Something extremely magical is coming to Tokyo – and is set to be one of the biggest magical experiences for fans yet. Yes, tickets for Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter are now on sale.
The Tokyo branch of the Studio Tour will not only have exclusive Wizarding World treats on offer – but invites you to visit the biggest Harry Potter shop in the world as part of your visit.
As with other Studio Tours around the world, Japan-based Harry Potter fans can expect to visit authentic sets, props and costumes made by the original British filmmakers. The Studio Tour in Tokyo is a brand-new experience, and the first tour of its kind to open in Asia, where fans can step behind the scenes and discover the world of film production through the medium of witchcraft and wizardry.
For those unfamiliar with the Studio Tour, visitors will be able to visit the iconic Great Hall set, walk along the cobbled streets of Diagon Alley and traipse through the mysterious Forbidden Forest. You’ll bump into magical creatures, observe gorgeous costumes and take part in magical activities, such as broom riding and Butterbeer drinking.
Fans will also get to immerse themselves into iconic Wizarding World moments, such as appearing in a moving Hogwarts portrait or stepping into the crowd of a Quidditch match, just as if you were a wizard or witch yourself.
The Platform 9 ¾ set was created by the original Harry Potter filmmakers using authentic techniques. It’s home to the Hogwarts Express which is an original British steam locomotive that was built in 1929 called The Dumbleton Hall. Operated by the Great Western Railway, it continued to run for over 35 years until it was retired. The locomotive was refurbished in England, then shipped to Japan to take up its position at the Studio Tour.
Torben Jensen, VP and GM Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter said: “The Studio Tour is a completely new experience for Harry Potter fans in Japan and I’m so excited to open the doors on 16th June. In addition to fantastic interactive features, multiple photo opportunities and the world’s largest Harry Potter shop, the Studio Tour will exclusively showcase a number of incredible film sets that are one of a kind.”
Alongside Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts fans will be able to seek out some of their favourite locations from the films: The Great Wizarding Express, for example, is a set that is exclusive to Tokyo, which appeared in Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore.
The train carriage is art deco in styling, to match the era, and is decorated with ornate detailing throughout recreating the appearance of birdseye maple, ebony and brass inlay strips. Depicting the scene where Newt Scamander leads an intrepid team of wizards, witches, and one brave Muggle baker on a dangerous mission, the mannequins display the costumes of Newt Scamander, Jacob Kowalski, Theseus Scamander, Bunty Broadacre, Yusuf Kama and Eulalia “Lally” Hicks.
The Studio Tour will also be home to the largest Harry Potter shop in the world, featuring 14 themed sections that are decorated with over 7,000 bespoke and specially sourced props. The areas are beautifully designed and take inspiration from elements of the shops on Diagon Alley including Honeydukes, Ollivanders and Flourish and Blotts.
A huge range of products will be available to buy, many of which have been exclusively developed for Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo. In addition, visitors can enjoy a choice of restaurants and cafés which will serve a celebration of traditional British fare such as fish and chips, roast beef, English breakfast and Afternoon Tea. Delicious.
Get ready for a summer of magical delights out in Tokyo! It’s going to be a big one.
Tickets for Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo will be on sale from Wednesday 22nd March at 2pm JST, available to purchase for visits between 16th June to the 30th September, 2023. Visit the official website for details.