Chibi Maruko-chan Land Complete Guide | Thorough Explanation of Pilgrimage Spots in Shimizu, Shizuoka Prefecture
Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture is the setting of the nationally beloved anime “Chibi Maruko-chan” and the hometown of original creator Sakura Momoko. “Chibi Maruko-chan Land” in Shimizu Ward is Japan’s only permanent Chibi Maruko-chan exhibition museum, serving as a sacred place for fans. This article thoroughly introduces everything from the appeal of Chibi Maruko-chan Land to surrounding pilgrimage spots.
What is Chibi Maruko-chan Land
“Chibi Maruko-chan Land” is an experiential museum that opened in 1999 inside S-Pulse Dream Plaza and was renovated and reopened in 2020. Located in Shimizu Ward, the setting of the series, it features exhibitions that faithfully recreate the worldview of the anime and manga.
It’s a precious facility where you can experience the Showa-era Shimizu streets and lifestyle that original creator Sakura Momoko actually lived through, from Maruko’s perspective. With content that appeals to everyone from children to adults across generations, it’s a space where you can simultaneously taste nostalgia and new discoveries.
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, you can immerse yourself in the world of Chibi Maruko-chan whenever you visit. The scenery seen in the anime’s opening video and the daily lives of the characters are recreated three-dimensionally, allowing you to experience what it’s like to step inside the anime.
Operating Hours and Admission Fees
Operating Hours
Chibi Maruko-chan Land’s operating hours are as follows:
- Regular Operating Hours: 10:00-20:00 (Last admission 19:30)
Operating hours may change depending on the season and events, so we recommend checking the official website or SNS for the latest information before visiting. Operating hours may especially change during the year-end/New Year period and major holiday periods.
Admission Fees
Admission fees are as follows:
- Junior High School Students and Above (Adults): 1,000 yen
- Ages 3 to Elementary School: 700 yen
- Ages 2 and Under: Free
Group discounts are also available, with discounted rates for groups of 20 or more. Discounted admission is also available for those with disability certificates. 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 Methods
Location
Address: 3rd Floor, S-Pulse Dream Plaza, 13-15 Irifune-cho, Shimizu-ku, 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 S-Pulse Dream Plaza and JR Shimizu Station and operates regularly. The boarding area is at JR Shimizu Station East Exit.
From Shizuoka Railway (Shizutetsu) Shin-Shimizu Station
- Get off at Shizutetsu Shin-Shimizu Station, approximately 10 minutes by free shuttle bus
- 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 Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from Shimizu IC
- Approximately 25 minutes from Shizuoka IC
From Shin-Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from Shin-Shimizu IC
Parking Information
S-Pulse Dream Plaza has a large parking lot.
- Parking Capacity: Approximately 1,000 vehicles
- Parking Fee: First 2 hours free, 100 yen per 30 minutes thereafter
- Operating Hours: 9:00-23:00
Extended parking time services may be available with purchases at Chibi Maruko-chan Land or stores within S-Pulse 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 daily life.
Sakura Family Home
The “Sakura family home” where Maruko lives is faithfully recreated, and you can tour the living room, Maruko’s room, kitchen, and more. The space exuding the atmosphere of a Showa-era household has period appliances and furniture arranged with attention to detail. It’s filled with nostalgic items like the chabudai (low dining table), cathode ray tube TV, and black telephone.
School Classroom
The classroom of the elementary school Maruko attends is also recreated. You can experience the atmosphere of a Showa-era school with wooden desks and chairs, blackboard, organ, and more. The view of Shimizu streets from the classroom windows makes you feel as if you’ve truly become Maruko’s classmate.
Park
The park where Maruko, Tama-chan, Hanawa-kun and others play is also recreated. There are swings, sandbox, playground equipment, and spaces where children can actually play.
“Full of Dreams” Zone
A zone where you can experience the worldview of the anime’s opening video.
Recreation of Opening Video
The world of Chibi Maruko-chan’s well-known opening song “Odoru Ponpokorin” is expressed three-dimensionally. The colorful and fun space is also popular as a photo spot.
Commemorative Photos with Characters
Life-size panels and figures of characters including Maruko are displayed, and you can take commemorative photos with them. Take a memorable picture with your favorite character.
“Maruko’s Dream Amusement Park” Zone
A zone where you can enjoy experiential attractions.
Interactive Exhibits
There are experiential exhibits using digital technology, allowing you to enjoy Maruko’s world more deeply. Content that everyone from children to adults can enjoy, such as quizzes and games, is available.
