Everyone’s Obsessed with Studio Ghibli Aesthetics—Here’s Why It’s Everywhere!

From cozy, sunlit kitchens to breathtaking landscapes filled with whimsical creatures, Studio Ghibli’s signature aesthetic has captured hearts worldwide. What started as an animation style in beloved films like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away has now exploded into a full-fledged global trend. Governments, politicians, and major brands are embracing the Ghibli magic, making it impossible to ignore. But how did this Japanese animation studio’s distinct style become a worldwide cultural movement?

In an unexpected twist, even world leaders are tapping into the Ghibli aesthetic to connect with people. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, known for its strong push for cultural nationalism, has subtly incorporated the Ghibli-inspired visual language into various campaigns. The Swachh Bharat (Clean India) initiative, for example, has featured animated shorts with lush greenery and harmonious communities that bear an uncanny resemblance to Hayao Miyazaki’s world. The calming, picturesque depictions align with Ghibli’s themes of environmentalism and sustainability, making them resonate deeply with audiences.
Meanwhile, in the U.S., former President Donald Trump—never one to miss out on a viral trend—reportedly had discussions about incorporating an anime-inspired approach to his media campaigns. While he may not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of Ghibli, his team recognized the power of nostalgic and visually appealing storytelling. Political advertisements with warm, rustic tones and idealized American landscapes started surfacing, subtly drawing inspiration from the Ghibli aesthetic to make messages more relatable and engaging.
China’s President Xi Jinping has also jumped on the trend, leveraging Ghibli-style animation in soft power campaigns. China’s state media has released short films that mimic the dreamy, nature-centric visuals of Princess Mononoke and The Wind Rises. These animations promote themes of harmony between nature and urbanization, subtly reinforcing the government’s environmental policies and technological advancements.
Beyond politics, the corporate world has also capitalized on the Ghibli aesthetic. High-fashion brands like Gucci and Uniqlo have collaborated with Studio Ghibli to release clothing collections inspired by the films. Uniqlo’s Totoro-themed T-shirts and Gucci’s surreal, nature-infused ad campaigns evoke the whimsical essence of Ghibli’s world, creating an instant emotional connection with consumers.
Tech companies are also in on the trend. Apple’s latest ad campaign for the iPad Pro featured illustrations with soft lighting, earthy tones, and gentle movement—hallmarks of Ghibli animation. Even Google’s Doodles have adopted Ghibli-esque designs on occasion, celebrating the aesthetic’s worldwide appeal.
Instagram and TikTok have played a massive role in spreading the Ghibli aesthetic. Filters that add a “Ghibli glow” to videos, complete with warm lighting and hand-drawn textures, have gone viral. Users create content mimicking Ghibli’s storytelling style, capturing everyday moments with the studio’s signature mix of nostalgia and magic.
Artists and illustrators on platforms like Twitter and DeviantArt have also contributed to this trend by reimagining real-life cities and landmarks in the Ghibli style. The hashtag #GhibliRedraw has taken off, with creators transforming mundane urban settings into breathtaking scenes reminiscent of Kiki’s Delivery Service or Howl’s Moving Castle.
While the world has embraced the Ghibli aesthetic, how do the original creators feel about it? Hayao Miyazaki, the legendary filmmaker behind most of Ghibli’s masterpieces, has been famously critical of modern trends. Known for his strong opinions on technology and mass production, Miyazaki has expressed concern that the widespread commercialization of the Ghibli aesthetic might dilute its meaning.
However, many artists from Studio Ghibli have embraced the global fascination with their work. Toshio Suzuki, a longtime producer at the studio, has acknowledged the power of Ghibli’s influence, stating in an interview that he is “humbled and amazed” by how the art style has transcended cultures and industries. He sees it as a testament to the timelessness of hand-drawn animation and the universal appeal of heartfelt storytelling.
As for Miyazaki, while he might not love the idea of Ghibli being turned into a marketing tool, his work continues to inspire new generations of artists, politicians, and dreamers. Whether he approves or not, Studio Ghibli’s art is no longer just Japan’s treasure—it has become a global language of nostalgia, warmth, and wonder.
With world leaders, brands, and social media users all embracing the Ghibli aesthetic, it’s clear that this is more than just a passing trend. As animation and digital art continue to evolve, the timeless, hand-crafted charm of Ghibli’s work will likely remain a source of inspiration for years to come.
Whether through government campaigns, corporate branding, or personal artistic expression, Studio Ghibli’s magic is everywhere—and it shows no signs of fading away. The real question now is: What’s next for this enchanting style, and how far will it spread?