About My Neighbor Totoro
My Neighbor Totoro” is a Japanese animated film directed by Hayao Miyazaki in 1988. The film was produced by Studio Ghibli and is loved not only in Japan but around the world.
The story begins when sisters Satsuki and Mei move to an old house in the countryside due to their father’s job transfer. As the girls adjust to their new surroundings, they meet Totoro, a mysterious being who lives in the forest. Totoro is a giant rabbit-like being that symbolizes the connection between the natural world and the human world.
The theme of this film is coexistence with nature and family ties through everyday scenes and human relationships depicted from the pure perspective of children. The heartwarming story unfolds along with beautiful animation.
The music is another attraction of the film. The music by composer Joe Hisaishi further deepens the world of the story. In particular, songs such as “Sanpo” and “Kaze no Torichi” have left a deep impression on the hearts of those who have seen the film.
My Neighbor Totoro” is loved by a wide range of people, from children to adults, and its appeal has not faded over time. Its depiction of the bond between nature and man, the importance of family, and the pure heart of a child, is both moving and healing to those who watch it.
Known as a masterpiece of Japanese animation, “My Neighbor Totoro” is a work that brings a wealth of emotion and empathy to its viewers. We invite you to immerse yourself in this wonderful world and relive your encounter with Totoro and his growth.
Historical Background
The historical background of “My Neighbor Totoro” is based on the 1950s (1955-1964).
Against the backdrop of the rural scenery and lifestyle of the time, the film depicts interaction with nature and family ties. The historical background gives the story depth and reality, and makes viewers feel the scenery and lifestyle of old Japan. The story features two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move from the city to the countryside, and depicts the scenery and life in the Japanese countryside during that era.
The 1950s was a period of reconstruction after World War II, when Japan’s society and economy were rapidly developing. In the immediate postwar period, food and supplies were in short supply and people’s lives were impoverished, but they were trying desperately to survive. In addition, many people had lost family and friends in the war and were living in a state of sadness and loss.
On the other hand, however, it was also a time of hope. Young people were creating a new society and culture and searching for a new way of life.
Gradually, the economy grew and people’s lives became more affluent.
In the urban areas, rapid growth led to the creation of new industries and cultures, while in the countryside, nature and traditional lifestyles remained in some areas.
The lives of Japanese people today are very different from those of the 1950s. The economy has entered a period of rapid growth, and people’s lives have become richer. Science and technology have also advanced greatly, making our lives more convenient. At the same time, however, various issues have emerged, such as environmental problems and disparities.
The lives of Japanese people today are becoming more diverse. People’s values and lifestyles differ by age, occupation, and region. In addition, the Internet and social networking services have made it easier to connect with people around the world. As a result, it can be said that today’s Japanese are able to lead freer and richer lives.
However, many of today’s Japanese are also stressed and anxious. Many are burdened with a variety of problems, including work, human relations, and economic issues. Long working hours and deaths from overwork are also serious problems.
While the lives of Japanese people today have become affluent and convenient, they also face a variety of challenges. We need to solve these problems and build a better future.
Against this backdrop, “My Neighbor Totoro” depicts two sisters who move from the city to the countryside and grow up in contact with nature. The countryside of the 1950s, old houses, fields, and rivers are the setting for the work, giving the viewer a sense of traditional Japanese scenery and life.
The connection with nature and family ties are emphasized in the story, elements that give viewers a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Some of the Japanese customs and lifestyles of the time are also depicted, allowing viewers to experience the culture and customs of the time.
Here are some places Totoro fans should visit
Ghibli Park: This theme park is located in Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture. It has an area called “Seishun no Oka,” which is a recreation of the world of My Neighbor Totoro.
Sayama Hills: This is a hilly area in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture. This is where the movie “My Neighbor Totoro” was set.
Kotesashi Ekimae Bus Stop: This bus stop is located in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture. It appears in the scene where Satsuki and Mei are waiting for the bus at the beginning of the movie “My Neighbor Totoro”.
Totoro no Hometown Foundation: An organization located in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture. It conducts nature conservation activities in the Sayama Hills, the setting of the movie “My Neighbor Totoro.
Totoro Forest: This forest is located in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture. It is one of the forests where the movie “My Neighbor Totoro” took place.
Kroske’s House
Krosuke’s House is an old house in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture. The house was the model for the movie “My Neighbor Totoro”.
Ghibli Park
Ghibli Park is a theme park that recreates the world of Studio Ghibli’s works. opened in November 2022, the park currently consists of five areas.
Ghibli’s Grand Warehouse: This museum exhibits materials from Ghibli’s works. Visitors can see storyboards, original drawings, props, and other valuable materials from the films.
The Hill of Youth: This area recreates the world of My Neighbor Totoro. Visitors can see places that appeared in the movie, such as Satsuki and May’s house and Totoro Forest. Visitors can also meet and greet the characters from the Ghibli films.
Dondoko Mori: This area recreates the world of the Witch’s Delivery Service. Visitors can see places that appeared in the movie, such as Kiki’s store and Gigi’s house. Visitors can also enjoy the “Witch’s Delivery Service Meris,” an attraction based on the motif of the Witch’s Delivery Service.
