8 Amazing Photo Spots To Visit At ArtScience Museum's First-Ever Studio Ghibli Exhibition
Ever dreamed of diving headfirst into the enchanting, magical, and slightly quirky world of Studio Ghibli to live out your Chihiro, Kiki, or Sophie dreams? Congrats, because your film fantasies just got a lot closer to reality! The ArtScience Museum has blessed us mere mortals with its first-ever Studio Ghibli exhibition, and spoiler: it’s a complete and utter Instagram wonderland for anyone with even a slight obsession with these iconic films.
We scoured every nook and cranny of this sprawling The World of Studio Ghibli exhibit — consisting of 11 galleries spanning two levels! — to find the top 8 photo spots that’ll transport you straight into your favourite films. From posing next to Totoro to twirling through Howl’s secret garden, these spots are as magical as they come.
#1: Howl's Secret Garden
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
So you've been in love with the mysterious and mischievous Howl Pendragon from Howl's Moving Castle for years? Firstly, same. Secondly, you absolutely cannot miss Howl's Secret Garden — it may look like a regular hanging light fixture from the outside, but get under it and you'll reveal a gorgeous 360-degree curved installation on the inside.
This stunning feat of art and science showcases the massive garden that Howl created using magic for Sophie, in all of its panoramic goodness.
#2: Laputa, The Castle in the Sky
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Here's another 'hidden' photo op: step close to the enormous Laputa installation (which looks like a mostly plain wall at first glance), and look down! The reflection on the ground reveals a majestic view of the floating island from Castle in the Sky, meticulously crafted on the inverted side of this dome.
Futuristic ruins and lush greenery? Check. Towering ancient structures and ethereal lighting? Check. Now all you have to do is angle that phone camera just right and you'll feel like Sheeta or Pazu, discovering the secrets of a lost civilization.
#3: Kiki's Bakery and Flight
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Calling all Kiki’s Delivery Service fans — this one’s a treat, literally. Peek through the window of the rustic and charming Gutiokipanja bakery, which Kiki frequents. The warm, cottagecore-esque atmosphere feels like it came straight out of the film, with freshly baked bread and pastries strewn about. Once you're done there, head to the enormous set where you'll get to see the little heroine in mid-flight!
#4: The Aburaya Bathhouse
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
While visitors can't pass the banister, this massive recreation of Aburaya Bathhouse from Spirited Away will still leave you speechless. The grand architecture, lantern-lit corridors, and towering red gates come to life in this masterfully crafted set to make the ultimate spot for a mystical, otherworldly shot. Don’t be surprised if No-Face makes an appearance, because this place has all the spirit world vibes.
#5: The Bamboo Forest
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
With so many Studio Ghibli films like My Neighbor Totoro highlighting the importance of nature and the creatures that live inside, it's no wonder that this exhibition has included an entire bamboo forest section for visitors to venture into! Mystical, wrapped in pale green hues, and dappled in sunlight, this stretch of forest creates a delicate, magical atmosphere that's best for those who enjoy a dash of natural lighting in their pictures.
#6: Totoro Bus Stop
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Ah, the iconic Totoro Bus Stop, where every Ghibli fan dreams of getting caught in the rain. Recreate that unforgettable scene from My Neighbor Totoro as you pose at this charming bus stop with Satsuki, Mei and Totoro, surrounded by the pitter-patter of gentle raindrops.
This photo corner even provides a matching red umbrella that you can hold aloft! Bonus points if you bring a Totoro plushie along to join you for the shot!
#7: The Deer God's Forest
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Enter the majestic, mystical realm of the Princess Mononoke forest. Towering trees, dense greenery, and curious forest sprites transport you into the heart of this ancient, spiritual land. Whether you’re posing by the misty screen before the Deer God or striking a pose against the nearly-life-sized recreations of Prince Ashitaka and Princess San, this spot is nothing short of epic.
The natural, untamed beauty of the forest is perfect for anyone looking to bring a touch of fierce yet mystical vibes to their Instagram feed. It's time to channel your inner forest warrior!
#8: Aboard the Sea Railway
Photo from GirlStyle Singapore
Can't imagine travelling all the way to Ehime Prefecture in Japan for your Spirited Away-inspired train shots? We have the one thing that's even better — hopping onboard the actual Sea Railway as Chihiro herself. Sit down on the cozy bench with No-Face, right in front of windows that show off an otherworldly view of the iconic train tracks over water.
Whether you're snapping a contemplative 'travel' selfie or getting all your friends in for a whimsical group shot, this spot is probably the number one place to capture the essence of Studio Ghibli’s signature wistful beauty.
The World of Studio Ghibli will run from 4 October 2024 to 2 February 2025. Tickets start at $29 for adults. Get them here!
