My Neighbor Totoro, a timeless masterpiece from Studio Ghibli and the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, continues to enchant audiences worldwide. This beloved animated film is filled with whimsical characters and enchanting mysteries, leaving viewers with delightful questions. Let’s delve into some of the most frequently asked questions about Totoro and the iconic Cat Bus, unraveling the magic behind this cinematic gem.
What Exactly is Totoro?
Totoro defies simple categorization. He’s been described as everything from a “giant furry creature” to a “rabbit-like spirit,” but at his core, Totoro is a spirit of the forest. He is a being deeply connected to nature, embodying the wonder and mystery of the woods. Interestingly, Totoro isn’t rooted in traditional Japanese folklore; he sprang directly from Miyazaki’s boundless imagination. However, his design is clearly inspired by a charming blend of animals: the raccoon-like Tanuki (with their stout bodies and gentle demeanor), cats (evident in his pointed ears and expressive face), and owls (notice the chevron markings on his chest and the owl-like “ooo-ing” sounds he makes with his ocarina during the night).
The name “Totoro” itself is a charming example of childhood mispronunciation. It originates from Mei, the younger sister, mishearing “tororu,” the Japanese word for “troll.” In a heartwarming scene, Satsuki, the older sister, asks, “Totoro? You mean, the Troll in our book?” She’s referencing their picture book, “Three Mountain Goats” (a playful nod to “The Three Billy Goats Gruff”). If you watch closely during the closing credits, you can catch a glimpse of their mother reading this very book to them. The movie’s picture book further solidifies this connection, depicting a goat crossing a bridge with a Totoro-esque troll lurking beneath – a subtle yet delightful detail for keen observers.
Are There Different Types of Totoros?
Yes, Totoro isn’t just one entity, but rather a family of forest spirits! They come in different sizes, each with their own distinct characteristics:
- Big Totoro (Gray): Known as Oh-Totoro, he’s the largest and often considered the “King Totoro” in some translations. He’s the iconic image most people conjure when they think of Totoro – a gentle giant with a deep connection to the forest.
- Medium Totoro (Blue): Chuu-Totoro, the medium-sized blue Totoro, is often seen accompanying Oh-Totoro. “Chuu” in Japanese signifies “medium,” perfectly describing his size and role.
- Little Totoro (White): Chibi-Totoro, the smallest and white Totoro, is the most diminutive and often the most playful. “Chibi” means “small” in Japanese, and he certainly lives up to his name with his tiny stature.
While all three are Totoros, when people generally refer to “Totoro,” they are usually thinking of Oh-Totoro, the large gray spirit who becomes Mei and Satsuki’s magical friend.
Are There More Totoros Beyond These Three?
Miyazaki’s artistic vision extends beyond the main trio. Some of his watercolor paintings depict a delightful scene: a Cat Bus overflowing with Totoros arriving at the bus stop where Mei and Satsuki patiently wait for their father. This playful image hints at a whole community of these forest spirits, suggesting that Totoro and his companions are just a glimpse into a larger, unseen world of magical beings inhabiting the forests.
What is the Cat Bus in My Neighbor Totoro?
The Cat Bus (Neko Bus in Japanese) is one of the most imaginative and beloved creations from My Neighbor Totoro. It’s precisely what its name suggests: a bus that is also a cat, or perhaps, a cat that has transformed itself into a bus! This whimsical creature perfectly embodies the magical realism of Miyazaki’s world. In Japanese folklore, it’s believed that cats, upon reaching a certain age, gain magical shape-shifting abilities, becoming “Bake Neko.” This term, “Bake Neko,” literally translates to “monster cat” or “changed cat,” and it speaks to the mystical and transformative nature attributed to older cats. Interestingly, “Bake Neko” is also the nickname of Moon, the cat in another Ghibli film, “Whisper of the Heart,” further solidifying this connection within Miyazaki’s universe.
