#Japan #Tokyo #Harry Potter #Back to Hogwarts #Warner Bros. Studio

Magical Day at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo

On September 1, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – Making of Harry Potter, in collaboration with Seibu Railway, hosted its first-ever special event outside the studio, dubbed "Back to Hogwarts." This occasion celebrates the beginning of a new semester at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, a moment fans eagerly anticipate each year.

Every September 1, fans around the world recognize this significant day, which traditionally involves a countdown at King's Cross Station in London, coinciding with the exact departure time of the Hogwarts Express at 11 AM. This year, 50 enthusiastic Harry Potter fans gathered at Seibu Ikebukuro Station for a magical celebration that included a special train ride to the studio tour.

Transformation of Ikebukuro Station

To make this event even more special, the 7th platform of Ikebukuro Station was transformed to resemble King's Cross Station, complete with a luggage cart similar to the one Harry and his friends used to access Platform 9¾. Dressed in a variety of wizarding costumes, fans excitedly posed for photos with the cart, creating lasting memories before embarking on their magical journey.

At 10:46 AM, the event debuted a special train wrapped in celebration of the "Back to Hogwarts" event, delighting the fans who cheered as it slowly approached the platform. As the clock struck 10:59 AM, an MC led the countdown to 11 AM, with all attendees shouting in joy, “Back to Hogwarts!” to celebrate the commencement of another Hogwarts school year in 2025. Following this heartwarming moment, attendees boarded the special train and set off towards Toshimaen Station, the nearest stop to the studio tour.

A Journey to Hogwarts

Upon arrival, fans were greeted by a newly renovated station that mirrors Hogsmeade Station, the gateway to Hogwarts, further enhancing the magical experience from the very beginning. From the moment they set foot in the station, visitors felt like real students of Hogwarts. The ultimate destination, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo, featured a food hall designed to resemble Hogwarts' Great Hall, where attendees were served a special limited-edition dish: the "Back to Hogwarts Plate," paired with the beloved Pumpkin Juice from the wizarding world. Dining within this enchanting ambiance was a dream come true for many.

The event culminated with an immersive studio tour that allowed fans to explore the behind-the-scenes secrets of filming, making it a day to remember.

Fans who attended expressed their delight and enthusiasm. A sister duo noted, "After participating in last year's countdown, we were eager to join again! Once we learned about this event involving a charter train to the studio tour, we signed up immediately." An 8-year-old boy dressed as Harry exclaimed, "It was so much fun!" while a group of friends in their twenties, who were avid Harry Potter fans, commented on the excitement of traveling from Ikebukuro to the studio, describing it as wonderfully immersive.

Fans were also thrilled about the ongoing exhibition themed around "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," eagerly anticipating the beautifully crafted displays and costumes now on view.

The first-ever "Back to Hogwarts" special event since the studio tour's opening was a resounding success, filling the hearts of countless fans with joy.

More Fun at Studio Tour Tokyo

At the Warner Bros. Studio, a countdown celebration occurred at 11 AM to honor the Hogwarts Express’s departure. The event also included exclusive food options and a commemorative merchandise collection, ensuring fans fully appreciated the magic of the day. A special treat for attendees was the chance to fly above the Hogwarts Express in a promotional image unique to this event.

Beyond this, the ongoing special event for “Goblet of Fire,” marking its 20th anniversary, showcases various iconic items from the movie, from the Triwizard Tournament’s entry sheets to costumes used on set. Don’t miss this limited-time experience, running through November 3.

“Back to Hogwarts” Details

The upcoming limited-time wrapped train, representing the "Harry Potter" universe, started operations on September 1, promoting the magical journey fans can expect. Passengers traveling on this special train will feel immersed in Hogwarts’ four houses' colors and will encounter messages that capture the moment of discovering the wizarding world.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo opened its doors on June 16, 2023. It offers fans an experience matched only by its London counterpart, with exclusive exhibition pieces and numerous activities. With multiple themed attractions within the studio, guests can look forward to a full day of magic, curiosity, and fun, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Official Website and Contact

For more details, visit the official website. Tickets must be bought in advance, and special offers are available for various engagements in the coming months.