By 2024, fans can experience a real-life version of the Catbus from the beloved film in Japan. International media outlets, such as Time Out, have reported on the character bus unveiled by Japan’s Ghibli Theme Park.
Recently, Ghibli Theme Park in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, unveiled a bus modeled after the Catbus from the famous movie My Neighbor Totoro. The multi-passenger electric bus was developed based on the APM (Automated People Mover) of Japan’s automotive company, Toyota.
The Catbus is slated to operate for about one year, from March 11, 2024, to 2025. The park plans to operate five buses, which can only be ridden within Ghibli Theme Park. The bus can move at a maximum speed of 19 km/h (approximately 11.8 mph) and accommodate up to six passengers, including the driver.
The Catbus replicates the exterior and interior of the movie. The bus seats are decorated with soft faux fur, which gives the sensation of petting a real cat.
While Ghibli Park did not disclose the bus fare and route, it is currently considering a path that does not overlap with pedestrian routes. According to the map released by Ghibli Park, the bus is expected to use the side roads of the Dondoko Forest, which recreates the house and characters from My Neighbor Totoro. A park official said, “The Catbus was designed to make traveling within the popular Ghibli Park more enjoyable and comfortable for the numerous visitors who come daily. We are preparing for full operation, including signing various contracts and recruiting operating staff from our partner, Toyosaka Transportation Co., Ltd.”
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