“The Borrower Arrietty,” a Studio Ghibli work released in 2010. Known as the directorial debut of director Hiromasa Yonebayashi, this film contains a sacred site that Studio Ghibli has officially acknowledged as “greatly referenced.” These are the Nogawa River, Hake no Koji, Tenjin Bridge, and Musashino Park in the Koganei City area of Tokyo.
In this article, based on actual on-site experiences, we provide a complete guide to sacred site pilgrimage where you can experience the world of Arrietty by making detailed comparisons between movie scenes and actual filming locations. From access methods to filming spots and nearby attractions, we have compiled information useful for those planning to visit.
About “The Borrower Arrietty”
“The Borrower Arrietty” is an animated film by Studio Ghibli based on “The Borrowers,” a children’s novel by British author Mary Norton. The planning and screenplay are by Hayao Miyazaki, with director Hiromasa Yonebayashi, depicting the interaction between Arrietty, a 10-centimeter-tall girl, and Sho, a human boy with a heart condition.
The voice cast includes Mirai Shida, Ryunosuke Kamiki, Shinbu Ohtake, Keiko Takeshita, Tatsuya Fujiwara, Tomokazu Miura, and Kirin Kiki, with music and the theme song performed by French harpist Cecile Corbel.
The stage of the movie is a sprawling mansion with an overgrown garden. Arrietty lives under the floor of the mansion with her father and mother, “borrowing” necessities from the human house and living as borrowers. The world of these little people who “borrow” and “live” is depicted in delicate and beautiful imagery.
Official Studio Ghibli Filming Locations
The official Studio Ghibli website lists the following four locations as “greatly referenced” in the production of “The Borrower Arrietty”:
- Morimien Garden, Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture: A Japanese garden designated as a National Scenic Spot, serving as an image model for the old mansion and gardens featured in the film
- Hake no Koji, Koganei City, Tokyo: A charming path serving as a reference location for the surrounding environment where Arrietty and her family live
- Nogawa River, Tokyo: A model for the river that appears in an important scene in the latter half of the film
- Musashino Park, Tokyo: A nature-rich park stretching along the Nogawa River, serving as a reference for the natural depictions in the work
This article provides detailed explanations of three of these locations in the Koganei City area of Tokyo (Hake no Koji, Nogawa River, and Musashino Park) as well as Tenjin Bridge.
Hake no Koji: Gateway to Arrietty’s World
What is Hake no Koji
“Hake no Koji” is a charming path along the Kokubunji Cliff Line (commonly known as “hake”) in Nukui-Minamicho, Koganei City, Tokyo. “Hake” is a local term referring to a cliff or cliff line, indicating the step terrace at the boundary between the Musashino Plateau and the Tamagawa Lowlands.
This path is surrounded by bamboo fences and trees, creating a quiet space isolated from urban bustle. Director Hiromasa Yonebayashi is said to have actually visited this location and incorporated it into the environmental depictions of the mansion where Arrietty and her family live.
Comparison with Movie Scenes
Walking along Hake no Koji allows you to feel the atmosphere of the path Arrietty took when she first ventured out to “borrow.” In particular, the following elements overlap with the movie’s worldview:
- Bamboo fences and stone walls: The bamboo fences and old stone walls lining the path evoke the boundary of the human world from a little person’s perspective
- Dappled sunlight: Light filtering through the trees embodies the beauty of the outside world that Arrietty experienced
- Undulating terrain: The elevation differences characteristic of the cliff line express the adventurous environment for the little people
Access and Strolling Tips
Nearest Station: Approximately 20 minutes walk from the south exit of JR Chuo Line “Musashi-Koganei Station,” or 5 minutes walk from “Nukui-Minamicho” bus stop
Tips for Strolling:
- Walk quietly as the path is in a residential area
- Early morning hours have fewer people and allow better immersion in the movie’s worldview
- You can enjoy seasonal changes in nature, with spring greenery (around May) being especially recommended
Nogawa River: The Stage for the Teapot Boat Adventure Scene
Characteristics of Nogawa River
The Nogawa River is a first-class river approximately 20 kilometers long that originates from springwater in the Hitachi Central Research Laboratory in Kokubunji City and merges with the Tamagawa River in Setagaya Ward. In the Koganei City area, clear streams and lush riverbanks create beautiful scenery and serve as a recreation spot for local residents.
