【Complete Guide】The Charm and Tourist Information of Colmar (France), the Stage of Howl’s Moving Castle
The Deep Connection Between Colmar and Howl’s Moving Castle
The City Visited by Director Hayao Miyazaki
Colmar, located in the Alsatian region of eastern France, has attracted attention from Studio Ghibli fans worldwide as the city where location scouting for the masterpiece ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ was conducted. In December 2001, Director Hayao Miyazaki visited this beautiful medieval town when participating in a Studio Ghibli film event held in Paris.
Despite being a small city with a population of approximately 70,000, Colmar is a special place where centuries of history and culture are concentrated. Located near the border with Germany, it possesses a unique atmosphere where French and German cultures have merged, and its landscape is said to have greatly stimulated Director Miyazaki’s creativity.
The Film’s World View Born from Location Scouting
In the production of ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ the Studio Ghibli staff members carefully observed the streets of Colmar, conducted photography, and gathered materials. The street scenery appearing in the film, particularly the medieval European atmosphere created by timber-framed buildings, was greatly inspired by Colmar’s actual landscape.
The cobblestone roads where Sophie walks in the film, the streets lined with colorful buildings, and above all the impressive triangular-roofed architecture remarkably match the actual scenery of Colmar. The French Tourism Board has officially acknowledged it as “the model,” and it has now become a sacred site visited by many Ghibli fans, primarily Japanese tourists.
The Geography and Historical Background of Colmar
The Jewel of the Alsatian Region
Colmar is located at the easternmost end of the Alsatian region of France, in a strategic location close to the borders with Germany and Switzerland. This geographical characteristic has greatly influenced the city’s culture and architectural style. It is located approximately 70 kilometers southwest of Strasbourg, the central city of the Alsatian region, and both cities are connected by railway in approximately 30 minutes.
The Alsatian region borders Germany across the Rhine River, and historically, the region’s allegiance has changed between France and Germany multiple times. This complex history formed a unique cultural identity, making it a fascinating region where French and German elements blend in all aspects—architecture, language, and cuisine.
The History of the City Continuing from the Middle Ages
Colmar’s history dates back to the 9th century. During the Middle Ages, it prospered as an imperial free city and developed as a trading center. Many timber-framed buildings constructed from the 13th to 17th centuries remain today, becoming the city’s greatest attraction.
Particularly during the Renaissance of the 16th century, merchants who gained wealth from silver mining and the textile industry built luxurious mansions. These buildings were decorated in fine detail, conveying the high technical skills of craftsmen of that era. Having miraculously escaped the ravages of World War II, the medieval street layout has been preserved in nearly complete form, earning it the nickname “living museum.”
Maison Pfister: The Sacred Site That Howl Fans Must See
The Actual Model of Buildings Appearing in the Film
The most important pilgrimage site for fans of ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ is the “Maison Pfister.” This building was constructed in 1537 as a Renaissance-style mansion, built by Louis Schérer, a hat manufacturer. It was constructed by a merchant from Besançon who made his fortune from the Liévre Valley silver mines, as a building symbolizing his wealth.
The greatest feature of Maison Pfister is the beautiful frescoes on the second floor and the octagonal tower-shaped bay window placed at the corner. The walls are decorated with intricate murals depicting characters from the Old and New Testaments and emperors of the Holy Roman Empire, telling of the high artistry of the 16th century.
Comparison with Scenes from the Film
In the opening scene of ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ when Howl and Sophie take a flight through the air, the building that appears is Maison Pfister. The triangular roof, the shape of the bay window, the decorative patterns on the walls—all features depicted in the film match Maison Pfister remarkably.
For fans who have watched the film many times, the moment of seeing Maison Pfister in person would be one of emotion: “This is exactly the building!” It is clear that Director Miyazaki and the Studio Ghibli staff carefully observed this building and faithfully incorporated it into the film. Currently, it is a daily sight to see Japanese tourists taking commemorative photos in front of this building.