The Cat Bus is envisioned as a Bake Neko who, captivated by the idea of a bus, decided to transform itself into one. This explains its feline features – the furry body, the whiskered face, the multiple legs acting as wheels, and even mice that light up as headlights! While the Cat Bus is a completely original design by Miyazaki, some have drawn parallels to the Cheshire Cat from “Alice in Wonderland,” noting the shared element of fantastical, shape-shifting felines that guide characters on their journeys. Furthermore, Mei’s adventure of following Chibi-Totoro and tumbling down a hole in a tree does echo Alice’s fall down the rabbit hole, adding another layer of subtle “Alice in Wonderland” inspiration to the film’s narrative. The Cat Bus, with its unique blend of feline and vehicular characteristics, has become an unforgettable symbol of My Neighbor Totoro and Studio Ghibli’s imaginative storytelling.
What Does the Destination Sign on the Cat Bus Say?
The destination sign on the Cat Bus isn’t static; it changes to reflect its current journey and purpose, adding another layer of whimsical detail to this magical vehicle. In the initial encounter at the bus stop, when Satsuki and Mei first see the Cat Bus, the sign reads “Tsukamori.” Tsukamori is the name of the forest where Totoro resides, indicating the Cat Bus’s usual route and connection to the forest spirit’s domain.
Later, in a moment of urgency, when Satsuki desperately seeks Mei, the Cat Bus appears displaying “Tsukamori” again. However, it quickly cycles through various names like “Nagasawa” or “Ushinuma,” before finally settling on “Mei.” This dynamic display highlights the Cat Bus’s ability to adapt and respond to the needs of the characters, showcasing its almost sentient nature. When they successfully locate Mei, the destination sign changes once more to “Shichikokuyama Byouin (Shichikokuyama Hospital).” This destination reveals the Cat Bus’s compassionate purpose: to transport Satsuki and Mei to their ailing mother in the hospital. Intriguingly, observant viewers have noted that the kanji for “in” in “Byouin” (hospital) is sometimes displayed upside down on the sign. This humorous detail suggests that the Cat Bus, despite its magical abilities, might still be learning or perhaps playfully disregarding the intricacies of kanji, adding a touch of endearing imperfection to this fantastical creature.
Who are the Dust Bunnies in My Neighbor Totoro?
Dust bunnies, those fleeting balls of fluff that gather in dusty corners, take on a whimsical and slightly spooky form in My Neighbor Totoro. These small, black, fuzzy creatures, about the size of ping-pong balls, are known as “Makkuro Kurosuke” in Japanese. A literal translation of this name would be “Pitch-black Blackie,” perfectly capturing their appearance.
In the original Japanese version, when Satsuki and Mei first encounter these soot sprites in their new home, they attempt to scare them away with a rather direct and slightly alarming chant: “Makkuro Kurosuke, come out! Or we’ll poke your eyeballs out!” This children’s rhyme, while perhaps startling to modern audiences, reflects a more traditional, less sanitized approach to children’s folklore. Recognizing that this might not resonate well with contemporary sensibilities, the English dub softened the phrase to a simpler and gentler “come out… come out…”.
Kanta’s Granny, a wise and knowledgeable neighbor, provides a more formal and comforting name for these creatures: “Susuwatari,” meaning “Traveling Soot.” She reassures the girls that the Susuwatari are harmless and will soon move on. Indeed, true to Granny’s words, the Dust Bunnies, or Susuwatari, relocate from the house to Totoro’s camphor tree during the night, highlighting their transient nature and connection to the natural world. This detail reinforces the film’s themes of respecting nature and understanding the ephemeral presence of magical beings.
What Illness Does the Mother Have in My Neighbor Totoro?
While never explicitly stated in the film, it’s strongly implied that the girls’ mother is suffering from tuberculosis (TB). The novelized version of “Totoro,” illustrated by Miyazaki himself, confirms this, stating that Mom is indeed battling TB. Shichikokuyama Hospital, where she is staying, is depicted as a reputable institution for treating TB, which is the primary reason the family relocates to the countryside near the hospital.