The river has a narrow width and relatively gentle flow, with water plants and wild birds frequently observed along the riverbanks. This nature-rich environment is likely why it was chosen as the stage for Arrietty and her family’s adventure.
Film’s Climactic Scene
In the latter part of the film, Arrietty and her family are discovered by humans and decide to leave in search of a new home. In this scene, they float down the Nogawa River in a teapot serving as their boat.
Visiting the actual Nogawa River, you can confirm the following elements depicted in the film:
- Starting point from the rocks: Near Hake no Koji along the Nogawa River, there are rocks believed to be where Arrietty and her family boarded their teapot boat in the film
- River flow: The film depicts a rapid current, but the actual Nogawa River flows gently and smoothly
- Riverside vegetation: Water-side plants and trees express the giant nature as viewed from a little person’s perspective
Recommended Filming Spots at Nogawa River
Recommended Photography Points:
- Rocks near Hake no Koji: The presumed starting point for the teapot boat departure
- Riverbank before Tenjin Bridge: A beautiful spot with contrasting river flow and greenery
- Nogawa River along Musashino Park: The scenic view of the Nogawa from the nature observation garden side
Best Season for Photography:
- Spring (late March to April): Cherry blossoms are beautiful and the season is close to the film’s setting
- Early Summer (May to June): Fresh greenery is vivid and the scenery is full of vitality
- Autumn (October to November): Fall foliage and clear stream create a stunning contrast
Tenjin Bridge: A Turning Point in the Story
Overview of Tenjin Bridge
Following Hake no Koji down the Nogawa River, you arrive at a small bridge called Tenjin Bridge. This bridge appears in an important scene in the film. After traveling down the river in their teapot boat, Arrietty and her family pass under this bridge.
The actual Tenjin Bridge is a simple bridge used as a local residential road, but its appearance is the very embodiment of the film’s worldview. Looking down at the Nogawa from the bridge, you can reverse roles and re-experience the little ones’ adventure from a human perspective.
Film Scene Recreation
Around Tenjin Bridge, you can recreate the following film scenes:
- Looking up from under the bridge: Going down to the riverbank and looking up from under the bridge allows you to experience the perspective of Arrietty and her family passing in the teapot boat
- Viewing the river from the bridge: You can imagine the little ones’ journey from a human viewpoint
- Surrounding scenery: The landscape of the Nogawa before and after the bridge matches the film’s scenes remarkably
Access and Precautions
Since Tenjin Bridge is a small bridge in a residential area, please note the following when visiting:
- Keep conversations and noise to a minimum
- Avoid lingering on the bridge for extended periods so as not to obstruct traffic
- When going down to the riverbank, watch your footing and ensure your safety
- Do not trespass on private property
Musashino Park: Nature Observation and a Place of Respite
Appeal of Musashino Park
Musashino Park is a metropolitan park spanning Fuchu City and Koganei City, Tokyo, spreading out along the Nogawa River. The park contains springwater near the source of the Nogawa River, diverse plants, and resident wild birds, allowing visitors to enjoy nature throughout the four seasons.
Listed by Studio Ghibli as an official reference location, this park served as an inspiration source for the rich natural depictions in the film. It is believed that the park’s environment inspired Arrietty’s wonder upon first seeing the outside world and the little people’s way of life in nature.
Highlights Within the Park
Riverside Walking Path:
The walking path along the Nogawa River is an excellent course to experience the film’s worldview. Listen to the murmur of the stream while observing the surroundings from a little person’s perspective.
Kunugi Garden and Copse:
Musashino’s typical mixed woodland is preserved, offering an atmosphere like the backyard of the mansion where Arrietty lives. The autumn acorn-gathering season is particularly recommended for an experience of entering the film’s world.
Nature Observation Garden:
With a spring-fed pond and wetland areas, you can observe diverse water plants and insects. This is where you can experience the “great nature” from the little ones’ perspective.
Activities at the Park
- Picnicking: Spend a relaxing time on the lawn
- Bird watching: The environment is suitable for bird observation
- Photography: Seasonal nature serves as a subject
- Walking and jogging: Enjoy comfortable exercise on maintained paths
Access:
- About 10 minutes by bus from the south exit of JR Chuo Line “Musashi-Koganei Station”
- About 20 minutes walk from Tamagawa Line “Tama Station”
- Parking available (fee)
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Here we introduce model courses to efficiently visit Arrietty sacred sites in the Koganei City area of Tokyo.