Access to Maison Pfister and Photography Spots
Maison Pfister is located near the center of Colmar’s old town, on Rue des Marchands. It is approximately a 15-minute walk from Colmar Station and about 5 minutes on foot from Unterlinden Square, the center of the old town.
The best photography spot is a position slightly away from the front of the building. By changing angles during shooting, the octagonal bay window and the frescoes on the walls can be captured more beautifully. The time in the morning when soft light illuminates the building is particularly recommended. Since the building is currently privately owned, interior visits are not possible, but enjoying the exterior is thoroughly worthwhile.
The Charming Street Scenery of Colmar’s Old Town
The Medieval Landscape Woven by Timber-Framed Houses
The greatest charm of Colmar is undoubtedly the medieval timber-framing (colombage) architecture that continues from the Middle Ages. The sight of colorful timber-framed houses lined up creates a sensation as if one has wandered into a fairy tale world.
Timber-framing architecture is a building style that developed in the Alsatian region from the 15th to 17th centuries. It is characterized by exposing the timber frame, with gaps filled by plaster or brick, and the pattern of timber-framing varies by era. In Colmar, these buildings are preserved in excellent condition, forming a street layout like a textbook of architectural history.
Beautiful Buildings Colored by Pastel Colors
What makes Colmar’s buildings particularly striking is their pastel-colored facades. Buildings painted in soft tones of pale pink, yellow, blue, and green color the streets, creating the whimsical world view seen in Studio Ghibli works in actual reality.
These colors are not merely decorative but historically indicated the occupation or owner of the building. For example, butchers were red, bakers yellow, and so on. Currently, strict regulations on building painting are in place to preserve the historical landscape, maintaining the harmony of the entire city.
The Canal Scenery of Little Venice District
The most romantic area in Colmar is the district called “Petite Venise” (Little Venice). Timber-framed houses line the Roschbach River, and the reflection of buildings in the canal creates a beautiful landscape.
This district was once home to fishermen, boatmen, and tanners, and buildings facing the water have small balconies and flower-decorated window sills. From spring through summer, flowers such as geraniums and petunias decorate the buildings, creating an even more beautiful scene. Visitors can stroll along the canal path or participate in boat tours to view the street layout from the water.
The Major Tourist Attractions of Colmar
Unterlinden Museum
A must-see for visitors to Colmar is the Unterlinden Museum (Musée Unterlinden). This museum, in a renovated 13th-century Dominican convent, houses artworks from the Middle Ages to modern times.
Particularly famous is the “Isenheim Altarpiece” by 16th-century painter Matthias Grünewald. This work is known worldwide as an important religious painting, and art enthusiasts from around the world visit just to see it. Medieval Alsatian sculptures, paintings, and archaeological artifacts are also displayed, allowing visitors to deeply understand this region’s culture and history.
Saint-Martin Church
Located in the center of Colmar’s old town, Saint-Martin Church (Collégiale Saint-Martin) is a Gothic-style church constructed from the 13th to 14th centuries. Also called “Colmar Cathedral,” it serves as a landmark for the city.
The exterior is characterized by red and green roof tiles, and the interior stained glass windows are beautiful, evaluating it as a masterpiece of medieval religious architecture. From the tall tower, one can view the entire old town, enjoying a complete panorama of the densely packed timber-framed houses. Around the church is a former market square, where restaurants and cafés line the streets, making it a lively area today.
Old Customs House (Koïfhus)
The Old Customs House (Koïfhus), constructed in 1480, historically functioned as the center of commerce in the Alsatian region. It is characterized by multicolored roof tiles in the Burgundian style and serves as one of Colmar’s important historical buildings.
The first floor of the building was used for merchandise storage and trading, while the second floor hosted important meetings. Currently used as an exhibition space, limited-time events and exhibitions are held here. In the square in front of the building, seasonal events including Christmas markets are held, drawing crowds of locals and tourists.
House of Heads (Maison des Têtes)
The “House of Heads (Maison des Têtes),” built in 1609, is a luxurious Renaissance-style building with 106 facial sculptures carved onto its exterior walls, from which it takes its name. These sculptures express various human expressions and emotions, demonstrating the high level of sculpting technique of the time.
