[Studio Ghibli] Kiki’s Delivery Service – Dubrovnik Old Town (Croatia)

[Studio Ghibli] Complete Guide to Dubrovnik Old Town, the Model City of Kiki’s Delivery Service (Croatia)

“Kiki’s Delivery Service,” an immortal masterpiece directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The old town of Dubrovnik, located on the Adriatic coast of Croatia, is known as the model for “Koriko,” the beautiful seaside city that the protagonist Kiki visits for her training. The contrast between the medieval cityscape with its continuous orange-tiled roofs and the sparkling blue Adriatic Sea is exactly like the world depicted in the film. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to the charm and tourist information of this holy site that any Studio Ghibli fan should visit at least once.

The Relationship Between Kiki’s Delivery Service and Dubrovnik

The Cityscape That Inspired Studio Ghibli

In creating “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” director Hayao Miyazaki and the staff of Studio Ghibli conducted research trips to various parts of Europe. Among these, the old town of Dubrovnik in Croatia left a particularly strong impression. The city of Koriko that appears in the film actually draws inspiration from multiple European cities, but Dubrovnik is considered one of the core models.

What is particularly striking is the orange tile roofs of the old town surrounded by city walls. When viewed from a high vantage point, the scene unfolds like an orange carpet spread out. This unique landscape evokes scenes of Kiki flying around the city on her broomstick.

Relationship With Other Model Cities

Besides Dubrovnik, there are several other cities that are said to be models for “Kiki’s Delivery Service.” Stockholm and Visby in Sweden, and Lisbon in Portugal have also been mentioned as candidates. In fact, Koriko in the film could be described as a fictional city combining beautiful elements from multiple cities.

However, the reason Dubrovnik is viewed as special is due to its Mediterranean atmosphere and the high degree of perfection as a walled city. The overwhelming beauty and exotic atmosphere when Kiki first lands in Koriko in the film overlaps significantly with the first impression of Dubrovnik.

Basic Information About Dubrovnik Old Town

History and Cultural Background

Dubrovnik is a beautiful city also known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Founded around the 7th century, it prospered as the capital of the Ragusian Republic, which thrived on maritime trade in the Middle Ages. Its historical value was recognized and it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

The city walls surrounding the old town were constructed in stages from the 13th to 17th centuries and extend approximately 2 kilometers. Thanks to these sturdy walls, Dubrovnik was able to withstand numerous invasions and sieges and maintain its independence.

During the Croatian War of the 1990s, the old town was also damaged by bombardment, but it has undergone a remarkable recovery with international support. Today, it has regained its beautiful appearance and become a popular tourist destination visited by people from around the world.

Geographic Features

Dubrovnik is located at the southernmost point of Croatia, on the Adriatic coast. It features a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and relatively warm, rainy winters. The old town is built on a limestone rock base, and the contrast between white stone buildings and orange roof tiles creates a beautiful landscape.

Mount Srdj, standing 412 meters high, towers to the east of the city, and a cable car can take you to the summit. The view from here is spectacular, offering a panoramic view of the entire old town and the Adriatic Sea. This landscape is exactly what Kiki would have seen while flying through the sky on her broomstick.

Must-See Spots for Studio Ghibli Fans to Experience Kiki’s Delivery Service

Srdj Mountain Viewpoint: Experience Kiki’s Perspective

If you visit Dubrovnik, the first place you should go is the Srdj Mountain viewpoint. After a cable car ride of about 4 minutes, you reach the summit where the old town with its orange roofs and the deep blue Adriatic Sea spread out before you.

This view is reminiscent of when Kiki first looked down at the city of Koriko from her broomstick. Especially at sunset, the setting sun turns the Adriatic Sea golden, enveloping the landscape in a fantastical atmosphere. It’s also an ideal time for photography.

The viewpoint has a café and restaurant where you can enjoy a leisurely meal while gazing at the spectacular view. The cable car operates from 9 a.m. until late at night, so it’s recommended to visit multiple times at different times of day.

