- Japanese name: スタジオジブリ (Sutajio Jiburi)
- Common name: Ghibli
- Date of establishment: June 15, 1985
- Number of movies: 22
- Fun fact: Spirited Away is the only non-English film to win the Oscar for Best Animated Feature
WHAT IS STUDIO GHIBLI?
Studio Ghibli is a Japanese animation studio in Tokyo that started in 1985. It was founded by directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, along with producer Toshio Suzuki. They make lots of notable animated movies, and you might know Totoro from their logo in the movie “My Neighbor Totoro.”
Studio Ghibli Japan is the magical team behind some of the best animated stories! Their films like “Spirited Away,” “Howl’s Moving Castle,” and “Kiki’s Delivery Service” are really popular and have won many awards. Plus, They don’t just make movies; they’ve also worked on TV commercials and short films.
HOW TO PRONOUNCE GHIBLI
Okay, let’s make it simple! The word is “Ghibli,” and while many people mispronounce it as “gib-li” with a hard g sound as in gift, it’s actually pronounced with a “j” sound, like “jib-li.” In Japanese, they say it like “ji-bu-ri,” so you can go with it if you want to sound a bit more Japanese!
THE NAME: WHAT DOES GHIBLI STAND FOR?
The name "Ghibli" comes from the Arabic word meaning hot desert wind. Hayao Miyazaki, who loves airplanes, got this word from an Italian plane used during World War II. He decided to use this name for his studio because he wanted Ghibli to be a new wind in the world of Japanese animation.
WHO OWNS STUDIO GHIBLI?
Artist Hayao Miyazaki has his name tied to Studio Ghibli since he was the founder of the company. Currently, the animation studio is owned by Nippon Television. Co-founder Toshio Suzuki is the chairman, Hiroyuki Fukuda is the president, and Hayao Miyazaki is the honorary chairman.
WHAT IS THE GENRE OF STUDIO GHIBLI?
Studio Ghibli creates animated films that aren’t just one genre. While their movies often fall into the animated fantasy category, they mix in elements of drama, adventure, romance, and coming-of-age themes. You’ll get a taste of everything when you watch their movies!
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ANIME AND GHIBLI?
Studio Ghibli makes animated movies in Japan, so they're called anime. But, these movies are different from typical anime. Ghibli has a unique art style that looks more like old European animation. They use detailed pictures and tell simple, interesting stories mostly about life, the environment, and personal challenges.
But more than the animation, what sets Ghibli apart is how they blend fantasy with realistic elements in their storytelling. Even though the story is magical and animated, the animators add a touch of reality. This makes the viewers feel like the world and its characters are real.
WHY IS STUDIO GHIBLI SPECIAL?
Most animation studios make shows for TV to make money regularly, but Ghibli focuses on making long movies just for theaters. This is unique because movies can be risky and not always make a lot of money. Other animation studios in Japan do TV and sometimes make movies based on popular TV shows.
But Ghibli wanted to create something special—realistic, top-quality animation that captures human feelings and shows a slice of life. TV won’t let them do that with its tight budget and schedule. So, Ghibli put all their energy into each movie, paying attention to every little detail.
The unique art style, attention to detail, magical music, and immersive storytelling make characters and stories feel real. Even the tiny details in every scene are important. Did you know that Hayao Miyazaki goes on field trips to real places to get inspiration? That’s why you’ll often see places in Japan that remind you of a scene from a Studio Ghibli film.
They've kept this special way of working for more than 30 years, making both successful movies and managing the studio well, thanks to their talent and hard work. That's what makes Ghibli one of a kind!
HOW MANY STUDIO GHIBLI MOVIES ARE OUT THERE?
Since 1985, Studio Ghibli has created 23 fantastic feature films. While some may argue that there are actually 25 movies, the two of them – “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” and “Grave of the Fireflies” – were produced by different companies. So, even if Ghibli designed them, the animation studio doesn’t have the distribution rights for these films.