Mononoke no Sato: This area recreates the world of Princess Mononoke. Visitors can see Ashitaka and San’s house, the forest of Shishigami, and other places that appeared in the movie. Visitors can also enjoy “Princess Mononoke Forest Adventure,” an attraction based on Princess Mononoke.
Witch Valley: This area recreates the world of Howl’s Moving Castle. Visitors can see places that appeared in the movie, such as Howl’s castle and Sophie’s house. Visitors can also enjoy “Howl’s Moving Castle Labyrinth,” an attraction based on Howl’s Moving Castle.
Ghibli Park is a theme park that can be enjoyed by both children and adults. It is especially recommended for those who love the works of Studio Ghibli.
Access
■Train
A short walk from Aichi Rapid Transit Tobu Okaeru Line (Linimo) “Aichi Chikyu Hakuhaku Kinen Koen” Station
■Bus
Nagoya Station, Meitetsu Bus Center, 4th floor, bus stop #24, bound for “Love Expo ’70 Commemorative Park (Ghibli Park)
Chubu International Airport Terminal 1: To “Love Expo ’70 Commemorative Park (Ghibli Park)” via “Fujigaoka”.
Totoro Forest
https://www.totoro.or.jp/totorofund/index.html
The forest where “My Neighbor Totoro” was set is a wooded area in the Sayama Hills of Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture. This forest is known as “Totoro’s Forest” and is a popular spot visited by many fans. The forest is rich in nature and has many Totoro related spots such as Totoro statues and Totoro trees.
Since the release of the movie, Totoro Forest has been loved by many people. This forest is a place where visitors can forget the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in nature. It is also a place where you can experience the world of Totoro.
Totoro Forest is ideal for walking and hiking. The forest is covered with a variety of trees, including sawtooth oak, konara oak, and maple. The forest also has streams and ponds that are home to a variety of creatures. Walking through the forest, you will feel as if you could meet Totoro.
Totoro’s Forest is a place where you can forget the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in nature. It is also a place where you can experience the world of Totoro. Why not visit Totoro Forest and enjoy the world of Totoro?
Access to Totoro no Mori is a 20-minute walk from Kotesashi Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line. There is a well-maintained green path from the station to the forest, making it an easy walk.
Admission to Totoro Forest is free. When visiting Totoro Forest, please behave with good manners and take good care of the forest!
Precautions
*Do not take or damage animals or plants.
*Do not release animals or plant plants without permission.
*Take back any garbage you put out.
Injuries and accidents are your responsibility.
*Do not enter city-owned lands such as rice paddies and fields.
*We do not permit commercial use of the Totoro Forest (incorporation by companies into tours, announcements, etc.).
*We do not permit the use of images taken of Totoro Forest for commercial purposes such as paid content or advertisements.
Kroske’s House
Kroske’s House is an old house in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture. The house was the model for the movie “My Neighbor Totoro. Kroske House is managed by the Totoro’s Hometown Fund as a base for activities to protect the forest.
Kroske’s House is a one-story wooden house built in the 1930s. The house has a thatched roof, an earthen floor, and a porch. Inside the house are traditional furnishings such as a sunken hearth and a cooking stove.
Kroske’s House is a place where visitors can experience the world of the movie “My Neighbor Totoro. Why not visit Kroske’s House and enjoy the world of Totoro?
To get to Kroske’s House, it is about a 30-minute walk from Kotesashi Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line. There is a well-maintained green path from the station to the house, making it an easy walk.
Kroske’s House is open to the public (advance application required) from June 2022.
Notes.
Reservations required. Visitors without reservations will not be admitted.
No commercial sightseeing tours or tours with paid guides are accepted.
We do not permit the use of Kroske’s House for commercial purposes, such as paid content or advertising. Please refrain from using photos taken on the Internet for social networking sites.
The museum is closed on national holidays, Obon holidays, and year-end and New Year holidays. The museum may be closed temporarily. Please check the calendar for details.
No parking is available. Please use public transportation.
Parking on the street, unapproved parking at nearby commercial facilities, noise, littering, etc. are prohibited. Please be considerate so as not to inconvenience nearby residents.
As this is an old house, there are no air conditioners or vending machines. Please bring insect repellent in summer.
For more information, please visit the following website.
https://www.totoro.or.jp/kurosuke (Japanese site)
We propose a model case for experiencing the world of Totoro
Day 1
Morning: From Tokyo Station (Tokyo, Japan) to Nagoya Station (Aichi, Japan) by Shinkansen bullet train
Afternoon: Take Linimo (Meitetsu Seto Line) from Nagoya Station to Aichi Expo Park Station.
Visit Ghibli Park.
Day 2
Morning: Visit Ghibli Park.
Afternoon: Take Shinkansen from Nagoya Station (Aichi Prefecture) to Kotesashi Station (Saitama Prefecture) via Tokyo Station (Tokyo) and Ikebukuro Station (Tokyo).
Visit Kroske’s House.
Day 3
Morning: Visit Totoro Forest.
Afternoon: From Kotesashi Station (Saitama Pref.) to Tokyo Station (Tokyo Pref.) via Ikebukuro Station (Tokyo Pref.).