[2025 Nagakute Attraction] Travel Guide for Satsuki and Mei's House (Updated May)

Getting There - take the Higashimaya Line from Nagoya Station to Fujigaoka Station then change to the Linimo till the Ai-Chikyuhaku-Kinen-Koen Station and take a nice walk into the Expo. Attractions - Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park Hotels - none Food & Restaurants - some cafes/restaurants around but very limited choices. it’s a big area so do expect a lot of walking even to find food. Shopping - not many shopping, just souvenir shops selling some Totoro memorabilia and normal souvenir trinkets. Ticket - can be purchased at Family Mart’s kiosk machine. it does seem a little inconvenient to get to but it really worth the trip! we spent half a day there, the travel is quite a journey but you do have a nice view along the way plus the Linimo line is really cool! the very first and only magnetic line/train in the world, you can’t even feel it turn at the bends and it’s known to let you walk without swaying or falling! we tried it and it was so mind blowing, plus it was so smooth we fell asleep easily on the way back LOL the expo is HUGE, we almost got lost walking in but the view was so amazing that it didn’t matter where we were walking. there is a water park there too but it was closed when we went cause it was winter. there is also a tram to take if you don’t want to walk much and it brings you around the whole expo. the house itself needs tickets purchased earlier as it is a tour house exhibition/attraction. you get to see little Easter eggs from the movie, and even have a “find the object” game. tour guide will explain everything and is very friendly, even help us take pictures. you get more than enough time to look around, take lots of photos and play the game. 100% recommend visiting if you ever get the chance. especially if you are an avid fan of Studio Ghibli :) #wintergetaway #japan #studioghibli

Stepping into Ghibli Park is like wandering into a living storybook. Unlike traditional theme parks, this Aichi-based wonderland invites you to slow down, observe, and let Hayao Miyazaki’s worlds unfold around you. But to truly capture its magic, you’ll need a keen eye—here are the secrets you won’t want to miss. ### **1. Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse: A Treasure Trove of Easter Eggs** *Films Featured: Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, Ponyo* - **Hidden Props**: Dive into the “Maze of Wander” and spot subtle nods like the tiny soot sprites (Susuwatari) hiding in corners or the iconic turnip spirit from *Spirited Away*. - **Interactive Surprises**: Turn cranks on miniature sets to activate whimsical animations, like Ponyo’s fish friends swimming across a wall. - **Secret Room**: Tucked away is a gallery of concept art from lesser-known films like *Ocean Waves*—perfect for deep-cut fans. ### **2. Hill of Youth: Whispers of Crossovers** *Films Featured: Whisper of the Heart, The Cat Returns* - **Antique Shop Secrets**: Inside Shizuku’s favorite haunt, find the “Cat Bureau” sign—a cheeky reference to Baron from *The Cat Returns*. - **Elevator Adventure**: The green elevator from *Howl’s Moving Castle* isn’t just for photos. Listen closely—its creaks mimic the film’s soundtrack. ### **3. Dondoko Forest: Nature’s Hidden Charm** *Films Featured: My Neighbor Totoro* - **Soot Sprite Hunt**: Along the forest path, tiny charcoal critters peek from tree hollows. - **Totoro’s Home**: Climb the giant Totoro statue early morning or at dusk for softer crowds and golden-hour photos. ### **4. Mononoke’s Village: Spirits in the Trees** *Films Featured: Princess Mononoke* - **Kodama Guardians**: Spot the white, bobble-headed spirits nestled in the forest. They’re easiest to find near the replica Iron Town gates. - **Authentic Textures**: Touch the weathered wood and rusted metal—crafted to mirror the film’s post-industrial aesthetic. ### **5. Valley of the Witches: Sensory Delights** *Films Featured: Kiki’s Delivery Service, Howl’s Moving Castle* - **Bakery Aromas**: Follow your nose to Kiki’s bakery, where the scent of fresh bread wafts through the air. - **Moving Castle Details**: Howl’s door features a dial with symbols from the film—spin it to see if you can unlock a hidden scene! ### **Pro Tips for the Curious Explorer** - **Slow Down**: Ghibli’s magic is in the details—look up at ceilings, down at drains, and behind doors. - **Chat with Staff**: Many wear subtle Ghibli pins and love sharing trivia. Ask about their favorite secrets! - **Seasonal Shifts**: Visit in autumn for *Totoro*-inspired golden leaves or spring when cherry blossoms frame the Hill of Youth. - **Photography Wisdom**: Some areas restrict photos, but allowed spots (like Satsuki and Mei’s house) are wor

#FuriTabi If you look under the outside of Satsuki and Mei's house, you can see Totoro's remains!!! Please try looking for it too☺️