If you’re a Studio Ghibli fan in Japan, you’re probably already aware of the animation studio’s merch paradise Donguri Kyowakoku. They have every type of item imaginable, all with awesome references to Studio Ghibli, such as character motifs, and even direct replicas of props from the movies.

The goods wonderland has a range of sub-brands that specialise in certain areas. There’s one called GBL (taken from the word Ghibli), that specialises in ‘American casual’ style. These stores sell clothing and accessories with street fashion in mind.

Apart from wearable items, they have even started selling Studio Ghibli-inspired skateboard decks, featuring various fan favourite characters and scenes. This month two new designs have been announced.

The first one incorporates a memorable scene from My Neighbor Totoro into the deck’s design. It’s the first time that Mei meets Totoro and plays on his big, fluffy stomach. A forest green has been chosen for the background colour which fits the vibe perfectly.

The second one features Jiji, the black cat from Kiki’s Delivery Service. The background is bright red and yellow, inspired by Tombo’s bike propellor in the animation.

Each deck costs 13,200 yen, and is sold as just the deck, not a full skateboard, so the other hardware such as trucks and wheels must be bought separately. The decks are made of maple wood sourced from Canada to make them lightweight and durable.

These boards can be picked up from GBL Miyashita Park (Tokyo), Donguri Kyowakoku Shinsaibashi (Osaka), and GBL’s online store.


By - grape Japan editorial staff.