At the corner of the building stands a statue of “the Cooper” by French sculptor Bartholdi (creator of the Statue of Liberty). Currently, the first floor operates as a restaurant, allowing visitors to enjoy dining in the historical building. One can experience tasting traditional Alsatian cuisine while immersed in the medieval atmosphere.
Access to Colmar and Practical Tourist Information
Access Methods from Paris
From Paris to Colmar, using TGV (French high-speed rail) is the most convenient method. A direct train from Paris Est Station (Gare de l’Est) takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, and with a transfer in Strasbourg, the journey takes about 3 hours.
Fares vary depending on the season and booking timing, but early reservations can secure tickets from around 30 euros, with normal fares ranging from 50-80 euros. Advance reservation through SNCF (French National Railway) official website or app is recommended. There is also the option of flying from Paris to Strasbourg and then traveling to Colmar by train.
Day Trip Tourism from Strasbourg
Many travelers stay in Strasbourg, the central city of the Alsatian region, and make a day trip to Colmar. From Strasbourg to Colmar by TER (regional train) takes approximately 30 minutes, with fares around 15 euros one way.
Visiting all of Colmar’s major tourist attractions in a day is entirely possible, but for those wishing to slowly enjoy the city’s atmosphere, staying overnight in Colmar is recommended. The street layout at dusk and early morning quiet has an especially beautiful charm not achievable on a day trip.
Optimal Times to Visit
Colmar can be visited year-round, with different attractions in each season.
Spring (April to June) is one of the most beautiful seasons, with flowers decorating the city. Particularly from May through June, geraniums bloom on building balconies and window sills, creating a striking contrast between pastel-colored buildings and flowers. The temperature is also comfortable, making it the most suitable season for tourism.
Summer (July to August) is the peak tourism season. With stable weather and long daylight hours, visitors can enjoy tourism at leisure. However, tourists are numerous, and hotels and restaurants are crowded. Early reservations are essential.
Autumn (September to November) is the wine harvest season in the Alsatian region. Harvest festivals are held along nearby wine roads, allowing visitors to enjoy new wines. The fall foliage is also beautiful, allowing tourism in a calm atmosphere.
Winter (December to February) is especially recommended for the Christmas season. Colmar’s Christmas market boasts one of the largest scales and beauty in the Alsatian region. The timber-framed street layout illuminated by Christmas lights is truly a winter fairy tale world.
Time Required for Tourism
Colmar’s old town is relatively compact, with major tourist attractions accessible on foot. Visiting only Maison Pfister, Little Venice, main churches and squares can be done in approximately 3-4 hours.
However, for thorough museum visits, leisurely café breaks, or shopping, a full day is recommended. Additionally, for those wishing to visit nearby wine roads or surrounding villages, a 2-3 day stay is ideal.
Alsatian Cuisine and Gourmet Experience
Traditional Alsatian Cuisine
When visiting Colmar, be sure to taste the traditional cuisine of the Alsatian region. You can enjoy unique dishes where French and German food cultures have merged.
Choucroute is one of the representative dishes of Alsace. It features fermented cabbage (sauerkraut) served with sausage, pork, bacon, and other meats, simmered in white wine. Full of volume, it is particularly recommended during cold seasons.
Tarte Flambée is a thin pizza-like crust topped with cream cheese, onion, and bacon, then baked. Called “Flammkuchen” in Alsatian dialect, it is characterized by a crispy texture and savory flavor.
Baeckeoffe is a dish where lamb, pork, and beef are marinated with vegetables in white wine and slowly simmered in an earthenware pot. It derives its name from the fact that it was historically cooked using leftover heat from bakery ovens.
The Appeal of Alsatian Wine
The Alsatian region is one of France’s representative white wine producing areas. Colmar is located at the center of the “Alsatian Wine Road,” with numerous wineries scattered in the surrounding area.
