If your family includes at least one Studio Ghibli enthusiast (or, let’s be honest, several), then Okamoto Park in Setagaya, Tokyo is an absolute must-see. Tucked inside a peaceful corner of Setagaya, this open-air museum is where Tokyo’s past comes alive—quietly, beautifully, and with just the right amount of Ghibli vibes to make every Totoro fan gasp, “Wait… is this where Mei and Satsuki live?”
Step Into a Real-Life Ghibli Atmosphere
Okamoto Park preserves a traditional Japanese houses and farm building, many over a century old. This “Tokyo old house” are wonderfully photogenic, with wooden beams, thatched roofs, and that nostalgic countryside feeling that instantly transports you into a warm, hand-drawn Ghibli frame.
Kids love exploring the houses’ cozy rooms, peeking out sliding doors, and imagining soot sprites dancing around the beams. It’s wholesome, imaginative play disguised as cultural education—parent win!
Perfect for Families Who Need a Calm Break
Despite being in Tokyo, the park is surprisingly quiet and spacious. There’s plenty of room for curious explorers, stroller-pushers, and parents who appreciate a chance to sit under a tree and sigh happily.
It’s a great spot for:
- A peaceful half-day escape
- Let-the-kids-run time
- Slow travel moments between busy Tokyo attractions
Easy to Reach from Central Tokyo
Setagaya Minka-en is a short hop from Shinjuku or Shibuya, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of rural Japan without leaving the city. It pairs nicely with visits to nearby parks, museums, and family-friendly cafés.
📍 Address
2-19-1 Okamoto, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 157-0076
🕘 Opening hours & Holidays
- Open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
- On New Year’s Day (元日) special hours: 10:00 AM–3:30 PM.
- Closed every Monday (if Monday is a public holiday, then closed the next weekday instead).
- Also closed Dec 28–31 and Jan 2–4 for New Year’s holidays.
- Admission is free.
🚍 How to get there
- From Tokyu Den-en-toshi (or similar) train line: about 20 minutes walk from 二子玉川駅 (Futako-Tamagawa Station).
- By bus: take the “玉07” line (between Futako-Tamagawa and 成城学園前駅 (Seijo-Gakuenmae Station)) — get off at the stop “世田谷総合高校 (Setagaya Sogo High School)” then walk ~5 minutes.
- Alternatively, bus lines “玉30” (Futako-Tamagawa → local loop) or “玉31” (Futako-Tamagawa → Seijo-Gakuenmae) also go to a stop labeled “民家園 (Minka-en)” — from there it’s just a 1 minute walk.
🚗 By car / Parking
- There is a small free parking lot at the park. Capacity is limited (~10 cars).
- Parking is available only during opening hours (9:30–16:30), and no large-vehicle parking — not ideal for big vans or buses.
⚠️ Notes / Rules
- No smoking inside the park.
- Bringing bicycles or pets into the Minka-en is not allowed.
Quick Tips for Families & Totoro-Fans
- Since it’s walkable or short-ride reachable from Futako-Tamagawa, it’s easy to combine with other family-friendly spots nearby.
- Parking is very limited — public transit or bus + walk is probably the safest bet.
- Because admission is free and the garden/houses are peaceful and uncrowded, it’s great for a relaxed half-day visit even with small kids or a stroller.
- If you want a relaxed visit, aim for morning or early afternoon — gives you time to explore without rushing before closing.
If you are interested in exploring old houses, you will also like Jidayubori Park! It is right near the Toho Studios (with a Godzilla statue and wall painting!).
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