WHAT MOVIES DID STUDIO GHIBLI MAKE?
Studio Ghibli’s enchanting stories have left a mark in Japan and across different countries. These include classics like "My Neighbor Totoro," where a magical forest spirit befriends two sisters, and "Spirited Away," a captivating tale of a young girl in a mysterious world.
Other iconic films include "Princess Mononoke," an epic journey in a realm filled with gods and demons, and "Howl's Moving Castle," an adventure featuring a magical, wandering castle. There’s also the heartwarming "Kiki's Delivery Service" which follows a young witch discovering her place in the world, and a lot more!
WHAT IS THE OLDEST GHIBLI FILM?
The oldest Studio Ghibli film is called “Laputa: Castle in the Sky.” It came out in 1986 and it’s the first movie that’s both designed and produced by Ghibli. This movie follows the story of a young girl named Sheeta who owns a magical crystal. The film set the stage for all the awesome Ghibli films we love.
WHERE TO WATCH STUDIO GHIBLI MOVIES
Good news! You can watch Studio Ghibli movies on different streaming platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, and Hulu, depending on where you live. However, most of the Studio Ghibli available are popular ones, so if you’re interested in watching the underrated Ghibli movies, you may want to look at other streaming sites online.
But if you’re in Japan, there’s no subscription service available for Studio Ghibli movies. So, your best option is to rent or buy DVDs. Japan has a lot of rental video stores you can visit like Tsutaya and Video Market.
LOTS OF GHIBLI SPECIALS
Speaking of DVDs, did you know that Walt Disney Japan released a collection of all the short films made by Studio Ghibli from 1992 to 2016? It’s called “Lots of Ghibli Special Short-Short” and it’s available on DVD and Blu-ray! This collection also features commercials Ghibli did with other brands like House Foods and Asahi. If you’re a Ghibli collector, this is a must-have!
STUDIO GHIBLI FEST
Another way for you to watch Studio Ghibli movies is through the Studio Ghibli Fest! This is a special annual event that’s been held since 2017 and shows old Ghibli movies in Japanese and American theaters. The festival often includes popular titles and it's a chance for fans to rewatch Studio Ghibli films in a movie theater.
THE BOY AND THE HERON
Just when everyone thought Hayao Miyazaki had retired, he gave a really special surprise! Studio Ghibli released their latest movie, “The Boy and the Heron.” This is an enchanting story of a 12-year-old boy who had to deal with loss and discover a new life for himself.
The movie’s Japanese title is Kimitachi wa Dō Ikiru ka (君たちはどう生きるか) which translates to, “How Do You Live?” This is the central question that’s asked in the whole story. Some would say that it’s like a summary of Miyazaki’s life, art, and career.
HOW POPULAR IS GHIBLI?
Studio Ghibli is Japan’s animation superstar. Of the top 10 highest-grossing movies in Japan, five came from Studio Ghibli! They’re so popular that they even have a Ghibli museum in Tokyo and a Studio Ghibli theme park in Nagoya.
Ghibli is famous not just in Japan but everywhere. Their movies “Spirited Away” and “My Neighbor Totoro” are a big hit and even won awards. Fans worldwide love collecting Studio Ghibli goodies with their favorite characters like Totoro and No-Face.
POPULAR GHIBLI CHARACTERS
The likable and relatable characters from Studio Ghibli movies play a huge part in their success. Let’s see the most popular Ghibli characters!
Totoro (My Neighbor Totoro)
The big Totoro is a giant, furry forest spirit who looks like a combination of a cat and an owl. In the movie, it befriends two sisters. This character was so popular and iconic that it became Studio Ghibli’s mascot.
No-Face (Spirited Away)
No-Face is both mysterious and a bit creepy. it’s a lonely spirit who’s obsessed with the main protagonist Chihiro. It also symbolizes the consequences of being greedy.
