Studio Ghibli is founded in 1985 by directors Isao Takahata, Hayao Miyazaki, and producer Toshio Suzuki. It is an iconic Japanese animation studio. Known for its beautifully crafted, critically acclaimed films, Studio Ghibli has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide and earned numerous awards.
Here, the Ghibli fanbase is thriving. Social media is filled with fans watching the movies or attending the current ArtScience Museum exhibition. If you’re looking to show your love for the Ghibli, here are four ways to do just that – all for under S$50!
#1: WATCH STUDIO GHIBLI FILMS (AGAIN AND AGAIN)
Did you know Netflix offers 22 Studio Ghibli films for streaming worldwide? I recently watched The Boy and the Heron on Netflix, an Oscar and Golden Globe-winning masterpiece that’s as adventurous and magical as you’d expect. Set in wartime Japan, it follows Mahito, a young boy grieving the loss of his mother. His life takes a mysterious turn when he moves to the countryside and encounters a world where life and death blur, guided by a talking heron and a host of other quirky characters.
Some of my other Ghibli favorites on Netflix include Whisper of the Heart, Howl’s Moving Castle, and Kiki’s Delivery Service. You’ll never tire of re-watching these timeless classics!
#2: STEP INTO THE WORLD OF STUDIO GHIBLI
The ArtScience Museum is hosting “The World of Studio Ghibli” exhibition from Oct. 4, 2024, to Feb. 2, 2025. This exhibition, Studio Ghibli’s first in Singapore, spans 2,400 square meters across 11 galleries and immerses you in the magic of 11 iconic films, including My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, and Howl’s Moving Castle.
Be enchanted by a giant sculpture of Ponyo floating in the museum’s lily pond. Then, explore immersive installations and original sculptures across the basement and level three galleries. There’s also a range of interactive activities like drawing soot sprites from Spirited Away, writing gratitude notes inspired by Totoro, and making a thaumatrope with characters from My Neighbor Totoro.
Before you leave, don’t forget to visit the exclusive merchandise shop. From a Singapore-only Peranakan-inspired skirt to various Studio Ghibli souvenirs, there’s plenty to choose from (though some items may be a bit pricey).
Ticket prices start at S$23.80 for Sands Lifestyle members and range up to S$49 for non-local adult tickets on peak days. Personally, my sister and I can’t wait to experience this exhibition.
#3: SNAG INEXPENSIVE GHIBLI-INSPIRED KEYCHAINS AND CHARMS
For a budget-friendly dose of Studio Ghibli in your everyday life, check out Ghibli-inspired bag charms and keychains on Lazada or Shopee. You can find adorable metal keychains featuring Spirited Away’s No Face or other characters for as little as S$1.55.
Want something cuter? Look for coquette bead keychains, starting at just S$6. They’re perfect for decorating your bags or phones!
#4. CATCH THE PERFORMANCE OF “NO FACE” AT PAYA LEBAR SQUARE
Did you know you can enjoy a live performance from Spirited Away’s No Face right here in Singapore? A local busker named Fatt Kew, also known as the “One Boy Band”, has been spotted performing as No Face outside Paya Lebar Square. Kew plays multiple instruments, including a Ztar MIDI guitar, which lets him recreate iconic Ghibli melodies with soft-synth sounds.
Check out his performances where he often invites passersby to try out his instruments, adding a fun, interactive twist to his busking shows.
Image Credits: facebook.com/fattkew.theoneboyband.7
With these four simple (and affordable!) ways, you can immerse yourself in the magical world of Studio Ghibli right here in Singapore.