1. Cefalu, Italy
Cefalu is located on the northern coast of Sicily, Italy, about an hour's drive east from Palermo.
This picturesque medieval town oozes with old-world charm fused with dreamlike Ghibli sceneries.
We recommend this for the real-life Ghibli movie experience, because: its honey-hued houses cascade towards the sea backed by an impressive rocky height, its ethanol-shrouded atmosphere, and its dramatic sunset views.
The best time to visit is in late spring because: it avoids the busy summer period and allows you to enjoy pleasant weather and less crowded streets.
For a sensory-rich experience:
- Medieval washhouse — Explore this historic site where streams of water originate from an underground source offering a Ghibli-esque scene.
- Rocca di Cefalu — An iconic rocky height that provides a splendid viewpoint for appreciating the town's mesmerizing view. It's the real version of 'The Secret World of Arrietty.'
- Cathedral of Cefalu — A UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stunning mosaic works, reminiscent of 'Tales from Earthsea.'
Pro tip: Don't miss the mouth-watering gelato from Gelateria Etna.
2. Tomonoura, Japan
Tomonoura is located in the Hiroshima prefecture of Japan, about an hour's drive south from Hiroshima City.
This peaceful fishing village is known to be the inspiration for 'Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea.'
We recommend this for the real-life Ghibli movie experience, because: of its preserved old Japan atmosphere, the magical panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, and its rich history.
The best time to visit is in spring because: the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a scenery straight out of a Ghibli scene, and the weather is delightful.
Experience Tomonoura through:
- Ioji Temple — Sitting atop a hill, it gives off serious 'Spirited Away' vibes.
- Enpuku-ji — This temple and its five-story pagoda perfectly encapsulate the Ghibli aesthetic.
- Joyato Lighthouse — It’s an idyllic spot to catch beautiful sunsets, reminiscent of 'Ponyo'.
Pro tip: Try Fukuyama's local dish, Anago Meshi.
3. Collioure, France
Collioure is located in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France, just a half-hour drive south from Perpignan.
This beachside jewel offers a vibrant palette of colors just like 'The Wind Rises.'
We recommend this for the real-life Ghibli movie experience, because: of its distinct Mediterranean charm, the unique blend of French and Catalan influences, and its extraordinary light quality loved by artists.
The best time to visit is in late spring when: it’s less crowded, yet you can enjoy mild beach-friendly temperatures.
Explore Collioure's beauty through:
- Collioure Castle — Explore its cobblestone streets and rustic houses that ooze Ghibli charm.
- Notre-Dame-des-Anges — Thia church perched by the sea mirrors the beautiful blend of ancient and modern settings in Ghibli films.
- An Artists' trail — Get inspired by the artistry that has captivated painters for centuries, just like Jiro Horikoshi in 'The Wind Rises.'
Pro tip: Be sure to taste the famous Banyuls wine at one of the seafront bistros.
4. Castro, Chile
Castro is located in the Los Lagos Region of Chile, about an hour’s plane ride south from Puerto Montt.
Surrounded by the sea and vibrant houses on stilts, Castro feels like a real-life version of 'Porco Rosso.'
We recommend this for the real-life Ghibli movie experience because: of the iconic "palafitos" (houses on stilts), the stunning waterfront sunrise, and its unique local culture.
The best time to visit is in summer (December to February), because: the weather is mild and it's ideal for whale watching in the breezy archipelago.
Immerse in Castro with:
- Palafitos — These colorful traditional stilt houses against a beautiful seascape are a sight to behold.
- San Francisco Church — A majestic wooden structure reminiscent of the mystical architectures in Ghibli movies.
- Castro's vibrant market — It offers fresh local produce and handcrafted products, reflecting the charming simplicity of Ghibli animated townsfolk's life.
Pro tip: Take a kayak tour at dawn to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the palafitos.
5. Portree, Scotland
Portree is located on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, a three-hour drive northwest from Glasgow.
This harbour town with quaint charm and dramatic landscapes is straight out of 'Howl’s Moving Castle.'
We recommend this for the real-life Ghibli movie experience because of: its captivating coastal views, the beautifully weathered buildings, and its feature in Hollywood films for its other-worldly appeal.
The best time to visit is late spring to early summer, because: the temperate climate makes exploring comfortable and the long daylight hours give you more time for adventures.
Experience Portree through:
- The Old Man of Storr — This dramatic rock formation set against stunning landscapes will take you to Sophie's walking scenes in 'Howl's Moving Castle.'
- Portree Harbour — Its pretty colourful houses echo the lively and colorful scenery in many Ghibli movies.
- Quiraing — Walk through this surreal landscape, it's like stepping into the dreamy world of Ghibli.
Pro tip: Sample Skye's famous seafood platter at one of the waterside restaurants in Portree.
6. Prince Edward Island, Canada
Prince Edward Island is located in eastern Canada, about a two-hour drive from Halifax.
Inspiration for the Anne of Green Gables stories, this island teems with Ghibli vibes.
We recommend this for the real-life Ghibli movie experience, because: of its lush landscapes filled with wildflowers and rolling hills, its charming rural living, and its magical sunsets.
The best time to visit is in summer because: the island is awash with vibrant colors, and the weather is perfect for a beachside leisure.
Experience PEI's charm through:
- Cavendish Beach — The dramatic cliffs and rust-colored sand beaches are reminiscent of 'When Marnie Was There.'
- Green Gables Heritage Place — Explore Anne's world that feels like a live action of 'Anne of the Meadow.'
- Prince Edward Island National Park — Immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes, much like the natural beauty in 'My Neighbor Totoro.'
Pro tip: Don’t leave without trying the world-renowned PEI mussels.
7. Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre is located in the Liguria region of Italy, about a two-hour train ride from Florence.
This collection of five fishing villages perched on the rugged Italian Riviera, evokes vivid scenes from 'From Up on Poppy Hill.'
We recommend this for the real-life Ghibli movie experience because: of its charismatic charm, the brightly colored houses stacked atop each other against the sea, and its car-free cobbled streets.
The best time to visit is in spring because: the tourist crowds are smaller, and the blossoming vegetation gives the scenery a fresh vibrancy.
Delight in Cinque Terre's vibrance through:
- Hike between villages — Witness the picturesque views and appreciate the similar setting of Umi's coastal town in 'From Up on Poppy Hill.'
- Riomaggiore's Marina — Sit by the marina and let the dazzling blend of colors and sounds of the surf whisk you into a Ghibli film.
- Via dell'Amore — Walk this famous path that offers stunning seaside views, much like the breathtaking sceneries in 'The Wind Rises.'
Pro tip: Don't miss the Cinque Terre honey, especially the one derived from Corniglia's lemon blossoms.