The history of their new house also subtly points to this diagnosis. Granny explains that the house was originally built by a wealthy city dweller for his wife who also suffered from TB. Granny herself worked as a domestic servant for this woman, who sadly passed away. This backstory explains why the house stands out from the more traditional village homes, featuring a more Westernized design with gables, reflecting the preferences of its original, affluent owner seeking a healthier environment for his wife.
This element of the story holds a poignant autobiographical connection to Miyazaki’s own life. His mother endured a long battle with spinal tuberculosis, spending a significant period away from home for treatment. This personal experience likely informed the sensitive and nuanced portrayal of illness and family separation in My Neighbor Totoro, adding a layer of emotional depth to the narrative.
What is the Father’s Profession in My Neighbor Totoro?
The girls’ father, Mr. Kusakabe, is portrayed as a university professor specializing in archaeology. His profession is subtly woven into the narrative, explaining his intellectual curiosity and his open-mindedness towards Mei and Satsuki’s encounters with the fantastical. His work also necessitates commuting to the university in Tokyo, highlighting the blend of rural and urban life that characterizes the setting of My Neighbor Totoro.
What is the Significance of the Rope on Totoro’s Tree?
The rope adorning Totoro’s massive camphor tree is a Shimenawa, a sacred rope made of rice straw and adorned with paper streamers. This Shimenawa is not merely a decorative element; it’s a powerful symbol signifying that the tree is considered sacred within the context of Shintoism, the indigenous religion of Japan. Shintoism emphasizes the worship of nature and ancestors, and Shimenawa ropes are used to demarcate sacred spaces and objects, indicating the presence of Kami, or spirits.
When the father and the girls bow before the tree, they are participating in a traditional Shinto practice, expressing gratitude to the spirit of the trees and the forest for protecting Mei and welcoming them to their new home. The Totoros themselves, in this context, can be seen as physical manifestations of the spirit of the forest and trees, embodying the life force and protective energy of nature. The presence of an old, abandoned Shinto shrine near the camphor tree and a Torii gate (the traditional gateway to a Shinto shrine) at the entrance to the hill further reinforces the strong Shinto undertones within the film, grounding Totoro’s magical world in Japanese cultural and spiritual traditions.
What is the Meaning of the Small Roadside Shrine Where Satsuki and Mei Take Shelter from the Rain?
The small roadside shrine where Satsuki and Mei seek refuge from the rain is a Jizo shrine. These small shrines are a common sight in Japan, particularly in rural areas, and are rooted in Japanese Buddhism. Traditionally, Jizo shrines are often erected as memorials to children who have passed away. The central figure in these shrines is Ojizou-sama, a Bodhisattva revered as a patron deity and protector of children, travelers, and the vulnerable.
When Satsuki and Mei put their hands together in prayer and bow before the Ojizou-sama statue, they are engaging in a common Buddhist practice, seeking permission and blessings from Ojizou-sama to shelter at the shrine until the rain subsides. This scene highlights the children’s respect for local customs and their implicit faith in the protective presence of Ojizou-sama. Later in the film, when Mei becomes lost, she is found sitting amongst a row of Ojizou-sama statues. This poignant image, according to Miyazaki, is a visual reassurance to the audience that Mei is safe and under the watchful care of these benevolent deities, reinforcing the film’s gentle and reassuring tone even in moments of anxiety.
Where Does the Story of My Neighbor Totoro Take Place?
The enchanting world of My Neighbor Totoro is geographically grounded in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture, Japan. This location holds personal significance for Hayao Miyazaki, as he himself resides in Tokorozawa. In the film, the lush landscapes and rural atmosphere are directly inspired by the Sayama Hills surrounding Tokorozawa. Historically, Tokorozawa was a farming community, but it has gradually transformed into a bedroom community of Tokyo as urban sprawl expanded.
