For decades, Studio Ghibli fans in North America have admired the legendary animation studio from afar, often relying on imported merchandise or special convention exclusives to celebrate beloved films like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Kiki’s Delivery Service. Now, the iconic studio is bringing a piece of that magic directly to American audiences for the very first time.
Studio Ghibli has officially announced that Donguri Republic, its famous official merchandise store, will open its first-ever United States location on June 23, 2026, according to Crunchyroll. The limited-time store will operate at the Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance, California, near Los Angeles, giving fans a rare opportunity to experience an authentic Ghibli shopping destination without traveling overseas.
Studio Ghibli’s Official Store Finally Arrives in America
Donguri Republic has long been a staple attraction for Ghibli fans visiting Japan and other parts of Asia. The stores are known not only for their merchandise but also for their immersive atmosphere. The Los Angeles-area location aims to recreate that experience with detailed decorations, nature-inspired interiors, and displays inspired by the studio’s most beloved films.
One of the biggest attractions will be a large Totoro installation featuring the iconic character waiting at a bus stop for the Catbus. The themed environment is designed to feel like stepping into a Ghibli film, making the location as much a destination for photos and sightseeing as it is a retail store.
Visitors will also be able to browse more than 400 officially licensed products. Merchandise will represent a wide range of Ghibli classics, including My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Howl’s Moving Castle, and Spirited Away. Exclusive shopping incentives will be available as well, including a commemorative Los Angeles tote bag for customers who spend $100 or more while supplies last.
A Big Year for Ghibli Fans Beyond the New Store
The timing of the store opening coincides with another major event for North American fans: Studio Ghibli Fest 2026. Organized by GKIDS and Fathom Entertainment, the annual celebration brings classic Ghibli films back to theaters across the United States and Canada. This year’s lineup begins with Ponyo and includes fan favorites such as Castle in the Sky and Spirited Away.
The festival continues to be one of the few opportunities for audiences to experience these films on the big screen in both Japanese-language and English-dubbed presentations. Fans attending screenings can also receive special movie-themed bookmarks through qualifying purchases at the new Donguri Republic location, creating a connection between the theatrical event and the store experience.
A Lost Piece Of Studio Ghibli History Is Finally Releasing This September
As Studio Ghibli’s legacy continues to grow, fans will soon get a rare behind-the-scenes look at the creation of the studio’s most iconic films.
Meanwhile, anticipation remains high for the next project from legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki. Although The Boy and the Heron was originally expected to be his final feature film, Miyazaki later returned to work on another movie. Nearly three years after that announcement, Studio Ghibli has yet to reveal any important details about the project, leaving fans eagerly awaiting updates.
Until then, the new Donguri Republic store may be the closest thing to stepping inside a Studio Ghibli world. The temporary venue will remain open through December 31, 2026, giving American fans just over six months to experience a milestone that once seemed impossible. For a studio whose stories have captivated audiences for more than four decades, opening its first official U.S. store feels like a landmark moment, and one worth celebrating.