Studio Ghibli: Architecture in Animation is a stunning art book that offers fans a deep dive into the imaginative architectural wonders featured in the studio's iconic films. Showcasing hundreds of concept art pieces, sketches, and background paintings, this book explores the vibrant worlds of classics like Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, and My Neighbor Totoro. With insightful commentary from director Hayao Miyazaki, architect Terunobu Fujimori, and Ghibli’s talented artists, readers gain a behind-the-scenes look at the historical, architectural, and personal inspirations behind iconic structures like Howl's Moving Castle and the bathhouse in Spirited Away.

A non-manga addition to next month’s Viz books, this hardcover is a must for Studio Ghibli fans. Studio Ghibli: Architecture in Animation was originally the guide to the Japanese exhibition of the same name. Now, you can enjoy the materials (along with lots of gorgeous art) from the comfort of home. This hardcover is full of everything Ghibli fans love: design work, interviews, behind-the-scenes commentary, and much more.

One of the most interesting parts of the book is a discussion between Hayao Miyazaki and architectural historian Terunobu Fujimori. The pair talk about life, grief, history, and (of course) architecture. Other sections talk about the design ethic behind the studio itself and the Ghibli Museum. And, naturally, there are in-depth dives into the inspirations behind the iconic buildings from Ghibli’s many films. Besides images of the animated buildings, there’s information on the real-world architectural wonders that inspired these memorable fictional locations. It’s a fascinating book to have on hand, and even the staunchest Ghibli fan will likely learn something new.

This is a fascinating look about how buildings help to create the environment of a Ghibli movie. It not only addresses it from an architectural standpoint, but also as a mode of story building, and in the actual animation and drawing process of it.

This is a highly specific book that's pretty much as described. People more into the Ghibli side of it may find themselves a bit out of the weeds when reading about the more architecturally-inclined text, but that's how one learns. The illustrations are, of course, lovely.

I am not sure what I expected, but it wasn't this. There are so many pictures of places in the Ghibli movies. Then you get historical context to explain the choices. This is perfect for all Ghibli fans.

4 stars

A must read for Studio Ghibli fans who are enamoured with the worlds within! I cannot wait to own a physical copy of this book. It is so gorgeous as we all know Ghibli works are. There's a subtly to them that just feels so real.

Lovely!! I've read other books created by Studio Ghibli before, with collections of artwork from specific movies. This one does not disappoint! A very beautiful and thoughtful analysis on architecture.

I am a huge fan of Studio Ghibli and was excited to see an almost behind the scenes of some of the most iconic movies out there. I think this is a great book for all who love the movies. It's simply beautiful and I could flip through it over and over

As someone who was deeply shaped and affected by the creative works from Studio Ghibli, I can confirm this adds a secret love to the world.

My first film experience from Studio Ghibli was Spirited away, the Cat returns, and then Howl's moving castle. As I grew up and discovered more of the Studios works, it kept burning a passion for magic and wonder that I use to think only lived in you when you were a kid.
In Studio Ghibli: Architecture in Animation we see earlier concept drawings of many films; Howl's, Kiki, Ponyo and more. Each glimpse into the art and design of the film shares moments from history in Japan and explanations surround the look and feel the Architecture helps portray.
This book holds a lot of historical elements to it that added to the experience as it does with the films.

Nice bonus was an interview with studio creator, the famous Hayao Miyazaki, towards the end.
Fun Fact: I just went to Japan and I think I actually bought this book (in Japanese) as a gift for someone.

It is great to see the less recognized parts of Ghibli animation, at least in print, get the praise that they deserve in print.