Despite development, pockets of natural beauty remain in Tokorozawa, and a dedicated conservation effort, known as the “Totoro no Furusato (Totoro’s Home) National Trust Movement,” is actively working to preserve these remaining green spaces. This movement, using Totoro as its symbolic mascot, aims to protect the environment that inspired Miyazaki’s masterpiece. Miyazaki himself has been a strong supporter of this movement, donating watercolor paintings of Totoro for use in pamphlets, membership materials, and merchandise. He also made a substantial financial contribution to Tokorozawa City, enabling the purchase of land slated for development, directly contributing to the preservation of “Totoro’s Home.”
When is My Neighbor Totoro Set?
The timeline of My Neighbor Totoro is intentionally somewhat vague, described loosely as the latter part of the 1950s, a time “before televisions were common in homes,” according to Miyazaki. However, eagle-eyed viewers have pinpointed 1958 as the exact year, based on a subtle clue within the film. In a hospital scene, a calendar is briefly visible, showing the month of August. Examining calendars from the 1950s reveals that only the years 1952 and 1958 began the month of August on a Friday. Given the broader cultural context and the film’s overall aesthetic, 1958 aligns more closely with the intended period setting. This meticulous attention to detail enriches the film’s immersive quality.
Who is the Girl Pictured with Totoro at the Bus Stop in Some Images?
You might have encountered images depicting Totoro alongside a single girl at a bus stop. This girl is neither Mei nor Satsuki specifically, but rather a conceptual amalgamation of both sisters. In the initial stages of developing My Neighbor Totoro, Miyazaki envisioned only one main character, a six-year-old girl. Early watercolor concept art from “The Art of Totoro” predominantly features this single girl.
However, before production commenced, Miyazaki made the decision to split this character into two sisters: Satsuki, the older sister, and Mei, the younger one. This evolution is reflected in their names. “Mei” is a Japanized pronunciation of the English word “May,” while “Satsuki” is an archaic Japanese term for the fifth month of the year, which is also May. Despite this change to two sisters in the final film, Studio Ghibli has continued to utilize the image of the single girl with Totoro for promotional purposes, including movie posters. This persistent use of the older concept art has likely led to some confusion among viewers who are introduced to the film through these images.
What is the Crab Drawing in Satsuki’s Letter to Her Mother?
The charming drawing of a crab featured in Satsuki’s letter to her mother is a reference to the Japanese folktale “Saru Kani Gassen” (Monkey-Crab Battle). This traditional story tells of a crab who diligently plants a persimmon seed and patiently watches over it, eagerly awaiting its sprouting. Satsuki playfully observes that Mei is behaving similarly, impatiently waiting for their mother’s return.
To illustrate this comparison, Satsuki draws a picture of a crab resembling Mei and humorously names it “Mei Gani” (Mei Crab). This cultural nuance, deeply rooted in Japanese folklore, might not readily translate to audiences unfamiliar with “Saru Kani Gassen.” Therefore, the English dub opted for a more general and universally understandable line: “Mei drew this picture for you,” sacrificing the specific cultural reference for broader comprehension.
Is My Neighbor Totoro Available in English?
Yes, My Neighbor Totoro is readily available in English and has a rich history of English dubs. The initial English dub was produced by Carl Macek (Streamline Pictures) and received a theatrical release in the US by Troma Pictures in 1993. Video, LaserDisc (LD), and DVD releases followed through Fox. This Streamline dub is widely considered excellent, even earning praise from those who are generally critical of Macek’s dubbing work. This early dub was even included in the Ghibli LD Box Set, featuring English audio on the right analog track.
Later, Disney acquired the global distribution rights for Studio Ghibli films, including Totoro. Their version, however, faced delays due to legal complexities and was eventually released in March 2006. The Disney DVD release features a new English dub with opening and closing songs performed by Sonya Isaacs. Like all Disney Ghibli releases, the original Japanese audio track is also included, offering viewers a choice between dubs and the original Japanese version with subtitles.
Were Any Scenes Cut from the English Dub of Totoro?
No, despite some rumors to the contrary, no scenes were cut from either the Streamline dub or the Disney dub of My Neighbor Totoro. The film remains intact in its English language versions.