City Wall Walk: Experience the Feeling of Flying Through the City

The city walls surrounding Dubrovnik’s old town can be walked all the way around. The full circuit is approximately 2 kilometers long and takes between 1.5 to 2 hours. From the walls, you can look down at the orange-tiled roofs of the city below, giving you the feeling of looking out over the city as if you were Kiki.

The city wall walk is typically done counterclockwise. Along the way, there are several fortresses and watchtowers, each offering different views of the city and sea. In particular, the view from the Minceta Fortress is spectacular, allowing you to grasp the entire old town.

In summer, it is extremely hot and there is almost no shade on the walls, so a hat, sunscreen, and water are essential. It is recommended to visit during relatively cooler early morning or evening hours.

Placa Street: Koriko’s Main Street

Placa Street (Stradun), which runs east to west through the center of the old town, is Dubrovnik’s main street. The polished limestone pavement is beautiful, and historic buildings stand on both sides. Walking down this street, you can’t help but remember scenes of Kiki walking through the city on deliveries.

Along the street are cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops bustling with tourists. It’s also an area where major attractions are concentrated, including the Onofrio’s Great Fountain, Sponza Palace, and the Clock Tower.

Visiting early in the morning allows you to explore the city’s beauty more deeply in a quiet atmosphere with fewer tourists. At night, the street is illuminated, offering a different magical atmosphere from daytime.

Old Harbor: Seaside Scenery

The old harbor on the east side of the old town is a place that conveys the history of Dubrovnik, which thrived on maritime trade. Small fishing boats and sailboats are moored here, creating a peaceful seaside landscape.

The atmosphere of this harbor recalls scenes in the film where Kiki gazes at the sea or meets Tombo by the seaside. Seafood restaurants line the harbor, where you can enjoy dishes made with fresh fish and seafood.

Boat tours to Lokrum Island depart from the old harbor. The island is reached in about 10 minutes by boat and is a popular spot where you can enjoy beautiful nature and tranquility.

Luza Square: The Heart of the City

Located at the eastern end of Placa Street, Luza Square was the political and cultural center of Dubrovnik. Important buildings such as St. Blaise Church, Sponza Palace, and the Rector’s Palace stand around the square.

In the center of the square stands a column topped with a statue of St. Blaise, the patron saint of Dubrovnik. This column was once a symbol of the freedom and independence of the Ragusian Republic.

Café and restaurant terraces surround the square, with locals and tourists passing through in a vibrant atmosphere. The scenes of the busy center of the city depicted in the film overlap perfectly with this image.

How to Get to Dubrovnik

Access from Japan

There are no direct flights from Japan to Dubrovnik. Generally, the route involves a connection through a major European city. Common transit cities include Istanbul, Vienna, Frankfurt, Munich, and Zurich.

The most common route is via Istanbul. From Narita or Haneda, Turkish Airlines flies to Istanbul in about 12 hours, and from there you can connect to Dubrovnik in about 2 hours. Including connection time, the total journey takes approximately 18 to 24 hours.

There is also a route via Zagreb, Croatia’s capital. You can fly to Zagreb and then take a domestic flight to Dubrovnik or travel by bus. The bus journey takes about 10 hours but allows you to enjoy beautiful Croatian scenery along the way.

Access from the Airport to the Old Town

Dubrovnik Airport (Čilipi Airport) is located about 20 kilometers southeast of the old town. There are three main ways to get from the airport to the old town.

Airport Shuttle Bus: The most economical option. It operates according to arriving flights and takes about 30 minutes, costing about 50 kuna (approximately 900 yen) one way. The final stop is near the bus terminal at the Pile Gate.

Taxi: Takes about 25 minutes and costs between 250 to 300 kuna (approximately 4,500 to 5,400 yen). Convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with multiple people.

Shuttle Service: Some hotels offer paid or complimentary shuttle services. It’s reassuring to confirm in advance and make a reservation.

Best Season to Visit Dubrovnik

Spring (April–June): The Most Recommended Time

Spring is the best season to visit Dubrovnik. Temperatures range from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable for sightseeing. Especially from May to June, flowers bloom throughout, and the entire city becomes colorful.

