The Ghibli Museum, located in Mitaka, Tokyo, operates exclusively on a reservation basis. Without prior reservation, even if you are nearby, you won’t be able to enter. Despite being entirely reservation-based, getting tickets can be as competitive as enrolling in a class, with reservations quickly filling up once the booking window opens.
Methods for Reserving Tickets to the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo:
- Reservation through the Ghibli Museum Official Website:
- This is the most straightforward and commonly used method.
- The official website opens reservations one month in advance, starting at 10 a.m. on the 10th of each month for the following month. For example, if you plan to visit the museum in March, you can start reserving on February 10th at 10 a.m.
- Due to the high demand, it’s crucial to access the website right when the reservations open.
- Steps for Reserving Tickets on the Official Website:
- Access the Ghibli Studio Reservation Page (English).
- Click “Ticket Details” to select the desired date and time.
- Click “Admission” and proceed to enter personal information, including name, email address, phone number (including country code), Japanese address (use Tokyo or hotel address if unavailable), card details for payment, home address, passport number, and nationality of the representative.
- Admission fee: 1,000 yen for adults.
- Purchase Tickets through HanaTour:
- If reservations through the official website are unsuccessful, consider buying a package deal from a travel agency like HanaTour. These packages often include visits to the Ghibli Museum along with other attractions.
- Buy Tickets at Lawson Convenience Stores:
- Lawson convenience stores offer a ticket purchasing service through a machine called “Loopi.”
- Tickets can also be reserved online via the Lawson website. Even if tickets for foreigners are sold out, they may still be available for Japanese citizens.
Ghibli Museum Information:
- Address: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013, Japan
- Phone: +81 570-055-777
- Website: Ghibli Museum
- Operating Hours: 10:00 – 18:00
- Closed: Every Tuesday
For those planning a trip to Tokyo, especially to the Ghibli Museum, utilizing the above information to reserve tickets in advance is highly recommended.