![]() Miyazaki’s heroes often succeed by confronting radical, existential, irreversible change, getting over the fear it instills, and finally embracing it. It’s most clearly expressed in his first original feature film, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, and his manga of the same name. These are good messages for any time, but in the middle of what is probably only the first wave of New York City’s interminable coronavirus shutdown, another common Miyazaki message has been at the forefront of my mind. Among other things, his filmography is known for its clear pattern of pro-environmentalist, pacifist, humanist leanings. If there’s one thing to know about Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki, it’s that when the reclusive director wants to say something, whether in an interview or in his films, he doesn’t hold back. To celebrate the arrival of the Japanese animation house’s library on digital and streaming services, we’re surveying the studio’s history, impact, and biggest themes. While the famed director suggests you aspire to “get lost like a child,” you’ll never truly be alone, thanks to informational boards along the way, flanked with characters from the film.May 25 to 30 is Studio Ghibli Week at Polygon. Visit to soak in the incredible nature that inspired Miyazaki to move the area. And sitting just 24 miles outside of Tokyo, Totoro’s Forest, located on Sayama Hill, is an easy day trip out of the capital. While you might not see any of these amazing characters in Saitama Prefecture, the good news is that the 8.6-acre forest that inspired the film has now become a protected nature preserve. In My Neighbor Totoro, Satsuki and Mei are led on a magical adventure by Totoro, a magical creature that appears to be part rabbit, part raccoon, and all other-worldly delight. From the Kii mountain range, which thanks to 30,000 cherry trees is drenched in pink every spring, to ornate shrines like the all-pink Tsubosaka Dera Temple, the entire area feels fit for a queen. It’s not unbelievable that the Nara Prefecture might have given birth to a tiny woman in a bamboo tree. ![]() ![]() The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is based on Japanese folklore, and it’s believed that the film’s palm-sized protagonist lived in the Nara prefecture. While visiting, be sure to make a stop by Lake Akan, one of the few places in the world where you can see Marimo, a rare ball-shaped algae growth that feels like it should be the star of its own Ghibli film. ![]() But rather than scary, the film (and its stunning visuals) are a reminder that love has the power to transcend life and death. Ghosts haunt the wetlands of Kushiro, Hokkaido in When Marnie Was There. It makes sense that it’s here where Ponyo would wash ashore-the area is also known for its abundant sea life, which has made it a notable fishing hub since the 1600s. The small Hiroshima prefecture town (located just south of Fukuyama City), has been called, “the most beautiful view in Japan,” a few that Miyazaki spent two months experiencing while working on the film. (Think The Little Mermaid with more twists and turns.) Tomonoura is the town where this odd and wonderful transformation takes place. One of Miyazaki’s more unusual films (which is saying a lot!) Ponyo is the story of an underwater wizard’s daughter, who floats to shore and becomes human. For a truly Kiki-worthy memento, stop by the windmill guest center, and grab a free broom to accompany your jump/flying photo. Yes, it’s the island’s Greek windmill that marks the small island town Kiki and her cat Jiji move to while doing her year of solo training. Shodoshima Island is known as the birthplace of Japanese olive production, numerous art galleries showcasing local talent, and… Kiki’s Delivery Service. (Flights depart from Osaka, Fukuoka, and Kagoshima.) But being on the island is a unique opportunity to step into an awe-filled world full of moss-covered trees, looming dormant volcanoes, and that Shiratani Unsui Valley, which contributed to the movie’s pivotal moments. Getting there will require a bit of extra transportation. Given the film’s heavy ecological themes, the real star is the untamed wilderness which was heavily inspired by Yakushima Island. Along the way he learns a powerful lesson about living in harmony with nature. Princess Mononoke is the story of Ashitaka, a young prince seeking the deer-like god Shishigami to release him from a deadly curse.
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