No matter your age, My Neighbor Totoro is probably one of your favorite movies. Enchanting, heartwarming, and just plain beautiful, Totoro is one of Hayao Miyazaki’s most beloved works. A creative couple in Takaharu, Japan wanted to bring that magic to life in the real world (via My Modern Met). So they created the immediately recognizable Totoro bus stop for their grandchildren. The life-sized construction quickly turned into a local tourist attraction.
We don’t know about you, but we want to go there immediately, even if it’s raining. Especially if it’s raining.
Studio Ghibli
Wood, bricks, and cement might not sound like a magical mixture, but in the hands of an experienced plasterer, they transformed into a (weatherproof) real-life Totoro.
Takaharu is in the Miyazaki Prefecture in the south of Japan on the island of Kyushu. The doting grandparents re-created the bus stop for their children and grandchildren. And then they decided to open it to the sightseeing public. Take a look at their progress to see Totoro take shape from a large, wooden barrel-like frame to a painted masterpiece in this town blog.
A local guesthouse just steps away from the statue has been chronicling visitors from around the world as the bus stop grows in popularity. No matter where they’re from, every visitor has a look of joy on their face as they stand next to the giant statue. Totoro might be made from cold concrete but no one can resist a quick cuddle.
Just when you think this couldn’t possibly be cuter, there’s also an acorn vending machine at the Totoro bus stop. For just 100 yen you’ll get a (possibly magic, who can say) acorn and a good luck fortune.
If you want to book your next relaxing getaway to visit the beloved Ghibli icon, take a look at the local guesthouse website and grab your red umbrella now!
Featured Image: Studio Ghibli
Kelly Knox is a freelance entertainment writer in Seattle, WA who writes for Star Wars, DC Comics, and more. Follow her on Twitter.