Chihiro Ogino (Spirited Away)
Spirited Away follows the story of a brave 10-year-old girl named Chihiro. She was trapped in a mysterious world of spirits and had to go through different challenges to escape and save her parents.
Kiki (Kiki’s Delivery Service)
A young witch in training, Kiki is known for her adventurous spirit and determination. As part of tradition, she has to fly away from her parents and live on her own.
Jiji (Kiki’s Delivery Service)
Jiji is Kiki’s black cat who stands out as the funniest Ghibli character. It’s a loyal companion to Kiki and gives humor throughout their adventures.
Catbus (My Neighbor Totoro)
As the name suggests, Catbus is a cat who also looks like a bus. Some fans think that this character is similar to the Cheshire cat from “Alice in Wonderland.”
Howl Jenkins Pendragon (Howl’s Moving Castle)
Howl is a charming and powerful wizard. He’s stubborn and confident and sometimes does not care about his surroundings.
Princess Mononoke (Princess Mononoke)
Also known as San, Princess Mononoke is a fierce and independent character who was raised by the wolves.
Haku (Spirited Away)
Haku is a dragon who is disguised as a human boy. He serves Yubaba while secretly helping Chihiro.
Porco Rosso (Porco Rosso)
Porco Rosso is a skilled pilot who was cursed to look like a pig. He’s a unique character known for his wit and charm.
STUDIO GHIBLI EXHIBITS
Ghibli fans also have a chance to experience the behind-the-scenes magic of Studio Ghibli through exhibitions! These exhibits often feature original artwork, sketches, and other artifacts from Ghibli movies. They’re usually held in spaces like Roponggi’s Tokyo City View and Kanda Shrine.
GHIBLI AT ACE HOTEL KYOTO
Even Ace Hotel in Kyoto joined the fun when they had a limited-time offer for Ghibli exhibition visitors! They prepared a suite where guests can view Toshio Suzuki’s books that are not available to the general public. The room is also decorated with Studio Ghibli movie posters. This is a great way to get deeply drawn into the world of Ghibli.
VISIT THE GHIBLI MUSEUM!
One of the most popular Studio Ghibli-themed places in Japan is the Ghibli Museum located in Mitaka, Tokyo. It’s a colorful mansion with grass walls, winding staircases, and tiny doors! Inside, there are exhibits from all your favorite Ghibli movies. When you’re done with the tour, you can take a quick break at the rooftop garden and a cafe with a Ghibli-inspired menu.
Ghibli Museum is perfect for a day trip but you have to book at least one month in advance on their website because tickets sell out fast. Another tip, you can’t take pictures inside the museum, but that’s what makes the place even more exciting!
STUDIO GHIBLI THEME PARK
In 2022, the Studio Ghibli Theme Park opened in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. It’s a dream come true for Ghibli fans as they visit areas such as the Hill of Youth which features an observation tower and doubles as the main gate. There’s also the Dondoko Forest as inspired by the movie, “My Neighbor Totoro.” Here, you can visit Satsuki and Mei’s house.
Visitors can also go to Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse, an indoor area featuring shops, restaurants, exhibitions, and a small theater! You can explore an interactive area with oversized things that make you feel like you’re in Arrietty’s world. There’s also a playground inspired by My Neighbor Totoro, and it even has the Catbus. This place is a Studio Ghibli Wonderland!
GHIBLI-INSPIRED PLACES TO VISIT IN JAPAN
Ticket slots for the Studio Ghibli Theme Park can be really hard to secure, but not to worry! There are lots of places in Japan where you can feel like visiting the world of Ghibli movies. For example, you can take a picture of the Ghibli Clock displayed in front of Nippon TV’s headquarters in Shiodome, Tokyo.
Other places you can visit are the Totoro Forest in Saitama, the Totoro Bus Stop in Saiki, and the lifesize Totoro statue in Miyazaki. There’s also a tiny town in Kyushu called Yufuin Floral Village where you can see Kiki’s Bakery, a bakeshop inspired by the movie, “Kiki’s Delivery Service.”