The characteristic of Alsatian wine is that the grape variety name becomes the wine name. Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Muscat—each possesses distinctive aromas and flavors. In particular, Riesling is the representative variety of Alsace, characterized by a fruity and refreshing taste.
Within Colmar city, numerous wine bars and shops allow for wine tasting. Wine tours visiting surrounding wineries are also popular.
Recommended Restaurants and Cafés
Colmar offers a variety of dining establishments, from traditional Alsatian restaurants to modern bistros.
Restaurants utilizing timber-framed buildings in the old town allow diners to enjoy meals in a historical atmosphere. In particular, restaurants in the Little Venice district are popular for their terrace seating along the canal, offering a romantic setting.
Cafés offer traditional Alsatian baked goods such as “Kougelhopf” and tarts alongside coffee or hot chocolate. Afternoon tea time in particular is when locals relax at cafés, offering a leisurely atmosphere.
Attractions Around Colmar
Villages Along the Alsatian Wine Road
Based in Colmar, visitors can explore beautiful villages along the Alsatian Wine Road. These villages also preserve timber-framed buildings and each possesses unique charm.
Eguisheim is one of “the most beautiful villages in France,” featuring a circular village layout. About a 10-minute drive from Colmar, the village is arranged in concentric circles around a central castle. Colorful timber-framed houses and flower-decorated streets are beautiful, and many wine producers operate here.
Riquewihr is a village preserving the 16th-century appearance almost completely, with strong medieval atmosphere remaining within castle walls. Located approximately 15 kilometers north of Colmar, about a 20-minute drive, it features wine shops and souvenir stores popular with tourists.
Kaysersberg is known as the birthplace of Albert Schweitzer. Medieval castle ruins stand on a hill overlooking the village. A stone bridge and timber-framed houses create a beautiful landscape in harmony.
Combined Tourism with Strasbourg
Strasbourg, the regional capital of Alsace, is worth visiting in combination with Colmar. While an international city hosting the European Parliament, the old town “Grand Rue” is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, with numerous historical structures remaining.
Strasbourg Cathedral is known as a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with intricate sculpture and beautiful stained glass windows as highlights. Additionally, the “Petite France” district, with timber-framed houses lining the canal, possesses a different charm from Colmar.
Strasbourg’s Christmas market, France’s oldest and largest, attracts visitors from around the world in December. Visiting both Colmar’s and Strasbourg’s Christmas markets allows one to fully enjoy the Alsatian Christmas atmosphere.
Cultural Connections Between Colmar and Ghibli Works
Director Hayao Miyazaki’s Interest in Europe
Director Hayao Miyazaki has maintained a deep interest in European culture and architecture over many years. Works such as ‘Porco Rosso,’ featuring the Adriatic coast of Italy, and ‘Kiki’s Delivery Service,’ inspired by Stockholm, Sweden and Dubrovnik, Croatia, are among numerous works drawing inspiration from actual locations.
In ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ faithfully recreating the atmosphere of medieval European cities was given priority. Colmar was selected as the ideal location for this purpose. The dense timber-framed architecture, cobblestone paths, and canal-side scenery—all elements of medieval Europe concentrated in Colmar—played an important role in shaping the film’s worldview.
Pilgrimage of Ghibli Fans to Sacred Sites
Since the release of ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ Colmar has become an important sacred site for Japanese Ghibli fans. In particular, it is a daily sight to see Japanese tourists photographing Maison Pfister from the same angles as scenes in the film.
The local Colmar city administration and tourism board welcome this interest from Japan, with Japanese-language brochures available at visitor information centers. Some hotels and restaurants also provide services for Japanese tourists.
For Ghibli fans, visiting Colmar is not mere tourism but a special experience of actually stepping into the world of their beloved work. The emotion of discovering that landscapes seen in the film actually exist, along with their beauty, leaves a deep impression on many visitors.
Connection with Beauty and the Beast
Interestingly, Colmar is also known as the model for one of the settings in the Disney film ‘Beauty and the Beast.’ Disney animators are said to have visited this city and used it as reference for film production.
