Moricoro Park
Gateway to Studio Ghibli's Magical World
Officially named Ai-Chikyuhaku Kinen Koen (Aichi Expo Memorial Park), Moricoro Park was established in 2006 on the 194-hectare site of the 2005 World Exposition. The expo, themed 'Nature's Wisdom,' attracted over 22 million visitors and showcased environmental sustainability. After the expo closed, the site was transformed into a public park preserving the event's legacy while creating green space for the community.
The park's nickname 'Moricoro' comes from Morizo and Kiccoro, the mascots of the 2005 Expo representing forest spirits. Several expo pavilions were preserved and repurposed, including the Global House (now Moricoro Park Pavilion) and the Satsuki and Mei's House, a detailed recreation of the home from Studio Ghibli's 'My Neighbor Totoro.' This preservation effort honored the expo's environmental themes.
In November 2022, Moricoro Park gained international attention with the opening of Ghibli Park, a collaboration between Aichi Prefecture and Studio Ghibli. Unlike traditional theme parks with rides, Ghibli Park integrates immersive exhibition areas throughout the natural landscape, allowing visitors to walk through scenes from beloved Ghibli films while appreciating the park's original environmental mission.
Key Highlights
- Site of 2005 World Exposition
- Home to Ghibli Park since 2022
- 194 hectares of parkland and forests
- Original Satsuki and Mei's House
- Japanese garden and observation tower
- Cycling paths and nature trails
Access Information
Location
1533-1 Ibaragabasama, Nagakute, Aichi 480-1342, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Ai-Chikyuhaku Kinen Koen Station (Linimo Line) - direct access
- • Nagakute Kosenjo Station (Linimo Line) - 13 min walk
Opening Hours
Park: 8:00-19:00 (April-Oct), 8:00-18:30 (Nov-Mar). Ghibli Park: 10:00-17:00, closed Tuesdays
Admission Fee
Park: Free. Ghibli Park: ¥1,000-2,500 per area (advance reservation required)
How to Get There
From Nagoya Station
Subway Higashiyama Line to Fujigaoka, transfer to Linimo to Ai-Chikyuhaku Kinen Koen
50 minutes
From Chubu Airport
Meitetsu train to Nagoya, then subway and Linimo as above
90 minutes
From Toyota City
Linimo Line direct to Ai-Chikyuhaku Kinen Koen Station
40 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Ghibli Park Reservations
Ghibli Park tickets must be reserved online in advance (up to 3 months ahead) and sell out quickly. Book via the official Boo-Woo ticket system. Separate tickets required for each area (Grand Warehouse, Dondoko Forest, Hill of Youth, etc.).
Plan Your Visit
Allocate a full day to explore both Ghibli Park and the surrounding Moricoro Park. Ghibli Park operates on timed entry. Arrive early to explore the free park areas before your Ghibli Park time slots. Closed Tuesdays (except holidays).
Exploring the Park
Beyond Ghibli Park, explore the observation tower for panoramic views, Japanese garden, cycling course (bike rental available), and forest trails. The park is vast - wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water.
Photography Rules
Photography is allowed in most park areas and some Ghibli Park locations, but restrictions apply inside certain Ghibli buildings. Flash photography and tripods are generally prohibited. Check signage at each location.
Dining Options
Several restaurants and cafes throughout the park, including Ghibli-themed establishments. Bentos and snacks available. Picnicking permitted in designated areas. Food options limited, so consider bringing snacks or eating before arrival.
Facilities
Well-maintained restrooms throughout the park. Nursing rooms and family facilities available. Coin lockers near the station for storing luggage. Wheelchair accessible paths, though some areas involve hills and stairs.
Ghibli Merchandise
Ghibli Park shops sell exclusive merchandise not available elsewhere. The Grand Warehouse features the largest selection. Popular items sell out quickly. Credit cards accepted, but bring cash as backup.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer can be hot and humid, autumn offers beautiful foliage, winter is cold. Much of Ghibli Park is outdoors - dress appropriately. Bring sun protection in summer and warm layers in winter.