This is before peak summer tourism, so it’s not as crowded as in summer. Hotel rates are relatively reasonable, and you can explore the city at a leisurely pace. While the sea is a bit cool for swimming, it’s an ideal season for tourism.

Summer (July–August): The Most Lively Season

Summer is the peak tourism season in Dubrovnik. Temperatures often exceed 30 degrees Celsius, making it extremely hot. However, it’s also an excellent time to enjoy swimming in the Adriatic Sea.

From July to August, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival takes place, with music and theater performances held throughout the old town. This is the ideal time for those who want to enjoy cultural events.

However, this period is extremely crowded with tourists from around the world. Especially on days when cruise ships call, the old town is packed with people. Hotel rates are also highest during this time, requiring a generous budget for your trip.

Fall (September–October): The Hidden Gem Season

Fall is also recommended alongside spring. September still retains heat and allows for swimming. By October, temperatures drop but remain around 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, providing comfortable weather for sightseeing.

The summer peak season has passed, and the number of tourists has settled down. Hotel rates begin to drop, allowing for a better cost-benefit ratio. The old town bathed in the soft light of autumn appears even more beautiful.

Winter (November–March): Enjoying a Quiet City

Winter is when Dubrovnik receives the fewest tourists. Temperatures range from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, and rainy days are common. However, you can explore the city in a quiet, calm atmosphere.

Hotel rates are lowest, making it suitable for extended stays. During the Christmas season, the old town is decorated with illuminations, creating a romantic atmosphere.

However, some restaurants and shops may be closed for the winter season, so advance confirmation is necessary. Also, tourist facilities like the cable car may close during bad weather.

Accommodation Information in Dubrovnik

Hotels Within the Old Town

The main advantage of staying within the old town is that major tourist attractions are within walking distance. You can enjoy the illuminated cityscape at night or explore the quiet city early in the morning.

However, the number of hotels within the old town is limited, and rates are high. Also, vehicles cannot enter, so moving with luggage is difficult. With many stone alleyways and stairs, carrying large suitcases can be challenging.

Representative hotels include “Hotel Stari Grad” and “Puća Palace.” Both are luxury hotels using historic buildings, offering special experiences.

Hotels Around the Old Town

There are many hotels just outside the old town near the Pile Gate or Ploče Gate. While only a few minutes’ walk from the old town, they offer relatively reasonable rates.

Hotels in this area usually have car access and many have parking facilities. Supermarkets and other conveniences are nearby, making them suitable for extended stays.

“Hotel Lero” and “Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik” are popular hotels. “Hotel Bellevue” in particular is a five-star hotel perched on a cliff, offering spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea.

Apartments and Guest Houses

To save on budget or for extended stays, apartments and guest houses are also recommended. Rooms with kitchens allow you to cook and save on food expenses.

In Dubrovnik, “Sobe” (rooms) are common, where locals rent part of their homes to tourists. They’re easy to book through Airbnb and Booking.com.

Interaction with hosts provides an opportunity to experience local culture and lifestyle. You may also get recommendations for good restaurants and hidden gems.

Dining Information in Dubrovnik

Characteristics of Croatian Cuisine

Croatian cuisine is diverse, influenced by Mediterranean, Central European, and Balkan cooking. In the Dalmatian region where Dubrovnik is located, dishes using fresh seafood are particularly abundant.

Generous use of olive oil and flavoring with herbs and spices are characteristic. Most dishes are simple yet allow the taste of ingredients to shine, making them generally palatable to Japanese tastes.

Recommended Local Dishes

Brudet: A seafood tomato stew representing Dalmatian cuisine. White fish, shrimp, mussels, and other seafood are stewed in tomato sauce and served with polenta (cornmeal mush).

Crni Rižot (Black Risotto): Risotto made with squid ink, appearing jet black. Despite the striking appearance, the taste is very mild and delicious, with concentrated squid umami.