In this way, Colmar has become a particularly meaningful place for animation fans as a city that has inspired multiple animated works. The unique atmosphere where French and German cultures merge, along with its fairy-tale-like beautiful street layout, continues to stimulate the imagination of creators.
Practical Advice for Colmar Tourism
How to Choose Accommodations
Colmar offers various types of accommodations. Hotels renovated from timber-framed buildings in the old town allow stays in a historical atmosphere. These hotels are themselves tourist attractions, recommended for those seeking a special experience.
Modern hotel chains are available near the station and in the new town, offering comfortable stays at relatively reasonable prices. Vacation rentals and guesthouses are also increasing, suitable for those wishing to interact with local residents.
Accommodations, particularly during the Christmas season and summer high season, fill up quickly, requiring reservations months in advance. Staying in the old town allows enjoyment of illuminated street layouts at night and early morning strolls through quiet streets.
Efficient Tourism Route
While Colmar’s old town is walkable, an optimal route for efficient touring exists.
First, head to Unterlinden Square, the center of the old town, from Colmar Station or your accommodation. After viewing the Unterlinden Museum, visit Saint-Martin Church and the Old Customs House. Next, walk along Rue des Marchands to Maison Pfister, taking time for photography. Follow this by viewing the House of Heads and heading to the Little Venice district. Stroll along the canal, and boat tour participation is also recommended. Lunch can be enjoyed at Little Venice district restaurants overlooking the canal.
In the afternoon, freely explore the old town’s side streets, visiting shops and cafés. At dusk, revisit Maison Pfister and major sites to enjoy the landscape in different light.
Souvenirs and Shopping
Colmar offers unique Alsatian souvenirs. The most popular are locally produced wines. Wine shops allow tasting while selecting, with expert staff offering recommendations matching preferences.
Traditional “Alsatian pottery” is also a popular souvenir. Characterized by colorful flower patterns, it is practical as dishes and kitchenware. Gingham toys and figurines of storks dressed in traditional Alsatian clothing are also popular souvenirs symbolizing the region.
Common food items include foie gras, mustard, gingerbread (pain d’épices), and Kougelhopf molds. Particularly during the Christmas season, limited-edition Christmas ornaments and candles are abundantly available.
Language and Cultural Sensitivity
French is the official language in Colmar, but English is relatively understood in tourist areas. However, using basic French greetings (bonjour, merci) creates a positive impression with locals.
The Alsatian region has its own dialect “Alsatian language,” still used particularly among elderly residents. This is a language close to German, with its influence visible in place names and dish names.
In restaurants, following French custom, greet upon seating, use “s’il vous plaît” (please) when ordering, and say “merci” (thank you) after the meal. Tipping is not obligatory but leaving 5-10% when service has been good is appreciated.
Conclusion: Experiencing the Ghibli World in Colmar
Colmar in the Alsatian region of France holds special meaning for Ghibli fans as the city that served as the model for ‘Howl’s Moving Castle.’ This city, which Director Hayao Miyazaki actually visited and drew inspiration from for film production, has miraculously preserved its beautiful medieval street layout, truly earning the description of a “living fairy tale world.”
Timber-framed architecture including Maison Pfister, houses decorated in pastel colors, and romantic scenery along the canal offer the emotion of discovering that the landscape seen in film actually exists. Gourmet experiences unique to this region, including Alsatian cuisine and wine, are also major attractions of the journey.
The ease of access—approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from Paris—is another appeal. Combined with Strasbourg and villages along the Alsatian Wine Road, one can enjoy a more enriching Alsatian journey.
For fans of ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ and all travelers who love beautiful street layouts, Colmar is a special place well worth visiting. The experience of wandering into the film’s world and the emotion of standing in that actual location will become lifelong memories.
On your next French trip, be sure to visit Colmar to actually experience the Ghibli world. Walking the cobblestone paths, viewing timber-framed buildings, and experiencing Alsatian culture will deepen your understanding and affection for ‘Howl’s Moving Castle.’
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