Totoro Forest Sayama Hills
A serene woodland sanctuary near Tokyo, inspired by 'My Neighbor Totoro,' dedicated to nature conservation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler air, fewer crowds
Totoro Forest Sayama Hills
Best Time
Cooler air, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene woodland sanctuary near Tokyo, inspired by 'My Neighbor Totoro,' dedicated to nature conservation.
"A quiet oasis of nature perfect for a walk to enjoy the fresh and cool air."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be steep and uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for enjoying the forest paths.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Essential for a comfortable walk, especially during warmer months. Don't forget this nature essential!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Whispering Woods
Wander through serene oak and cedar trees on quiet, mossy paths, feeling the essence of old Japan.
Community Conservation
See firsthand how local efforts protect nature, preserving these woodland patches from urban sprawl.
Nature's Symphony
Listen to the abundant bird songs and spot rare butterflies in this peaceful natural oasis.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect the Sanctuary
Prepare for Your Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be steep and uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for enjoying the forest paths.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Essential for a comfortable walk, especially during warmer months. Don't forget this nature essential!
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Amenities are scarce. Stay hydrated on your walk, especially if tackling inclines.
🚶♀️ Stick to Marked Trails
This is a protected conservation area. Respect the environment and stay on designated paths.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be steep and uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for enjoying the forest paths.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Essential for a comfortable walk, especially during warmer months. Don't forget this nature essential!
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Amenities are scarce. Stay hydrated on your walk, especially if tackling inclines.
🚶♀️ Stick to Marked Trails
This is a protected conservation area. Respect the environment and stay on designated paths.
🚫 No Totoro Statue Found
While named after the film, don't expect a Totoro statue. It's a natural forest, not a theme park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Totoro Forest for its serene natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, offering a tranquil escape inspired by Studio Ghibli. It's appreciated as a conservation project, though some note that it's not a theme park and can have steep, uneven trails. Be prepared for limited facilities and bring essentials.
"Hidden in the wooded folds of Sayama Hills lies a network of small forest parcels known as the Totoro Forests (トトロの森). Quiet paths weave through mossy ground, oak and cedar trees, and gentle slopes, carrying a sense of old Japan that has become rare around Tokyo’s edge. The forests are not vast, but each plot whispers its own story — of nature under threat, of community action, and of restoration.
In 1990, local environmentalists and supporters — led by Hayao Miyazaki — established a foundation to protect what remained of these woods. Over the years, they purchased dozens of forest sites, preserving them from development and neglect. Today, these woodland patches are maintained as small sanctuaries: trails guide visitors around, yet the interior remains untouched; rules and respect are essential to keep them whole.
Despite its fame among Ghibli fans, Totoro Forest is not a theme park. It is a conservation project first, a living example of how small, persistent efforts can protect nature at the fringe of urban sprawl."
kris esplin
"A few areas had been closed when we visited for logging older trees so it was a lot of a smaller trail than we expected. Make sure to take a drink with you and pa e yourself as some of the inclines are very steep."
Dan G
"It is a natural forest where you can watch rare butterflies
A nice oasis of nature perfect for a walk to enjoy the fresh and cool air
Just don’t forget mosquito repellent"
Lorenz Degenhardt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Totoro Forest is about an hour from Tokyo by train or bus. You can take a train to Sayama-shi Station or Kotesashi Station and then transfer to a local bus or taxi. Planning your route in advance is recommended for a smooth journey.
Yes, it is accessible by public transport. Trains from Tokyo will get you to nearby stations, and then local buses or a short taxi ride can complete the journey.
Walking is the primary way to explore Totoro Forest. The trails are designed for hiking, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature. Biking might be possible on some wider paths, but check local regulations.
Parking availability can be limited, especially on weekends. It's generally recommended to use public transportation to avoid any parking hassles.
Absolutely! Totoro Forest is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Totoro Forest is a natural area and a conservation project, so there are no admission fees. Entry is free for all visitors.
As a natural forest, Totoro Forest does not have set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, but it's best to go during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
The main restriction is to respect the natural environment. Stick to marked trails, do not litter, and avoid disturbing wildlife. Some areas might be temporarily closed for maintenance.
There is no entrance fee to visit Totoro Forest. It's a freely accessible natural space dedicated to conservation.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to check local guidelines for pets in natural parks. To ensure the preservation of the environment, it's often recommended to leave pets at home or keep them on a very short leash if permitted.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Totoro Forest offers serene walking trails through oak and cedar trees, a chance to enjoy fresh air, and observe nature like birds and butterflies. It's a peaceful escape inspired by Studio Ghibli's 'My Neighbor Totoro'.
The forest is beautiful, but the trails can be steep and uneven, which might be challenging for very young children or strollers. Older children who enjoy nature walks would likely appreciate it.
You can expect to hear many birds singing and potentially spot rare butterflies. It's a natural habitat, so keep an eye out for other small creatures.
Facilities are very limited within the forest itself. It's advisable to use restrooms before you arrive and bring your own snacks and drinks.
Yes, Totoro Forest offers beautiful natural scenery, mossy grounds, and tall trees, making it a picturesque spot for nature photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are scarce directly within the forest. It's best to plan to eat before or after your visit in nearby towns or pack a picnic to enjoy in a designated area if available.
While there aren't dedicated picnic areas, you can bring your own food and find a quiet spot to enjoy a picnic, provided you clean up thoroughly afterward and respect the natural surroundings.
In the towns surrounding Totoro Forest, you'll find typical Japanese eateries, from casual noodle shops to local restaurants. Exploring these areas will offer more dining choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for moss-covered trees, sun-dappled paths, and the dense canopy of oak and cedar. The natural beauty offers many opportunities for atmospheric shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed in Totoro Forest. However, always be respectful of the environment and other visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful soft light filtering through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere.
Drone usage is typically restricted in natural parks and conservation areas to protect wildlife and maintain tranquility. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited. Bringing insect repellent is also a good idea, especially during warmer seasons. The peaceful atmosphere and the chance to hear birds singing can be a delightful experience for children who appreciate nature. Just manage expectations about finding a 'Totoro statue' – it's a natural forest, not a theme park.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts
Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water, as the terrain can be challenging in parts. The forest's conservation status means it's a place to appreciate the environment responsibly. It's a chance to experience a slice of 'old Japan' and understand the importance of community-led conservation efforts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story Behind Totoro Forest
This isn't a theme park designed for entertainment, but rather a living example of how dedicated efforts can safeguard nature on the fringes of bustling cities. The forest is maintained with walking trails that guide visitors through, while the interior remains largely untouched, preserving its natural state. Respect for the environment and adherence to rules are paramount to keeping these woodlands whole for future generations.
Visitors can experience a sense of 'old Japan' here, a rarity near Tokyo. The quiet paths, mossy ground, and gentle slopes of oak and cedar trees create an atmosphere of tranquility. While some areas might be closed for tree maintenance, the essence of this conservation project shines through, offering a unique connection to nature and a reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship.
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
While the forest is not vast, the inclines can be quite steep in places, so pacing yourself is key. It's advisable to carry plenty of water, as amenities within the forest are minimal. During warmer months, insect repellent is also a must to ward off mosquitoes and other biting insects.
It's important to remember that Totoro Forest is a natural environment. Stick to the marked paths to avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem and to ensure your own safety. Some sections of the forest may occasionally be closed for logging older trees or other maintenance, so be prepared for potential detours or a smaller trail experience than anticipated.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit