“Ponyo, Ponyo” You may have heard of this tune before when the popular animated movie by Studio Ghibli was screened a decade ago in Singapore. Good news for those who are fans of Hiyao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli, you will be excited to know that a theme park named after it is slated to be opened in 2022 with additional attractions a year later.
Built on the ground of the Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park, this theme park will pay homage to several films by the studio with five themed zones. Here are five areas of the theme park that are being developed conceptually.
Youth Hill Area
The park welcomes visitors to enjoy the nature available coupled along with replicas from several films including that of the Chikyuya’s antique shop from Whispers of the Heart.
Dondoko Forest Area
The forested area brings you back to hometown of the movie My Neighbour Totoro where you can get to view the rustic house that the characters live in. The pre-existing farmhouse from My Neighbour Totoro will also be expanded.
Mononoke’s Village Area
In this village, statues of anime characters from Princess Mononoke will be featured and placed throughout the entire area to pay tribute to their appearance.
Witches’ Valley Area
European themed buildings can be found in this zone which is often part of a common setting among the different films that Studio Ghibli produce.
Ghibli Large Warehouse Area
In this large warehouse area, shops and exhibition rooms are placed across the entire stretch. Cafes and areas catered for play are lined up in this area as well.
This whole theme park seems to bring the entire world of animation alive and it is undoubtedly a wonder to marvel at. Better still, start planning for a trip there to live your anime fantasy!
Studio Ghibli Theme Park: Expo 205 Aichi Commemorative Park area near Nagoya, Central Japan | Website
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