Half-Day Course (Approximately 3-4 hours)
Start: JR Musashi-Koganei Station
↓ 20 minutes walk or bus
1. Hake no Koji (Stay: 30 minutes)
- Enjoy the scenery of bamboo fences and stone walls
- Capture the atmosphere of the path in photographs
↓ 5 minutes walk
2. Nogawa River and Tenjin Bridge Area (Stay: 45 minutes)
- Look for the teapot boat departure starting point
- Take photographs from above and below Tenjin Bridge
- Stroll along the riverbank
↓ 10 minutes walk
3. Musashino Park (Stay: 1-2 hours)
- Walk the riverside walking path
- Visit the nature observation garden
- Rest on the lawn
↓ Walk or bus
Goal: Musashi-Koganei Station or Tama Station
Full-Day Course (Approximately 6-7 hours)
Add the following to the half-day course:
4. Nogawa Park (Chofu City, Mitaka City, and Koganei City, Tokyo)
- Explore a wider range along the Nogawa River
- Visit the nature observation center
5. Lunch at a Local Cafe
- Various charming cafes are scattered throughout Koganei City
- It’s also fun to discuss Ghibli works
6. Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum (If time permits)
- An open-air museum with historically significant buildings relocated and restored
- Visit while imagining the floor spaces of old Japanese houses
Best Seasons and Times to Visit
Seasonal Recommendations
Spring (March to May):
This season is closest to the film’s setting, with beautiful new greenery and flowers. April especially offers cherry blossoms. Mild temperatures make it ideal for strolling.
Summer (June to August):
Greenery is most abundant and the scenery is full of vitality. However, preparation for heat and insects is necessary. Early morning or evening visits are recommended.
Autumn (September to November):
Fall foliage is beautiful and you can experience autumn bounty such as acorns. The weather is pleasant and lighting conditions are ideal for photography.
Winter (December to February):
Few people make for a quiet stroll. After leaves have fallen, you get a better view of the river, offering a different charm. Take proper cold-weather precautions.
Time of Day Tips
Early Morning (7:00-9:00):
- Few people allow quiet immersion in the film’s world
- Morning light is beautiful, ideal for photography
- Bird songs can be heard
Late Morning (9:00-12:00):
- Good lighting conditions for photography
- Relatively uncrowded
Afternoon (12:00-16:00):
- More people visit during this time
- The afternoon light around Tenjin Bridge is beautiful
Evening (16:00-18:00):
- Beautiful scenery with sunset reflected on the river surface
- Fewer people make it quieter
Photography Tips and Etiquette
Photography Techniques
Be mindful of a little person’s perspective:
- Position the camera low to the ground for low-angle shots
- Include grass, flowers, stones, and tree roots in the foreground
- A macro lens can better express the little people’s worldview
Recreate scenes from the film:
- Review the film beforehand and screenshot memorable scenes
- Search for the same angles and photograph them
- Creating comparison photos is fun
Make use of natural light:
- Utilize dappled sunlight and river reflections
- Use backlighting for atmospheric photos
- Golden hour (after sunrise and before sunset) is especially recommended
Visiting Etiquette
Sacred site pilgrimage is a popular activity visited by many fans, but please observe the following etiquette:
- Remember you are in a residential area: Hake no Koji and surrounding areas are residential. Keep conversation and noise to a minimum
- Do not trespass on private property: Be careful not to enter private property while absorbed in photography
- Take all trash with you: To preserve the natural environment, always take all trash with you
- Respect flora and fauna: To protect the ecosystem around the Nogawa River, do not damage or take away plants and animals
- Follow traffic rules: Many paths are narrow, so be mindful of bicycles and vehicles
- Be considerate during busy times: Share photography spots courteously with other visitors at popular locations
Recommended Nearby Spots
Here are nearby spots worth visiting before and after your sacred site pilgrimage.
Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum
Located within Koganei Park, this open-air museum has historic buildings from the Edo period through the early Showa period relocated and restored. Viewing the structure of old Japanese houses will give you a more concrete image of the “floor space” where Arrietty and her family live.
