Absolutely Instagrammable: Japan’s 3 Must-Visit “Fairy Tale Villages” Where You Can Step into Moomin’s Home

Reported by Reporter Tsai Wen-jun / Comprehensive Report

It’s become a trend to show off unique photo spots on Facebook and Instagram. If you’re aiming for dreamy, fairy-tale-style photos, there’s nothing better than visiting an actual fairy-tale village. Japan has three must-visit “fairy tale villages” featuring romantic scenes that feel like stepping into a storybook world — plus a Moomin theme park. Don’t miss these spots if you want the most magical and picturesque photos.

▲ Moomin Park. (Photo / FromThe official Facebook page of Hannou City)

1. Saitama — Moomin Park
A “Akaboko Children’s Forest Park” themed around the Moomin picture book world brings the whimsical tales to life. The Nordic-style park’s biggest highlight is that you can actually step inside Moomin’s home and visit Moomin’s bedroom. There’s also a family play area in the basement. It’s not only incredibly photogenic but also perfect for kids to have fun.

Address: 893-1 Azusu, Hannou City, Saitama Prefecture
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Access: A 20-minute walk from Moji-Kaitaku Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line

▲ Yufuin Fairy Tale Village, known as one of the world’s most beautiful villages. (Photo / Screenshot from Retrip)

2. Oita Prefecture — Yufuin Fairy Tale Village
Yufuin Fairy Tale Village is designed around three famous fairy-tale settings, even incorporating scenes from Studio Ghibli’s “Kiki’s Delivery Service.” Its romantic Nordic vibe has earned it the title of one of the world’s most beautiful villages. It’s loved not only by Japanese visitors but also by Europeans who make special pilgrimages here. In addition, the staff dress in period costumes, further enhancing the strong fairy-tale atmosphere.

Address: 1503-3 Kawakami, Yufuin-cho, Yufu-shi, Oita, Japan

▲ A scene that feels like stepping into a storybook world. (Photo / Screenshot from Retrip)