[Hidden Wonders of Japan] New Ghibli Exhibition on Hayao Miyazaki's Anime World

"Ghibli Park and Ghibli Exhibition" brings the magical world of Ghibli to life.

The exhibition, sponsored by The Sankei Shimbun and others, opened on April 15 at the Kobe City Museum in Chuo Ward, Kobe City. A preview was held on April 14.

Ghibli Exhibition features sketches and models of Ghibli Park by Hayao Miyazaki's son, Goro Miyazaki, who oversaw the park's production. The park is located in Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture.

The meticulously created life-size models of the buildings and props from Hayao Miyazaki's works immerse visitors in Ghibli's fantasy world. Visitors can even take a ride on the cat bus from My Neighbor Totoro. 

Behind the Scenes of Animation

In addition, visitors get a peek at the makings of animation. For example, visuals show the creative process that went into making Earwig and the Witch. In the animated film, 3DCG (3D computer graphics) technology creates smooth natural-looking movements.

But as the process is explained, viewers can recognize that even computer-animated films require a human touch, which has been indispensable since the age of fully hand-drawn animation.

"Ghibli Park and Ghibli Exhibition" is open to the public until June 25 (closed on Mondays except May 1). Visitors must make a reservation and can either book the date and time after purchasing the ticket or buy a ticket with a specified date and time. For details, visit the Kobe City Museum online ticket website. 

RELATED:

• BOOK REVIEW | ‘Sharing a House with the Never Ending Man: 15 Years at Studio Ghibli’ by Steve Alpert
• Welcome the Unexpected in Studio Ghibli's New Movie, ‘Earwig and the Witch’
• Was it an Animator’s Prank? Surprising Cameo in 'Kiki’s Delivery Service'

(Read the related Japanese article)

Author: The Sankei Shimbun