Such a fun and insightful book into the world of Studio Ghibli!! It was super interesting to read about the blends of architecture that create the nostalgic places we love in the Ghibli movies! Lots of beautiful art I'm sure a physical copy of this can be browsed for hours and hours. If you are a Studio Ghibli fan I recommend!

I love love love Studio Ghibli films, so this was wonderful to look through. Gorgeous artwork and photographs. I wouldn't read this all in one go, but parts here and there.

As a pretty much lifelong Studio Ghibli enthusiast, I was very excited to find out about this book. I love learning how stories are created, seeing the design process, and this book is a perfect glimpse into the development of the lushly detailed settings of Ghibli movies. I particularly enjoyed getting some new perspectives from maps, overhead views, and concept sketches/watercolors. It was great to learn more about the research and history involved in planning some of the designs, and I will definitely be paying more attention to the buildings and backgrounds next time I watch any of these films. I think this would make a great addition to a library collection, with appeal to Ghibli fans, as well as people interested in architecture, history and design. Very much looking forward to reading the physical copy of this book!

I loved reading about Hayao Miyazaki's insights behind the buildings in his films. He truly put in so much energy in the world building and it brings a new appreciation to the films.

Thank you to NetGalley, Viz Media, and Studio Ghibli for this absolutely gorgeous digital ARC!

This book was originally the catalog for the exhibition "Studio Ghibli’s Architecture in Animation" and is now translated for English readers! It is absolutely gorgeous digitally; the full color images and sketches from the films on the pages of this book are just as enthralling as they are on the screen. As an educator who uses Ghibli films to connect students to genre and Japanese folklore, I love providing new means of connection. As a trade school educator, this exploration of architecture is the perfect medium! Studio Ghibli: Architecture in Animation is a gorgeous collection of film architecture. The rationale behind each design choice pictured in this book is shared, and it's a wonderful read even if you aren't well-versed in the trade! Design can also tell a story, and the intention behind each choice (ranging from the color of the materials used or the architecture style of a different era) shapes the Ghibli films.

A must-have for any architecture, world-building, or Ghibli fan.

It's hard to say definitively on a digital rather that print edition, particularly when the published 'sample stamp' obscures chunks of text. However...

An excellent looking artbook on the creation of the buildings and related features in Ghibli films. The text, preparatory sketches gives further detail in support of the main artwork included. Having worked in the arts sector I can imagine this as an excellent support for the exhibition, it works well as a stand-alone book. Definitely one for Ghibli watchers to have!

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.