FAQ
What is Moricoro Park and its connection to Ghibli Park?
Moricoro Park (Aichi Earth Expo Memorial Park) hosted the 2005 World Expo. Since November 2022, it houses Ghibli Park, a Studio Ghibli-themed attraction with areas inspired by films like Totoro, Spirited Away, and Howl's Moving Castle. The park combines the large green space of Moricoro Park with themed Ghibli areas scattered throughout.
How do I get to Moricoro Park from Nagoya?
Take the Linimo automated guideway from Fujigaoka Station (accessible via Nagoya Subway Higashiyama Line) to Aikyo Hakurankai Kinen Koen Station (about 15 minutes from Fujigaoka). Total travel time from central Nagoya is approximately 50-60 minutes. The park entrance is directly connected to the station.
Do I need tickets in advance for Ghibli Park?
Yes, absolutely! Ghibli Park requires date-specific advance tickets for each themed area. Tickets sell out quickly, often months ahead, especially for weekends and holidays. Purchase through the official Lawson ticket system. Each area requires separate tickets. You cannot enter Ghibli Park areas without pre-purchased tickets.
What are the different areas of Ghibli Park?
Five main areas: Ghibli's Grand Warehouse (largest indoor area with exhibits and cafes), Dondoko Forest (with Satsuki and Mei's House from Totoro), Hill of Youth (Howl's Castle), Princess Mononoke Village, and Witch's Valley (Kiki's Delivery Service). Each area requires separate tickets and offers unique experiences and photo opportunities.
Can I visit Moricoro Park without going to Ghibli Park?
Yes! Moricoro Park itself is free to enter and offers large lawns, walking paths, cycling routes, playgrounds, observation tower, ice skating rink, and seasonal flowers. Many visitors enjoy the general park area even without Ghibli Park tickets. It's a popular spot for families, joggers, and picnickers from the Nagoya area.
How long should I spend at Moricoro Park/Ghibli Park?
For Ghibli Park visitors, a full day (6-8 hours) allows touring multiple areas, taking photos, shopping, and dining. If visiting just one or two Ghibli areas, 3-4 hours suffices. For only Moricoro Park without Ghibli Park, 2-3 hours covers the main highlights. The large park area encourages leisurely exploration.
Are there restaurants and food options?
Yes, the park has several restaurants and cafes, including Ghibli-themed options in the Grand Warehouse area. The main park area has casual dining facilities. However, bringing a picnic is popular and permitted in designated areas. Vending machines are plentiful throughout the park. Prices are reasonable for a tourist attraction.
Is Moricoro Park good for young children?
Excellent! Large open spaces for running, playgrounds with various equipment, Ghibli Park areas that delight children (especially Totoro's House and Dondoko Forest), cycling rentals with child seats, and seasonal activities. The park is stroller-friendly. Very young children can enjoy the park atmosphere even if too young to fully appreciate Ghibli films.
What is included in the Ghibli Park ticket?
Each ticket grants access to one specific area during a designated time slot. You can explore that area, take photos (no flash), and enjoy the exhibits and structures. Some areas include short films or special displays. Shopping at Ghibli stores doesn't require area tickets. Each area ticket is priced separately (1,000-2,500 yen depending on area and age).
Can I take photos in Ghibli Park?
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged in most areas without flash. Some specific exhibition rooms prohibit photography. The recreated scenes from Ghibli films offer fantastic photo opportunities. Selfie sticks and tripods may be restricted in crowded areas. Social media sharing is permitted, making it very Instagram-friendly.
What should I do if Ghibli Park tickets are sold out?