WHERE TO ENJOY GHIBLI FOOD
In Japan, you can enjoy Studio Ghibli movies not only on the big screen but also on the dining table! Noodles & Shaved Ice Dogyan in Osaka has Ghibli-themed shaved ice desserts. If you’re a fan of Totoro, you should check out Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory in Tokyo. They make adorable Totoro-shaped cream puffs!
COOKING WITH GHIBLI
If you love cooking, you can try the cookbook inspired by Studio Ghibli’s 3D movie “Earwig and the Witch!” This book has easy recipes for British meals and yummy desserts from the movie such as Earwig’s Pretzels and Boy Scout Fried Toast.
Making tasty food inspired by Ghibli movies also sounds like a great idea! The Japanese non-profit organization Filmeet hosted an event where participants got to cook and taste Ghibli-inspired food. The best part is that it’s all for a good cause. All the profits from the event went to charity.
DRESS UP IN GHIBLI STYLE
Studio Ghibli is so popular that some cool clothing brands crafted Ghibli-inspired designs for fans. In Japan, you have Benelic GBL, Familiar, and Harajuku Collective, all bringing Ghibli vibes to their designs.
Internationally, Spanish luxury fashion house LOEWE has a collection inspired by Ghibli’s “Howl’s Moving Castle” and denim brand Levi’s has the “Princess Mononoke” collection. Uniqlo, a popular Japanese brand, also has comfy Ghibli clothes. These brands make it easy for fans around the world to wear clothes that celebrate Studio Ghibli!
STUDIO GHIBLI COLLABORATIONS
Studio Ghibli has also teamed up with various brands to sprinkle a bit of magic into everyday items. Steamcream features facial moisturizers in adorable tin packaging with Ghibli characters. Lupicia Tea has introduced special tea collections inspired by Studio Ghibli movies, making tea time more enchanting!
Additionally, Studio Ghibli partnered with Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten, a popular store in Japan that sells hand-crafted goodies. For the first collab, they focused on the movie, “My Neighbor Totoro,” and released products inspired by Totoro’s forest. Fans can buy hand-carved dolls, acorn plates, flower vases, and even dyed T-shirts!
STUDIO GHIBLI X STAR WARS
To show their friendship, Lucasfilm and Studio Ghibli collaborated to create a short film! “Zen - Grogu and the Dust Bunnies” features the cute character Grogu from Star Wars, also known as Baby Yoda. He embarks on an adventure with the charming Dust Bunnies from Studio Ghibli’s magical world.
Fans can watch this short film on Disney+. This is also a confirmation of Ghibli’s long friendship with Walt Disney Studios. Zen - Grogu and the Dust Bunnies definitely capture the charm of different animation studios!
IS THERE A GHIBLI AND PIXAR COLLAB?
In 2021, Studio Ghibli’s official Twitter account posted an interesting photo of the popular bus stop movie poster from My Neighbor Totoro. But instead of a girl standing under the red umbrella, it shows Sulley and Mike from the Pixar movie “Monsters, Inc.”
This image sparked lots of fan theories about a collaboration between the two big animation studios! Sadly, there’s no new film in the making from these two. It seems that the image was just to show the friendship between them, similar to Totoro’s cameo in the movie “Toy Story 3.”
STUDIO GHIBLI GOODIES
Starting your Studio Ghibli collection won’t be a problem because there’s a lot of Ghibli merchandise available! In Japan, Donguri Kyowakoku is the place to go. It’s the official shop for Ghibli goodies. You can find it in different cities like Tokyo and Osaka.
But don’t worry if you’re not in Japan! You can also get Studio Ghibli products all over the world. Many online stores have a wide selection of Ghibli merchandise. Check out the Studio Ghibli collection on Blippo! There are Studio Ghibli travel accessories, Totoro plushies, Kiki’s Delivery Service bento boxes, and lots more!
