By Experience JAPAN
This video takes viewers into the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, one of Tokyo’s most unique cultural destinations. Situated in western Tokyo, this open-air museum preserves and exhibits historically important buildings from the Edo period through the early Shōwa era. Notably, the site houses several locations that inspired Studio Ghibli’s renowned film ‘Spirited Away,’ providing fans and architecture enthusiasts with an opportunity to see the real-world places that contributed to the movie’s fantastical settings.
The Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum features a carefully curated collection of restored homes, shops, baths, and public buildings. Each structure tells a story about Tokyo’s transformation, offering a glimpse into Japanese everyday life across different periods. Within these grounds, visitors can recognize buildings and atmospheres that closely resemble scenes from Ghibli films, especially the mysterious bathhouse and meandering alleys of ‘Spirited Away.’ This connection has made the museum a pilgrimage site for Ghibli fans and culture lovers alike.
The museum is easily accessible and offers a peaceful park-like setting, ideal for exploration. Situated in Koganei Park, it is a highly recommended spot for those interested in traditional architecture, Japanese history, or film locations tied to Studio Ghibli. Entry fees vary by age, and updated details are available on the museum’s website. If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum makes for a culturally rich and cinematic addition to your itinerary.