Railways disappearing into the sea, glowing forests filled with fireflies, and hot springs straight out of a fantasy world—these magical scenes may seem like something only found in animated films, but they truly exist in real life. Here are some of the most enchanting destinations in Japan and beyond that have inspired beloved works of animation.
1. Takamorimachi Forest, Kumamoto, Japan
Hidden in Kumamoto Prefecture, Takamorimachi Forest is home to the mystical Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine, where the spirit “Gin” is said to reside. This subtropical rainforest is especially famous for its countless fireflies.
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During summer, the forest transforms into a stage for a dazzling natural light show, as the glow of fireflies illuminates the trees in a dreamlike display. Photographers capture these fleeting lights in breathtaking, surreal images, earning the place its nickname—the Firefly Forest. The shimmering glow reminds visitors to cherish life’s brief and precious moments.
2. Shimonada Station, Ehime, Japan
In 2001, the quiet seaside Shimonada Station became famous after the release of Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away, which won an Academy Award. In the film, the main character Chihiro rides a mysterious train that glides across shallow waters. Shimonada’s seaside rail line resembles this fantastical journey, drawing countless fans who wish to see the “gateway to the spirit world” in real life.
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Interestingly, director Hayao Miyazaki may have been inspired by a real event: in 1959, a typhoon flooded Japan’s Meitetsu Tokoname Line, submerging part of the track. At the time, Miyazaki was just 18 years old—an impression that may have shaped the unforgettable imagery of the film.
3. Dōgo Onsen, Ehime, Japan
Fans of Spirited Away will instantly recognize the bathhouse that plays a central role in the film. Its real-world inspiration is believed to be Dōgo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts with a history of over 1,000 years.
The multi-story wooden building closely resembles the animated bathhouse, though without the famous red bridge. Miyazaki admitted that the final design drew from several onsen, but Dōgo Onsen remains the most iconic and proudly claims its place as a cultural landmark.
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4. Jiufen, Taiwan
Perched on Keelung Mountain, about 50 km north of Taipei, Jiufen is a former gold-mining town turned atmospheric tourist destination. With its lantern-lit alleys, tea houses, and stairways overlooking the sea, Jiufen strongly resembles the world of Spirited Away.
The town’s Japanese-influenced architecture, bustling night markets, and dragon motifs echo many details from the film. At night, the glowing lanterns and steaming street food stalls transport visitors straight into the magical universe that captivated millions.
5. Shiratani Unsuikyō Ravine, Yakushima, Japan
The mystical forests in Princess Mononoke were modeled after the lush and ancient Shiratani Unsuikyō Ravine on Yakushima Island. This primeval forest, with its moss-covered trees, misty trails, and twisting vines, provided the perfect setting for Miyazaki’s epic tale.
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Art director Kazuo Oga spent countless hours sketching the forest’s details—rocks, roots, and ferns—to recreate its atmosphere faithfully on screen. Today, fans of Mononoke hike through the ravine carrying little Kodama figurines, photographing them against the mossy trees and stones that inspired the film.
These destinations prove that the worlds seen in animation are not just works of imagination—they are reflections of real places, rich with culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you are a film enthusiast or a curious traveler, exploring these sites offers a chance to step into the magic of your favorite animated stories.
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