Limited Goods Shop
Limited goods that can only be obtained at Chibi Maruko-chan Land are sold. Shimizu-limited souvenirs and original goods are must-sees for fans. There’s a wide variety including stuffed animals, stationery, and sweets.
Event Information
Various events are held at Chibi Maruko-chan Land each season.
Limited-Time Events
- Birthday Events: Special events are held on Maruko’s birthday (May 8) and Sakura Momoko’s birthday (May 8)
- Seasonal Events: Decorations and programs matching the season can be enjoyed at Christmas, New Year’s, summer vacation, etc.
- Anniversary Events: Special exhibitions and goods sales are held on anime broadcast anniversary days, etc.
How to Check Latest Information
Event information is updated regularly on the official website and SNS. The official Twitter (X) account (@maruko_land) in particular provides timely updates on the latest event information and goods introductions, so following it is recommended.
Surrounding Pilgrimage Spots
When visiting Chibi Maruko-chan Land, be sure to also visit the surrounding pilgrimage spots. There are many locations related to the series within Shimizu Ward.
Around Shimizu Station
JR Shimizu Station
At the east exit of Shimizu Station, bronze statues of Maruko and her grandfather are installed. It’s become a standard commemorative photo spot that many fans visit. There are also Chibi Maruko-chan-related decorations inside the station, allowing you to feel the atmosphere of this sacred place from the moment you arrive.
Shimizu Ginza Shopping Street
This is considered the model for the shopping street that appears in scenes where Maruko goes shopping. Walking through the shopping street that retains its Showa-era atmosphere allows you to physically feel the worldview of the series.
Locations Related to Sakura Momoko
Irie Elementary School (Former Irie Elementary School)
This is the school that served as the model for the elementary school Maruko attends. Although it has now been consolidated, you can see the exterior of the building. The streets around the school also overlap significantly with scenes appearing in the series, making it enjoyable just to walk around.
Miho no Matsubara
A representative tourist spot of Shimizu Ward where you can enjoy beautiful scenery of Mt. Fuji and pine forests. It also appears in the series and is known as a place Maruko and others visited on a field trip. It’s a scenic spot also registered as a World Cultural Heritage site.
Highlights Inside S-Pulse Dream Plaza
S-Pulse Dream Plaza, which houses Chibi Maruko-chan Land, has other enjoyable facilities as well.
Shimizu Sushi Museum
A facility where you can enjoy sushi made with fresh seafood landed at Shimizu Port. There are also exhibits where you can learn about sushi history and culture, combining dining and learning.
Ferris Wheel “Dream Sky”
From the 52-meter-high Ferris 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 that Maruko saw from the sky.
Model Pilgrimage Course
Here’s a one-day model course for Chibi Maruko-chan fans.
Morning: Shimizu Station Area Tour
- Arrive at JR Shimizu Station (9:00)
- Commemorative photo at the bronze statues of Maruko and her grandfather
- Shimizu Ginza Shopping Street Tour (9:30-10:30)
- Tour the shopping street retaining its Showa-era atmosphere
- Breakfast and souvenir shopping at local stores
- Around Irie Elementary School (11:00-11:30)
- Walk around imagining Maruko’s school route
Afternoon: Chibi Maruko-chan Land and S-Pulse Dream Plaza
- Move to S-Pulse Dream Plaza by Free Shuttle Bus (12:00)
- Lunch (12:15-13:15)
- Meal at restaurants inside S-Pulse Dream Plaza
- Fresh sushi at Shimizu Sushi Museum is also recommended
- Chibi Maruko-chan Land Tour (13:30-15:30)
- Thoroughly tour the museum
- Enjoy photo opportunities and experiential corners
- Shopping for limited goods
- Ferris Wheel “Dream Sky” (15:45-16:15)
- Panoramic view of Shimizu streets
- Shopping at S-Pulse Dream Plaza (16:30-17:30)
- Souvenir shopping and rest
Optional Activities if Time Allows
- Miho no Matsubara: Approximately 15 minutes by car from S-Pulse Dream Plaza. Enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and pine forests.
- Shimizu Port Bay Cruise: Cruise around Shimizu Port by boat and view the city of Shimizu from the sea.
Notes and Tips for Visiting
Tips to Avoid Crowds
- Weekday mornings are relatively uncrowded
- Major holiday periods and summer vacation are expected to be crowded, so right after opening is recommended
- Event days may be more crowded than usual
About Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the museum, but some areas prohibit photography. Even in areas where photography is allowed, be considerate not to disturb other visitors. Flash photography is also prohibited in some areas, so caution is necessary.