Pašticada: Beef stewed in red wine, a traditional dish eaten on special occasions. Long simmering makes the meat tender, melding beautifully with the rich sauce. Usually served with gnocchi.

Salata od hobotnice (Octopus Salad): Boiled octopus dressed with olive oil, lemon, and parsley. A popular appetizer.

Peka: A traditional cooking method where meat and vegetables are covered with an iron lid and slow-roasted over charcoal. Lamb, veal, or octopus are used. It can take over 2 hours from order to serving, so advance reservations are recommended.

Recommended Restaurants

Nautika Restaurant: A fine dining restaurant near the Pile Gate in the old town. It has terrace seating overlooking the Adriatic Sea and offers a romantic dining atmosphere. Listed in the Michelin Guide.

Proto: A long-established restaurant founded in 1886, famous for fresh seafood dishes. Beloved by locals, it offers authentic Dalmatian cuisine.

Konoba Dalmatino: A casual restaurant within the old town offering hearty local dishes at reasonable prices.

Lady Pi-Pi: Located on a high terrace outside the walls, accessible by climbing stairs. Famous for charcoal-grilled meat dishes, it offers casual dining with spectacular views of the old town.

Croatian Wine

Croatia is also known as a wine-producing country. In the Dalmatian region, red wines like “Dingač” and “Postup,” and white wines like “Pošip” and “Grk” are famous.

At restaurants, local wines can be ordered by the glass or bottle. They pair well with food, enhancing the dining experience. Wine shops abound, making wines a good souvenir purchase.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

Lokrum Island

About 10 minutes by boat from the old harbor, Lokrum Island is a natural, uninhabited island. The entire island is designated a nature reserve, home to beautiful plants and wild peacocks.

The island features ruins of an 11th-century Benedictine monastery and fortress remains from the Napoleonic era. The “Dead Sea,” a saltwater lake, also offers swimming opportunities.

It’s recommended for those wanting to relax in quiet nature away from Dubrovnik’s bustle. Boats operate every 15 to 30 minutes, with round-trip tickets costing about 150 kuna (approximately 2,700 yen).

Elaphite Islands

The Elaphite Islands off Dubrovnik’s coast consist of three inhabited islands—Kolocep, Lopud, and Sipan—plus several uninhabited islands. Each has beautiful beaches and quiet villages, ideal for day trips.

Regular ferries depart from the old harbor, with tours visiting all three islands available. On the islands, you can enjoy cycling, hiking, and swimming. Sipan Island particularly charms with its pastoral landscape of olive and grape fields.

Kotor (Montenegro)

About 100 kilometers south of Dubrovnik lies Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site in neighboring Montenegro. It beautifully combines a fjord-like bay with medieval cityscape.

Day tours from Dubrovnik are numerous. It’s about 2.5 hours by bus, enjoying beautiful Adriatic views along the way. Kotor’s old town, though smaller than Dubrovnik’s, is equally charming with its surrounding walls.

Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

About 140 kilometers north of Dubrovnik lies Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, another popular day trip. Famous for Stari Most (the Old Bridge) built in the 16th century, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The beautiful arched bridge spanning the emerald-green Neretva River is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. The old town features mosques and bazaars, reflecting strong Islamic cultural influence.

About 3 hours by bus from Dubrovnik, many day tours are available, offering a chance to experience a culture different from Croatia.

Travel Precautions and Advice

Currency and Payment Methods

Croatia’s currency became the Euro (EUR) starting January 2023. Before that, the Croatian Kuna (HRK) was used, now unified as the Euro.

Credit cards are accepted at major hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash may be needed at small stores and markets. ATMs are numerous throughout and around the old town, making cash withdrawal easy.

Tipping customs aren’t strict, but it’s customary to give about 10% of the bill for good service.

Language and Communication

The official language is Croatian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Younger generations and tourism workers speak fluent English.

Learning basic Croatian greetings will please locals. “Hello” is “Dobar dan,” “thank you” is “Hvala,” and “goodbye” is “Doviđenja.”

Restaurant menus often include English, but small local shops may have Croatian-only menus. Keeping a translation app handy is useful.

