Real-Life Version Of Totoro Bus Stop Has Been Constructed By An Elderly Couple And Is Now A Tourist Attraction

Totoro has long been one of Studio Ghibli’s most recognizable characters, but this real-life version of his famous bus stop gives the beloved figure a whole new kind of spotlight. In Takahuru, Miyazaki, an elderly couple spent years building a handmade Totoro display that now draws visitors from across Japan.

What started as a surprise for their grandchildren turned into a neighborhood attraction, then a full tourist stop for fans of My Neighbor Totoro. The giant character, the bus stop setting, and the couple’s dedication all helped turn a simple family project into something much bigger.

Now the handmade Totoro is pulling in cameras, crowds, and plenty of attention.

When creating Totoro from scratch, this inventive man displayed his amazing construction abilities

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And the construction begins

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We're getting there

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The work proper...

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It’s time for numerous concrete layers

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Everyone involved appeared to be having fun with the activity

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Let's mold

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Still going...

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Little is left, big boy, so say “cheese”!

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Then, Totoro received some additional brick layers to make it round and fat

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Teamwork does the trick

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Almost getting there...

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As dusk falls, the jovial furry monster begins to appear enigmatic

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The big animal is getting set...

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Standing tall and content with his creators is Totoro

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Take a snap

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And if you love turning ordinary scenes into magic, see Tom Dobinson’s 62 photos that make everyday places unforgettable.

Their granddaughter is joyfully whisked away!

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Yay!

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What began as a surprise for the grandchildren of the elderly couple quickly became popular in the neighborhood

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A very big hug

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They're all smiles

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Mummy, some more...

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Hey grandma!

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We're having fun

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More people came to see this large guy as Totoro's bus stop became the area's most popular tourist destination

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Happy to be here

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Peace!

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Give Totoro a big hug

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Please, Totoro, give me some advice on how to pose

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Looking so adorable

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A flashback to the past - Following the 1988 airing of the film My Neighbor Totoro, Totoro became popular

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Let's take a peek at Totoro's bus stop

In the comments, people expressed their admiration for the job well done

This commenter needs one too

Priscilla Ramirez

A few fans were ready to claim their own Totoro, too.

I love that too

Joy Sheffer

Truly amazing

Lei Shweyee Oo

We love Totoro

Claybear Bear

Love it

Angela Loureinne

Lovely

Ris Celle

It’s always amazing when someone brings a well-known character to life. With Totoro being a popular animated figure, it’s no surprise that the Totoro Bus Stop became popular.

Just like many people, I know I would definitely head over there to get a picture with the cute character. What about you? Please leave your thoughts about this mind-blowing craft in the comments and share this post as well.

Totoro’s bus stop proves that a little creativity can turn a family project into a local landmark.

Want more “how is this real?” moments like those everyday-place transformations in Small Moments That Prove The World Is Still Full Of Surprises?