Estimated Time Required
- For thorough viewing: 2-3 hours
- For quick viewing: 1-1.5 hours
For those who want to enjoy the exhibits leisurely or take many photos, visiting with time to spare is recommended.
Barrier-Free Information
S-Pulse Dream Plaza is barrier-free compatible, and wheelchair access is possible. Elevators and slopes are installed, allowing smooth movement within the facility. If needed, inquiring with the facility in advance is recommended.
Souvenir and Goods Information
Chibi Maruko-chan Land Limited Goods
Many limited goods that can only be obtained here are sold at Chibi Maruko-chan Land.
- Shimizu-Limited Design Goods: Designs featuring Shimizu landmarks and Mt. Fuji
- Original Stuffed Animals: Popular characters like Maruko, Tama-chan, and Grandfather
- Stationery/Miscellaneous Goods: Practical items like notebooks, pens, clear files, etc.
- Sweets: Sweets using Shizuoka tea and souvenir sweets with Maruko packaging
Popular Souvenir Rankings
- Limited Design Stuffed Animals
- Shimizu-Limited Package Sweets
- Original Tote Bags
- Character Mascots
- Stationery Sets
Popular goods may sell out, so early purchase is recommended if you find something you like.
Shimizu Food Culture and Gourmet
One of the pleasures of pilgrimage is local gourmet food. Shimizu has many delicious foods, starting with fresh seafood.
Shimizu Specialty Gourmet
Sakura Shrimp
Shimizu Port boasts Japan’s largest landing volume of sakura shrimp. You can enjoy it in various dishes such as fresh sakura shrimp, kakiage (tempura fritters), and sakura shrimp bowl. The season is spring and autumn, with fresh sakura shrimp being an especially precious limited-time taste.
Tuna
Shimizu Port is also famous as a base for deep-sea fishing, with fresh tuna being landed. At the Shimizu Sushi Museum inside S-Pulse Dream Plaza, you can taste fresh tuna sushi.
Shimizu Motsu Curry
The popular Shimizu local gourmet “Shimizu Motsu Curry.” It’s a curry using pork offal with rich flavor and substance.
Shizuoka Oden
Shizuoka oden characterized by jet-black soup. The standard way to eat it is with aonori seaweed and dried bonito flakes. There are many shops around Shimizu Station serving Shizuoka oden.
Spots to Combine with Shimizu Sightseeing
Along with Chibi Maruko-chan pilgrimage, enjoy other tourist spots in Shimizu as well.
Nihondaira
A hilly area spanning Shimizu Ward and Suruga Ward, Shizuoka City, offering spectacular views of Mt. Fuji, Suruga Bay, and the Izu Peninsula. You can also access Kunozan Toshogu Shrine via the Nihondaira Ropeway.
Kunozan Toshogu Shrine
A shrine enshrining Tokugawa Ieyasu, designated as a National Treasure. The magnificent and gorgeous shrine buildings are a must-see. You can access it by ropeway from Nihondaira, or climb the stone steps from the seaside (1,159 steps) to worship.
Shimizu Fish Market “Kashi no Ichi”
A market where you can purchase fresh seafood landed at Shimizu Port. There are “Ichiba-kan” and “Maguro-kan” with abundant dining options. Open from early morning, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Summary: Fully Enjoy Shimizu, the Sacred Place 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 creator Sakura Momoko, you can fully enjoy the worldview of the series.
The three zones inside the museum offer diverse exhibitions from Maruko’s daily life to the world of the anime’s opening and experiential attractions. Limited goods are also abundant, and you’ll find wonderful souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
Additionally, pilgrimage spots related to the series are scattered throughout Shimizu Ward, which can be thoroughly explored over a full day. By actually walking the settings of the series, such as the bronze statues of Maruko and her grandfather at JR Shimizu Station, Shimizu Ginza Shopping Street, and around Irie Elementary School, you can understand the world of the series more deeply.
Combined with Shimizu’s delicious gourmet food and tourist spots like Miho no Matsubara and Nihondaira, it will surely be a fulfilling trip. Check the latest event information on the official website and SNS, and by all means visit Shimizu, the sacred place of Chibi Maruko-chan.
The joy of experiencing the world of anime you watched as a child in a place that actually exists will become a memorable experience that transcends generations. Why not spend special time filled with nostalgia and new discoveries at Chibi Maruko-chan Land?