Clothing and Belongings

The old town has many stone alleyways and stairs, so comfortable shoes are essential. Especially for the city wall walk, sneakers or athletic shoes are recommended.

In summer, temperatures are extremely high, making hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen must-haves. Also carry a water bottle for hydration. Meanwhile, air conditioning is common indoors at restaurants and hotels, so a light cardigan is useful.

When visiting churches and monasteries, clothing covering shoulders and knees is required. In summer especially, bring long pants or sleeved shirts in addition to shorts and tank tops.

Safety and Security

Dubrovnik is relatively safe, but pickpocketing and theft targeting tourists occur. Be especially careful in crowded areas.

Store passports and large amounts of cash in your hotel’s safe, carrying only essentials when going out. Hold bags in front of you and keep zippers closed.

Solo nighttime walks are relatively safe within the old town, but it’s better to avoid quiet alleyways.

Photography Etiquette

Dubrovnik is photogenic no matter where you point a camera, but photography has etiquette. Many churches prohibit interior photography—always check before shooting.

When photographing locals as subjects, always get permission first. Especially in markets, a courtesy word to shop owners before photographing their goods is polite.

Drone use is prohibited within the old town. Violations can result in fines.

Trip Plan to Experience the World of Kiki’s Delivery Service

One-Day Model Course

Morning: Enter the old town through the Pile Gate early, exploring Placa Street while tourists are few. After viewing the Onofrio’s Fountain and Franciscan Monastery, start the city wall walk. Spend about 2 hours leisurely circling the walls, enjoying the view of orange roofs while feeling like Kiki.

Lunch: After finishing the wall walk, enjoy lunch at an old town restaurant, sampling fresh seafood and Croatian wine.

Afternoon: Take the cable car to Srdj Mountain’s viewpoint. Enjoy the panoramic views and photography. After rest at the viewpoint café, descend again.

Evening: Explore the old harbor area and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. Time permitting, consider a Lokrum Island boat tour.

Night: Climb Srdj Mountain again for sunset viewing, or enjoy dinner at an old town restaurant while admiring the illuminated cityscape.

2-3 Day Stay Plan

Day one follows the model course above, thoroughly exploring the old town. Day two, enjoy day trips to Lokrum Island or the Elaphite Islands. Day three, join day tours to nearby World Heritage sites like Kotor or Mostar.

If time allows, visit the Dubrovnik cable car multiple times at different hours to enjoy the landscape in different light.

Special Ways for Studio Ghibli Fans to Enjoy

Download “Kiki’s Delivery Service” soundtrack to your smartphone and listen while exploring. Hearing the film’s music while looking down at orange roofs creates the sensation of entering the movie itself.

Recalling scenes where Kiki flies on her broomstick while viewing the city from walls or Srdj Mountain deepens the emotional impact. Taking photos that recreate favorite film scenes is also enjoyable.

Buying fresh bread from local bakeries and eating it by the seaside recalls the film’s scenes. Many fans remember Kiki meeting Osono the baker.

Conclusion: Experience the World of Kiki’s Delivery Service in Reality

Dubrovnik’s old town in Croatia is truly a dream destination for “Kiki’s Delivery Service” fans. The beautiful medieval cityscape with continuous orange roofs, the sparkling blue Adriatic Sea, stone alleyways retaining medieval atmosphere—everything evokes Koriko from the film.

Walking the walls offers Kiki’s perspective of viewing the city from the sky. The Srdj Mountain viewpoint presents exactly the spectacular view of the film’s opening scene. Walking the old town’s alleyways brings to mind scenes of Kiki rushing about on deliveries.

Dubrovnik isn’t merely a beautiful tourist destination. It’s a gateway to the magical world we dreamed of as children. Visiting here deepens love for “Kiki’s Delivery Service” and brings new discoveries and emotions.

Why not experience the world of “Kiki’s Delivery Service” in Dubrovnik, called the “Pearl of the Adriatic”? It’s sure to become an unforgettable memory of a lifetime.