Check regularly as tickets sometimes become available due to cancellations. Visit the general Moricoro Park and exterior Ghibli buildings (some are visible from outside). The Ghibli gift shop in the Grand Warehouse area is accessible without area tickets. Plan well in advance (3+ months) for future visits. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms and comfortable weather, autumn (October-November) for colorful foliage and pleasant temperatures. Summer can be hot and humid but offers green landscapes. Winter is less crowded and features occasional events. Weekdays are always less crowded than weekends. Each season offers different park atmospheres and decorations.
Are there facilities for babies and young children?
Yes, nursing rooms, baby changing facilities, and rest areas are available throughout the park. Stroller rentals are offered. Many restaurants provide children's menus. The park is designed to be family-friendly. However, very young babies may not get much from Ghibli Park itself, though the general park environment is suitable for all ages.
Can I rent bicycles at the park?
Yes, bicycle rentals are available (including tandem bikes and bikes with child seats) for exploring the large park area. The park features dedicated cycling paths. Rental fees are reasonable (around 300-500 yen per hour). Cycling is a popular way to cover the expansive grounds and access different areas efficiently. Note that bikes cannot enter Ghibli Park areas.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the park features paved paths, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms throughout. The Linimo station connects directly to the park entrance. Wheelchair rentals are available. Most Ghibli Park areas are designed with accessibility in mind, though some areas like Dondoko Forest involve hills and stairs. Check specific area accessibility information when booking.
What is Satsuki and Mei's House?
A detailed recreation of the house from 'My Neighbor Totoro' in the Dondoko Forest area. You can enter and explore the interior, seeing the kitchen, rooms, and details exactly as depicted in the film. It's one of the most popular attractions. The surrounding forest area recreates the film's natural setting. Photography is allowed.
Are there hotels near Moricoro Park?
Limited hotels exist immediately near the park, but Nagoya city (50 minutes away) offers extensive accommodation options at all price points. The convenient train connection makes staying in Nagoya practical. Some visitors choose hotels near Fujigaoka Station for easier access. Day trips from Nagoya are most common and practical.
Can I buy Ghibli merchandise without park tickets?
Yes! The Ghibli shop in the Grand Warehouse area is accessible without needing area tickets, though you must enter Moricoro Park. The shop sells exclusive Ghibli Park merchandise unavailable elsewhere. Expect lines during busy periods. This allows fans to get souvenirs even when area tickets are sold out.
What other attractions are near Moricoro Park?
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology in Nagoya, Nagoya Castle, Osu Shopping District, and Atsuta Shrine are all within 60 minutes. The park can anchor a day trip with morning or afternoon visits to Nagoya attractions. The Linimo line connects to Nagakute, a pleasant suburban area with shops and restaurants.
Are there lockers for storing luggage?
Yes, coin lockers are available at the park entrance and Linimo station. These are essential for storing bags, coats, or purchases while exploring the large park area or Ghibli Park. Prices are standard (300-600 yen depending on size). During busy periods, lockers can fill up early, so arrive early if needing storage.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Atsuta Shrine
One of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, housing the legendary sword Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, one of the Three Sacred Treasures of the Imperial Family. The shrine's sacred forest and ancient traditions attract millions of visitors annually.
Inuyama Castle
Japan's oldest surviving castle keep, designated a National Treasure. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Kiso River, this compact fortress offers stunning views and an authentic glimpse into feudal-era castle architecture.
Iwasaki Castle
A compact reconstructed castle featuring a unique tower design and historical museum, set in peaceful grounds with seasonal gardens in Nisshin City.
Nagoya Castle
A magnificent castle famous for its golden shachihoko (dolphin-like mythical creatures) adorning the roof. Originally built in 1612, it represents the power of the Tokugawa shogunate and the artistry of Japan's castle-building era.
Osu Shopping District
A vibrant covered shopping arcade in central Nagoya featuring over 1,200 shops and restaurants, from traditional Japanese goods to electronics, fashion, and international cuisine in a bustling pedestrian-friendly environment
Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology
A comprehensive industrial museum housed in Toyota's original factory, showcasing the evolution from textile machinery to automotive technology with extensive hands-on exhibits and working demonstrations