Jet Lag Recovery Day
You just flew across the world yesterday! Ghibli Museum is perfect for Day 2 — it's calm, magical, and forces you to get out at a reasonable hour without being exhausting.
Late Morning
Ghibli Museum
A magical museum dedicated to Studio Ghibli films. No photos inside, which makes it even more special — just be present and enjoy.
Highlights:
- Rooftop robot soldier from Laputa
- Mini theater with exclusive short films
- Beautiful hand-crafted architecture
- Gift shop with unique items not available elsewhere
Note: The Catbus room is technically for small kids, but teens can still appreciate the whimsy!
Afternoon
Inokashira Park
Beautiful park right next to the museum. Perfect for decompression — rent a swan boat, walk around the pond, find a shady bench.
Small zoo: The park has a small free zoo (Inokashira Park Zoo) with Japanese animals, birds, and a small aquatic section. Low-key and fun — a nice way to pass time without any pressure.
Tip: Great for resetting your internal clock. Natural light + gentle activity helps beat jet lag.
Kichijoji Town
Charming neighborhood with great shopping and food. Wander the covered shopping streets, find a cafe, get some snacks.
Good for: Vintage shops, cafes, relaxed local vibe — no tourist crowds
Evening
Easy Dinner + Early Night
Dinner in Kichijoji or head back to your hotel area. Don't push it tonight!
Goal: Be in bed by 9-10 PM to lock in your sleep schedule.
Getting There
From central Tokyo to Ghibli Museum:
- Take JR Chuo Line to Mitaka Station (~20-30 min from Shinjuku)
- Walk through Inokashira Park to the museum (~15 min) OR take the Ghibli bus from the station
Reservations Required
Ghibli Museum — MUST BOOK AHEAD
Tickets are NOT sold at the museum. You must have a timed-entry reservation purchased in advance.
Recommended: Book an 11 AM or 12 PM slot to allow for jet-lag sleep-in.
Check the official site for when July 2026 tickets become available.
Why This Day Works
- Ghibli is calm and magical — not overwhelming for tired travelers
- Timed entry gives you a reason to wake up without a brutal early start
- Kichijoji is low-key and local-feeling
- Natural light in the park helps reset your body clock
- Back to hotel at a reasonable hour to rest up for teamLab + Shibuya tomorrow
Family Notes
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