The Donguri No Mori in Yufuin is one of those places that's become Instagram-famous for good reason - it's absolutely adorable. But heads up: despite what all those social media reels might suggest, you're actually not supposed to film inside.
This isn't just another tourist trap cashing in on Ghibli's popularity - it's the official merchandise store, and it shows in the quality. We're talking everything from Totoro plushies that are almost too cute to handle to Spirited Away merchandise that'll make any Ghibli fan's wallet magically lighter.
The Yufuin branch has that special charm that makes you feel like you've stepped into a little piece of a Ghibli movie.