. Tradition
A restaurant serving traditional Swedish cuisine where you can taste typical Swedish dishes like meatballs and pickled herring. While tourist-oriented, the atmosphere is good and becomes a memorable part of your Gamla Stan visit.
4. Sundbergs Konditori
An established café founded in 1785, one of Stockholm’s oldest cafés. You can enjoy traditional Swedish pastries and cakes. The historic interior is also worth seeing.
5. Fem Små Hus
A luxury restaurant whose name means “Five Small Houses,” utilizing a 17th-century building. Swedish cuisine modernly reinterpreted is highly regarded. Recommended for those wanting to enjoy a special meal.
Souvenir Hunting in Gamla Stan
Moomin Shop
Though Moomins originated in neighboring Finland, Gamla Stan has an official Moomin Shop. It’s perfect for finding Nordic crafts and Moomin goods.
Swedish Craft Shops
You can find typically Swedish souvenirs like Dala Horse (Dålahäst), textiles, pottery, and more.
Antique Shops
Small antique shops are scattered throughout Gamla Stan where you might discover vintage dishes, crafts, posters, and other treasures.
Other Model Locations for Kiki’s Delivery Service
The city of Koriko in Kiki’s Delivery Service was not solely modeled after Gamla Stan. Inspiration was drawn from multiple cities.
Visby on Gotland Island (Sweden)
The medieval city of Visby on Gotland Island in the Baltic Sea is another important model location. The cityscape enclosed by walls and stone buildings greatly contributed to creating Koriko’s atmosphere.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic, a walled city, is also said to have influenced the film’s world. Particularly the port town landscape and red-roofed cityscape are said to have partially modeled Koriko.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s hilly streets and the streetcars running through it are also said to have been referenced.
However, among all these, Gamla Stan is the place that most comprehensively embodies the film’s world, with its colorful buildings, cobblestone alleys, and port town atmosphere, making it a pilgrimage site visited by many Ghibli fans.
Notes and Advice for Gamla Stan Sightseeing
Wear Shoes Suited for Cobblestone Alleys
Gamla Stan is entirely cobblestone with many uneven spots, slopes, and stairs. Comfortable sneakers and other foot-friendly shoes are strongly recommended.
Beware of Pickpockets
As a tourist destination, pickpocket thefts have unfortunately been reported. Distribute valuables among multiple locations and wear backpacks in front—practice basic crime prevention.
Pay Attention to Business Hours
Many shops and restaurants have shortened hours or are closed on Sundays and holidays. If there’s a place you particularly want to visit, check business hours beforehand.
Early Morning is Recommended to Avoid Summer Crowds
During peak summer season, daytime is quite crowded with tourists. For a quieter experience, early morning exploration (up to around 8 AM) is recommended. Gamla Stan in the soft morning light is exceptionally beautiful.
Prepare for Winter Cold
Winter Stockholm is extremely cold, especially windy near water. Layered clothing, wind-resistant jackets, hats, and gloves require thorough preparation.
Photography Considerations
Photography in alleys and squares is generally free, but discretion is needed when photographing shop interiors or house windows. Also, be mindful not to obstruct other tourists during busy times.
Nearby Attractions to Visit with Gamla Stan
Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset)
Located just across a bridge from Gamla Stan, this city hall is famous for hosting the Nobel Prize banquet. Climbing the 106-meter tower offers stunning panoramic views of Stockholm and Gamla Stan.
Djurgården Island
The cultural and leisure center of Stockholm where numerous facilities cluster, including the Vasa Museum, Skansen Open-Air Museum, and ABBA Museum. Access from Gamla Stan is by ferry or bus.
Södermalm District
Located south of Gamla Stan, this trendy area features fashionable cafés, vintage shops, and design stores. The SoFo (South of Folkungagatan) area is particularly popular with young people.
National Museum (Nationalmuseum)
The National Museum, which reopened in 2018, is Sweden’s largest art museum, housing works by Rembrandt, Renoir, and Gauguin.
