For fans of Studio Ghibli’s beloved film My Neighbor Totoro, the Catbus, also spelled Cat Bus and Totoro Pass in Fukagawa City, Hokkaido, offers a whimsical and unforgettable experience. This unique photo spot combines nostalgia, creativity, and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for anime lovers and travelers exploring the Sorachi Subprefecture.
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| Cat Bus Revisited 2023 |
Our Cat Bus Adventures
Our first visit to the Cat Bus was on September 10, 2022, during a three-day road trip across Hokkaido. At the time, it was my 313th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. As avid fans of My Neighbor Totoro, we couldn’t resist the chance to see this iconic attraction. Aside from capturing countless photos of the Catbus, we also soaked in the stunning panoramic views from the Totorotoge Parking Area. The experience left such a lasting impression that we knew we had to return.
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| Cat Bus - Fukagawa City, Hokkaido Prefeture |
On July 23, 2023, I revisited the Catbus with my daughter and siblings during their vacation in Hokkaido. It was my 629th day in Japan, and sharing this magical place with my family made the visit even more special.
What Makes the Cat Bus Special?
The Cat Bus isn’t just a quirky photo spot—it’s a testament to the creativity and community spirit of Fukagawa City. Originally an abandoned bus used as a resting place for locals, the vehicle was transformed into the iconic Catbus by the Fukagawa Town Revitalization Group's' Outdoor Furnace'. Painted to resemble the Catbus from My Neighbor Totoro, the bus has been lovingly repainted every two years for over two decades, becoming a cherished symbol of the Totoro Pass.
Totoro Pass
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| The Cat Bus is in a buckwheat field |
Photo Opportunities Galore
Visitors can take photos both inside and outside the bus, capturing the playful design that perfectly mimics the animated character. Although it’s not a functioning vehicle, the Cat Bus provides a fun and nostalgic experience for fans of the film.
Photos of the Cat Bus
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| Heads up, this bus schedule is fictional |
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| Inside the Cat bus |
Panoramic Views from Totoro Pass
While the Cat Bus is undoubtedly the main attraction, the surrounding Totoro Pass Parking Area offers sweeping views of the scenic Sorachi Subprefecture. It’s the perfect spot to relax, take in the natural beauty, and create lasting memories.
Team Nicerio revisits the Cat Bus
Cat Bus and Totoro Pass Fees
It’s FREE to visit and take photos of the Catbus. It’s also FREE to park in the Totorotoge Parking Area.
Cat Bus and Totoro Pass Operating Hours
You can take a photo with the Catbus at any time of the day. However, since the area is not well-lit, it is highly recommended that you visit in the morning. The parking area is also open 24/7.
Why visit the Cat Bus?
A visit to the Catbus in Fukagawa City is a delightful journey into the world of Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro. Perched in the scenic Totorotoge Parking Area, this whimsical attraction is a favorite among anime fans and travelers alike. The Catbus, lovingly crafted from an old abandoned vehicle, captures the essence of the beloved animated character and serves as a unique photo opportunity.
Getting to the Cat Bus
Fukagawa City is located in Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island. The easiest way to get there is to fly into Sapporo City or Asahikawa City and take a train or bus to Fukagawa. Once in the city, you can take a taxi or a rental car to Totoro Pass from there. It's about a 20-minute drive from Fukagawa City.
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