Official Studio Ghibli retailer Donguri Sora has returned the My Neighbor Totoro zip-up hoodie, featuring original illustrations by acclaimed director Hayao Miyazaki, to its online store. All proceeds from sales of the lightweight garment will go to Hayao Miyazaki's environmental foundation, the Totoro Foundation.
Donguri Sora's latest Ghibli restock is a tribute to the beautiful natural world of My Neighbor Totoro, with all proceeds from sales going to protect the environment the 1988 animated classic so wittily depicts. On sale are two versions of the lightweight zip-up hoodie featuring original illustrations by the acclaimed director. The chest features Totoro with a backpack, accompanied by a soot goblin, while the back features two additional chibi Totoros and a sapling that will surely grow into a full-blown oak tree if encouraged enough.
Studio Ghibli's My Neighbor Totoro hoodie can be purchased for good
The 100% cotton hoodies come in navy or grey and are available in medium and large sizes. Each costs 6,600 yen (~$46) and are described as thin and easy to layer, with a “lightweight” design that’s suitable for adults who want to show off their love of anime in a more subtle way. All proceeds will go to Miyazaki’s environmental foundation, the Totoro Foundation.
Donguri Sora has been ramping up its merchandise in recent months, with a particular focus on My Neighbor Totoro and Kiki's Delivery Service. The retailer previously reissued a Totoro quartz clock and brought back the Totoro watermelon planter just in time for Japan's hot summer. One standout is a faithful recreation of Satsuki and Mei's family home, complete with functional lights, hidden Totoro chibis, and mini futons.
Hayao Miyazaki's love for nature and environmental protection goes beyond his films.
Miyazaki's love of nature is well known, and environmental conservation appears as a central theme in works such as Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind and Princess Mononoke, so it's no surprise that the Ghibli director has been instrumental in preserving the natural beauty of his hometown. The Totoro no Furusato Foundation, or Totoro Foundation, is a foundation established by the director with the aim of preserving the natural beauty and cultural assets of Sayama Hills and the surrounding areas in Saitama Prefecture. Sayama Hills is where the author drew inspiration for the idyllic countryside life in My Neighbor Totoro and has since become closely associated with the classic animated film.
Miyazaki's foundation was established through a dispute between local Waseda University and activists over plans to expand the campus. By 1990, the Totoro Hometown Foundation Committee was established, advocating for the preservation of Sayama Hills and the rich nature of Saitama Prefecture. The natural areas that inspired the creation of My Neighbor Totoro were marked and the Tototo no Mori, or Totoro Forest Preserve, was established. The area has several attractions, such as the Kurosuke House – an old building filled with Totoro memorabilia – which serves as the Sayama Hills Museum and the Totoro Foundation. Visitors can also visit Hachikokuyama Park, which is said to have inspired the same hospital featured in the film.
Source: Donguri Sora's grey and navy hoodie list