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (10 AM to 4:30 PM October to March)
Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday), year-end and New Year
Admission: Adults 400 yen, university students 320 yen, high school and junior high students (non-Tokyo residents) 200 yen
Koganei Park
A sprawling metropolitan park covering approximately 80 hectares, featuring flowers blooming in each season and spacious lawns. Ideal for picnicking and strolling, it’s popular with families.
Hake no Mori Museum
An art museum housed in the former residence of oil painter Kenichi Nakamura, featuring architecture that takes advantage of the natural environment of hake. Periodic special exhibitions are held and it is recommended for art enthusiasts.
Nogawa Park
Located adjacent to Musashino Park, this metropolitan park allows you to explore a wider range along the Nogawa River. A nature observation center is available where you can learn about the ecosystem of the Nogawa River.
Local Cafes and Restaurants
Various charming cafes and restaurants are scattered throughout the Koganei City area:
- Natural Cafe: Healthy menus using local ingredients
- Old House Cafe: Relax in Showa-era nostalgia atmosphere
- Bakery Cafe: Enjoy fresh-baked bread and coffee
Access Information
Access by Train
JR Chuo Line “Musashi-Koganei Station”:
- About 30 minutes from Shinjuku Station
- About 50 minutes from Tokyo Station
- About 20 minutes walk from the south exit, or accessible by bus
Tamagawa Line “Tama Station”:
- Convenient for accessing Musashino Park
- About 20 minutes walk from the station
Access by Bus
From Musashi-Koganei Station South Exit:
- Keio Bus “Fuchu Station bound” or “Chofu Station bound”
- Get off at “Nukui-Minamicho” and walk about 5 minutes to Hake no Koji
Access by Car
Chuo Expressway:
- About 15 minutes from “Chofu IC”
- Paid parking available at Musashino Park (300 yen per hour, 100 yen per 30 minutes thereafter)
Notes:
- Street parking is prohibited in residential areas around Hake no Koji
- Parking lots are crowded on weekends; use of public transportation is recommended
Packing Checklist
A checklist of items to make your sacred site pilgrimage comfortable and enjoyable.
Essential Items
- Comfortable walking shoes: For walking on strolling paths and riverbanks
- Beverages: Especially important for heat stroke prevention in summer
- Towel and handkerchief: For wiping sweat
- Sunscreen and hat: Sun protection
- Insect repellent spray: Especially essential in summer
- Smartphone and camera: For photography
- Mobile battery: Due to heavy battery consumption from photography
Convenient Items
- Map and guidebook: Print this article or reference it on your smartphone
- Film scene photos: For comparison photography
- Picnic mat: For resting in parks
- Binoculars: For bird watching
- Notebook and pen: To note impressions and discoveries
- Rainwear: In case of unstable weather
Combining with Other Sacred Sites
To aim for a complete sacred site pilgrimage of “The Borrower Arrietty,” consider visiting Morimien Garden in Aomori Prefecture as well.
Morimien Garden, Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture
A nationally designated scenic spot that served as a model for the old Western-style mansion and Japanese garden in the film. The beautiful garden created in the Meiji era and the building called “Seibikan” with its blend of Japanese and Western styles are the main attractions.
Access:
- From Hirosaki Station by Konan Railway to “Hiraka Station,” about 7 minutes walk
- Recommended as part of a trip from Tokyo to Aomori
Example Combination Plan:
- Day 1: Sacred site pilgrimage around Tokyo’s Koganei City
- Day 2: Move to Aomori by bullet train
- Day 3: Visit Morimien Garden and explore Aomori
Conclusion: Experience the World of Arrietty
The Nogawa River, Hake no Koji, Tenjin Bridge, and Musashino Park in the Koganei City area of Tokyo are precious sacred sites where you can actually experience the worldview of “The Borrower Arrietty.” As official filming locations acknowledged by Studio Ghibli, these locations are visited by many fans.
Revisiting the film before visiting allows you to be moved by the correspondence with scenes and gain a deeper understanding of the work. Observing your surroundings from a little person’s perspective allows you to notice the beauty of nature and the workings of life that you normally overlook.
This area, easily accessible from the city center while maintaining abundant nature and a quiet environment, is the perfect place to escape daily life and immerse yourself in the Ghibli world. Enjoy visiting the Nogawa and Musashino nature displays, which present different faces with each season, many times over.
Why not spend a special time thinking of the story of Arrietty and Sho while observing etiquette toward residential areas and natural environments? Small discoveries and great emotions are surely waiting for you.
