Visiting Donguri Republic: Every Studio Ghibli store I visited in Japan

If you are a Studio Ghibli fan, visiting a Donguri Republic Studio Ghibli store in Japan feels a little like stepping into a dream you forgot you once had. I obviously knew Ghibli existed before the trip, but I had never even seen Donguri Republic mentioned online. So imagine my surprise when I turned a corner and suddenly Totoro was just standing there like an old friend who had been waiting for me the whole time.

Donguri Republic is essentially a chain dedicated entirely to Studio Ghibli merchandise, and without planning it at all, I ended up visiting several locations across Japan. Each store felt familiar, but slightly different, like chapters of the same story unfolding in different settings.

Here is what I experienced at each stop.

Kyoto: where Totoro opened the door

The first Donguri Republic Studio Ghibli store I visited was in Kyoto near the Gion area. At first I thought I was just looking at a large Totoro statue outside a shop. Then I realized that Totoro was actually part of the entrance. It felt like accidentally walking into a movie scene.

Inside, the store had a cozy magical atmosphere. There was a Jiji display from Kiki’s Delivery Service and a huge Totoro bus stop setup that immediately turned into a photo moment. I could have stood there for quite a while pretending I was waiting for the Catbus, although I suspect the Catbus does not follow a very reliable schedule.

The smaller details were just as charming. There was origami paper inspired by Kiki’s Delivery Service, tiny stationery pieces, and little objects that felt like they belonged in someone’s quiet creative corner.

Then there was the dishware. I did not buy any at the time, but now that I am home and eating from smaller plates more often, I keep thinking I probably should have trusted my instincts and picked up at least one.

Kamakura: the little store with big personality

The Kamakura Donguri Republic location felt smaller and more tucked away, almost like a hidden side quest.

There was a Totoro living inside a tree outside the shop, and I remember walking in while holding a matcha drink and feeling like I had accidentally wandered into a quiet little forest store.

The stores carry many similar items, especially hand towels and handkerchiefs, and this is where I spent far too long debating with myself. I loved a Howl design and a No-Face one, but convinced myself I did not need them. Reader, I now believe I should have simply chosen joy.

I also almost bought a pencil holder and could not decide between Yubaba or Jiji. I walked away empty-handed, which felt very responsible at the time and slightly tragic in hindsight.

There was even a Totoro baby set that made me pause longer than expected, imagining future milestones in a way that only Ghibli can manage.

Tokyo Character Street: a quiet treasure under the station

Under Tokyo Station, inside Tokyo Character Street, the Donguri Republic displays felt endless.

There were calendars, framed artwork, cookware, plushies, and shelves of beautifully designed Ghibli items. I spent a long time staring at a Calcifer pan coaster, wondering if it would actually transform my cooking experience or simply sit there looking adorable.

Some of the items were stunning but definitely beyond my budget. I kept reminding myself that suitcase space is a real thing.

The dishware and bakeware were especially tempting, but my home style is fairly specific and I do not have unlimited cabinet space. So I admired everything the way one admires art in a museum.

Very respectfully. With no intention of carrying it home.

Sunshine City in Ikebukuro: where Totoro followed me home

The Sunshine City Donguri Republic store in Ikebukuro felt larger and more immersive than the others.

There were themed displays everywhere, including a Kiki’s Delivery Service bakery setup and a Howl’s Moving Castle stove display that I had only ever seen online before.

This is also where I finally bought my Totoro plush.

I had owned one years ago and donated it during a different phase of life, so seeing this one felt strangely full circle. The plushies in Japan were also noticeably more affordable than the ones I have seen back home in Canada, which made the decision much easier.

There were sweaters, blankets, and endless Kiki and Howl themed items, and I had to keep reminding myself that my suitcase is not a bottomless portal.

Final thoughts on visiting Donguri Republic in Japan

What surprised me most about visiting Donguri Republic Studio Ghibli stores is that you do not actually have to buy anything to enjoy them.

Each location felt like a small experience of its own, filled with details that made me slow down and look around.

Donguri Republic was also only one part of my Ghibli themed trip. I visited the Ghibli Museum and even had a full Ghibli themed meal at Corn Barley, which made the whole journey feel like walking through different chapters of the same story.

Maybe that is the magic of Ghibli in Japan. It is not really about collecting merchandise.

It is about wandering, noticing the little things, and letting yourself feel nostalgic about it all.

And if you happen to leave with a Totoro tucked into your carry-on, well, that just means the story wanted to come home with you.