Accommodation in Gamla Stan
Staying within or near Gamla Stan allows you to explore during quiet early and late hours, allowing you to immerse yourself more deeply in Kiki’s Delivery Service’s world.
Recommended Hotels
Lady Hamilton Hotel
A historic boutique hotel within Gamla Stan utilizing a 17th-century building. Guest rooms are decorated with antique furniture, allowing you to enjoy a medieval atmosphere.
Scandic Gamla Stan
A modern hotel near the entrance to Gamla Stan, recommended for those seeking comfort and convenience. The rooftop views are also excellent.
Victory Hotel
A luxury boutique hotel within Gamla Stan with marine-themed interior design. Each room features different designs for a special stay.
Stockholm Pass Utilization
If you plan to visit multiple attractions, consider purchasing a Stockholm Pass.
This pass includes:
- Free admission to 60+ attractions (Royal Palace, Vasa Museum, City Hall tower, etc.)
- Sightseeing bus tours
- Some sightseeing boats
- Guidebook
Choose from 24-hour, 48-hour, 72-hour, or 120-hour validity periods, with varying costs depending on duration. If you plan to visit many sites, the pass often pays for itself.
Pilgrimage Plan for Kiki’s Delivery Service Fans
Half-Day Plan (approximately 4 hours)
9:00 – Arrive at Gamla Stan Station
Arrive by subway at Gamla Stan station. First, head toward Riddarholmen Church.
9:15 – Around Riddarholmen Church
Enjoy waterside scenery and feel the port town atmosphere. Take photos here.
9:45 – Stortorget Square
Visit Gamla Stan’s iconic square, take commemorative photos against colorful buildings.
10:15 – Alley Exploration
Enter side streets from Västerlånggatan and explore narrow alleys like Mårten Trotzigs gränd.
11:00 – Café Break
At a Stortorget Square café, enjoy Swedish coffee and cinnamon roll.
11:45 – Around Royal Palace
View the palace exterior and, if possible, watch the changing of the guard (confirm times).
12:30 – End
Full Day Plan (approximately 8 hours)
Plus the half-day plan:
13:00 – Lunch
Enjoy Swedish cuisine at a Gamla Stan restaurant.
14:30 – Nobel Museum
Learn about Nobel Prize history and taste Nobel ice cream at the café.
16:00 – Souvenir Shopping
Shop for souvenirs along Västerlånggatan and surrounding areas.
17:30 – Stockholm City Hall Tower
Exit Gamla Stan and climb the City Hall tower for panoramic views of Gamla Stan and Stockholm.
19:00 – Dinner
Dine in Gamla Stan or nearby districts.
20:30 – Twilight Exploration
Explore Gamla Stan again at twilight (in summer it stays bright late). Experience its different daytime atmosphere.
Conclusion: Experiencing Gamla Stan Immersed in Kiki’s Delivery Service’s World
Gamla Stan in Stockholm, Sweden is a dreamlike place for Kiki’s Delivery Service fans. The medieval cityscape, colorful buildings, cobblestone alleys, and harbor scenery that inspired Director Hayao Miyazaki are precisely Koriko from the film.
Beyond being merely a tourist destination, it’s a “pilgrimage site” where fans can experience the film’s world. With each step, film scenes revive and you can almost see Kiki flying on her broomstick—such a special experience awaits.
Though Gamla Stan is a small area, there are endless discoveries through exploration. It never becomes boring regardless of visits. Early quiet hours, bustling daytime, and twilight’s dreamlike atmosphere each offer unique charm.
Sweden is a distant country from Japan, but for Kiki’s Delivery Service fans, it’s a special place worth visiting once in a lifetime. The experience of stepping into the film’s world will surely become an unforgettable memory.
Please use this article as a reference to plan your trip to Gamla Stan, Kiki’s Delivery Service’s pilgrimage site. Kiki and Jiji are waiting in that beautiful port town.