Is the Image Quality of the English Dub Inferior to the Japanese LaserDisc?
The question of image quality is nuanced and depends on the specific versions being compared. The Japanese LaserDisc (LD) release was letterboxed, preserving the original aspect ratio, while the initial American LD and videocassette releases were not. However, the Japanese LD was noted for being somewhat darker in overall picture, meaning the American LD offered a brighter image. This difference was addressed in the remastered Ghibli LD box set, which presented sharper and improved image quality compared to both the older Japanese and American LD releases. Therefore, the image quality debate is less about dub versus original and more about specific releases and remastering efforts over time.
Will There Ever Be a Sequel to My Neighbor Totoro?
No, a direct sequel to My Neighbor Totoro is highly unlikely. Hayao Miyazaki is generally averse to creating sequels, expressing a preference for exploring new stories and themes rather than revisiting past works. Furthermore, Miyazaki has stated that Satsuki and Mei would not encounter Totoro again after the events of the film. He intentionally avoided depicting them with Totoro in the ending credits, instead showing them playing with other children in their everyday lives.
According to Miyazaki’s vision, the encounter with Totoro was a unique and transformative experience within a specific time and place. He suggests that remaining in Totoro’s world would prevent them from fully returning to their human lives. Once their mother comes home and life normalizes, they transition back to being ordinary children. The memory and knowledge of Totoro’s existence, however, remains a precious and sufficient magic in their lives.
What is “Mei and the Kittenbus” Then?
While not a sequel to My Neighbor Totoro, “Mei and the Kittenbus” (Mei to Konekobasu) is a delightful short film created by Miyazaki and shown exclusively at the Studio Ghibli Museum in Japan. This short film expands upon the world of Totoro, featuring Mei and a smaller, equally charming Kittenbus, suggesting further adventures in the magical forest and offering a glimpse into the ongoing enchantment of Totoro’s world.
Where Can I Buy Totoro Toys and Merchandise?
The enduring popularity of My Neighbor Totoro ensures that Totoro toys and merchandise remain widely available. Anime importers and retailers specializing in Japanese animation goods are excellent sources. Online marketplaces and specialized stores listed in resources like shopping guides dedicated to anime merchandise also offer a wide selection of Totoro-themed products. The timeless appeal of Totoro guarantees that toys and related items will likely remain in stock and accessible for years to come.
Was My Neighbor Totoro Originally Released as a Double Feature with “Grave of the Fireflies”?
Yes, My Neighbor Totoro and “Grave of the Fireflies” were indeed released as a double feature in Japan. This pairing was born out of necessity and a degree of perceived risk. At the time, there was uncertainty about the commercial appeal of “Totoro,” described as “a movie about two little kids and a monster in rural Japan.” It was considered a significant financial gamble.
However, Miyazaki and the editors of “Animage” magazine were deeply committed to bringing “Totoro,” a long-cherished personal project of Miyazaki’s, to life. To mitigate the financial risk, they conceived the idea of a double feature. “Grave of the Fireflies,” based on a well-known novel with recognized “educational” value, was expected to draw a certain audience. (Indeed, “Grave of the Fireflies” was subsequently chosen by numerous school boards as a film to screen for students, with “Totoro” included as part of the package.)
Toshio Suzuki, then the chief editor of “Animage” (and now the president of Studio Ghibli), approached Shinchosha, the publishing company of the novel “Grave of the Fireflies.” Shinchosha, seeking to venture into the movie industry, agreed to produce “Grave of the Fireflies.” Both Tokuma Shoten (Studio Ghibli’s parent company at the time) and Shinchosha were aware that the theatrical release might result in financial losses, but they proceeded with the project nonetheless. They did, in fact, experience financial losses from the initial theatrical run. Therefore, it’s a historical footnote that without the pairing with the somber and poignant “Grave of the Fireflies,” the heartwarming and magical “My Neighbor Totoro” might never have been brought to the screen.
