Studio Ghibli Fans, Rejoice！A Guide to Taiwan’s 5 Most “Ghibli-esque” Dreamlike Destinations

▲ Miaoli’s abandoned “Qiding Tunnel,” a green oasis reminiscent of a scene from Spirited Away. (Photo courtesy of netizen changyaochung. No unauthorized reproduction to avoid copyright infringement.)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

The fantastical and thought-provoking worlds created by Japan’s legendary animator Hayao Miyazaki have captured the hearts of fans around the globe. Whenever a new film is released, locations believed to have inspired the story—dubbed “inspiration sacred sites”—often come to light. Ghibli-style streets and scenes quickly become popular photo spots. Taiwan too has many attractions with a captivating, fairytale-like atmosphere that takes travelers into the dream worlds built by Miyazaki.

Keelung · Jiufen

▲ Foreign visitors love the ambiance of Jiufen Old Street, especially the scenic Shuqi Road lined with stone steps. (Photo from Wikipedia)

When it comes to destinations made famous thanks to Miyazaki, Jiufen is always at the top of the list. It’s rumored that parts of his masterpiece Spirited Away were inspired by Jiufen. Regardless of the accuracy of these claims, Jiufen’s unique mountain-town terrain, charming old street scenery, traditional tea houses, and stunning night views have made it a must-visit spot for Japanese tourists coming to Taiwan.

Miaoli · Qiding Tunnel
Address: Qiding Tunnel, Zhunan Township, Miaoli County

▲ The Qiding dual tunnels were built in 1928 during the Japanese colonial period. The upper section is constructed with red bricks, while the lower part uses concrete bricks. (Photo courtesy of netizen stepbystep2tr. No unauthorized reproduction to avoid copyright infringement.)

In Spirited Away, Chihiro and her parents wander into a dense forest, enter a tunnel, and encounter Haku before embarking on an incredible adventure. That iconic tunnel scene was inspired by Miaoli. The Qiding dual tunnels in Zhunan, Miaoli, which date back to the Japanese colonial era, are surrounded by lush greenery along the forest path. As you walk through this green oasis, the sudden sight of the tunnel entrance is strikingly similar to the animated version.

Tainan · Thousand Seeds Museum
Address: No. 29-1, Lane 451, Dongfeng Road, North District, Tainan City

▲ Admission to the Thousand Seeds Museum requires advance reservation. In addition to guided tour times, visitors can also explore the museum freely. (Photo authorized by Thousand Seeds Museum.)

Located in Tainan, the Thousand Seeds Museum is themed around “seeds.” Hidden away in the city’s alleys, it was painstakingly created over 30 years by a couple surnamed Liang. Surrounded by greenery on the outside, the interior is unexpectedly enchanting. Many visitors are amazed by its resemblance to the world of Miyazaki’s Castle in the Sky. The interior, filled with seed collections and handicrafts, feels like stepping into the home of Arrietty from The Secret World of Arrietty.

▲ The Thousand Seeds Museum houses a variety of seed collections, such as traveler’s palms, hibiscus, palms, and rosary peas. (Photo authorized by Thousand Seeds Museum.)

Hsinchu · Garden No. 6
Address: Laha Tribe, La-Hao Village, Xinle Township, Jianshi District, Hsinchu County

▲ Garden No. 6 in Hsinchu’s Jianshi Mountains, hidden within misty forests. (Photo courtesy of netizen ivan_tsai88. No unauthorized reproduction to avoid copyright infringement.)

In Ghibli films, small houses nestled in serene forests or deep mountains often appear. Hsinchu’s Jianshi Mountain area is home to such a secluded wooden cabin, surrounded by vibrant flowers and trees, with mountain views overlooking the valley. Especially when shrouded in mist, the cabin becomes part of a dreamy, hazy landscape, as if transported into an animated fantasy world.

Tainan · Breeze Valley
Address: No. 72-1, Beiping Village, Nanhua District, Tainan City

▲ The traditional-style Breeze Valley homestay in Tainan has an old-world charm. (Photo from Breeze Valley Homestay’s Facebook page)

The prototype of the Witch Yubaba’s bathhouse in Miyazaki’s works remains a topic of debate in Japan. Its magical presence has left a deep impression on fans. The Breeze Valley homestay, nestled in the mountains of Tainan, features a three-story traditional Japanese wooden structure that resembles settings from Spirited Away. Its appearance attracts many visitors. This tranquil lakeside guesthouse allows guests to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the imaginative world of Ghibli.