Looking for a unique hands-on experience your children will never forget? The Totoro plush making workshop in Izu, Japan, is a dream come true for families with young kids and fans of Miyazaki My Neighbor Totoro. Located near the Izu Teddy Bear Museum, this immersive activity is filled with imagination, creativity, and a touch of Ghibli magic, and brings the world of Miyazaki My Neighbor Totoro to life.
The experience is not just about crafting a plush toy—it’s an enchanting journey where your child brings their very own Totoro to life through play, creativity, and care. It’s also a fantastic opportunity for parents to engage in a meaningful activity with their children, making it one of the most recommended family attractions in the Izu area.
👨👩👧👦 Who Is This For?
This experience is perfect for:
- 🧒 Families with young children (ideal for ages 3–10)
- 👪 Parents looking for meaningful and creative activities in Japan
- 🌟 Fans of Miyazaki My Neighbor Totoro and Studio Ghibli
- ✨ Travelers seeking a wholesome, heartwarming memory-making experience
🎨 What You’ll Do: Step-by-Step
1. 🧵 Make Your Own Miyazaki my neighbor Totoro Plush
You’ll start by selecting your favorite Totoro size and color. Then, using soft filling, you will stuff the plush and carefully hand-stitch the back with help from friendly staff. It’s a gentle and rewarding introduction to sewing for kids and parents alike.
2. 💇 Give Totoro a Mini Spa Day
Once your Totoro is complete, head to the adorable “dresser station” where your child can use a mini hair dryer to fluff Totoro’s fur, brush it, and pamper it like a real friend.
3. 📏 Get Totoro’s Measurements and Passport
Move to the “weigh-in” station, where your plush will be measured and weighed. Then, create a personalized passport with your child’s name and Totoro’s profile. A perfect keepsake and educational moment!
4. 🩺 Totoro Gets a CT Scan!
At this creative station, your Totoro will go through a mini CT scanner for a “health check.” A screen displays fun animations of Totoro’s condition, making it an adorable and imaginative touch.
5. 🛍 Browse the Gift Shop
Finish your adventure by visiting the themed gift shop, which includes official Ghibli items, teddy bears, and accessories to customize your plush. A must-stop for fans of Miyazaki My Neighbor Totoro. You can also find exclusive Miyazaki My Neighbor Totoro merchandise perfect as gifts.
🧸 Bonus: Visit the Izu Teddy Bear Museum
Located next door (separate admission), the Izu Teddy Bear Museum features classic European-style bears, Ghibli character exhibits, and a Totoro photo zone—perfect for fans of all ages.
💡 Entry to the plush workshop and souvenir shop is free. Admission is required only for the museum exhibits.
🎟 Buy museum admission tickets online: Klook – Izu Teddy Bear Museum
🎟 How to Book
We recommend reserving your Totoro workshop ticket in advance, especially on weekends or holidays.
✅ Totoro Workshop Booking: Available through PassMarket (Japanese only)
✅ Museum Admission Ticket: Book via Klook for discounts and English support
📌 How to Book via PassMarket (Japanese Only)
Although the Totoro Workshop does not support international booking sites, you can still reserve your spot through PassMarket (Japanese only) by following these steps:
- 🔗 Go to the official reservation page: PassMarket Totoro Workshop
- 🗓 Choose your preferred date and time from the calendar.
- 🔢 Select the number of participants and click the orange button to proceed.
- 📝 Fill in your basic details (name, email). You can use auto-translate or a browser extension like Google Translate if needed.
- 💳 Payment can only be made with Japan-issued credit cards or via PayPay.
- ✅ Once completed, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a QR code to show at the workshop.
⚠️ If you don’t have a Japan-issued credit card, consider asking a local contact or booking once in Japan.
💰 Current Prices (as of March 29, 2025)
Totoro Workshop fees vary depending on the size and accessories of your plush. Below are example prices:
- 🧸 Small Totoro Plush: ¥2,600 (approx. $17 USD)
- 🧸 Medium Totoro Plush: ¥3,600 (approx. $24 USD)
- 🧸 Large Totoro Plush: ¥4,600 (approx. $31 USD)
- 🎁 Optional Accessories: ¥500–¥1,500 each (approx. $3–$10 USD) — e.g. corn, balloons, leaves
💱 USD conversions are approximate, based on an exchange rate of ¥150 = $1 USD.
Prices are subject to change. Please check the PassMarket page for the latest updates.
💡 Tips for Parents
- 📸 Bring your camera! Every station is perfect for photos.
- ⏰ Allow 60–90 minutes for the whole experience.
- 🧳 Combine this with a visit to the Izu Shaboten Zoo or a hot spring stay for a full-day trip.
- 🍱 There are also nearby cafes and lunch spots perfect for taking a break with small kids.
🌟 Why This Workshop Is Unforgettable
From hand-stuffing and sewing your own Totoro plush to issuing its first passport, this Miyazaki My Neighbor Totoro workshop brings the story to life. It’s more than crafting—it’s storytelling, bonding, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
For families visiting Japan, especially with young kids, this workshop is a top-rated, heartwarming, and picture-perfect highlight of any trip.
Don’t miss out on this magical hands-on experience in Japan!
🗺 What’s Next Around the Area?
This Totoro workshop is just one of many fun attractions in the Izu Highlands! In our upcoming articles, we’ll explore more family-friendly spots near the Izu Teddy Bear Museum:
- 🖼 MOA Museum of Art – Stunning ocean views and immersive cultural exhibits.
- 🧖 Hot Springs – Relaxing onsen experiences for parents and kids.
- 🐒 Izu Shaboten Zoo – Meet capybaras, monkeys, and more in this charming zoo and cactus garden.
Stay tuned for more magical adventures in Izu!
