“My Neighbor Totoro” (となりのトトロ), Original Japanese Theatrical Movie Poster 1988, Rare, A2 Size (42 × 59 cm), O481
This is an original Japanese A2 poster printed for the first theatrical release of My Neighbor Totoro in 1988, written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. This rare, smaller-format variant was used for in-cinema and retail promotional display during the initial Toho distribution campaign — a genuine first-release artifact from the debut of what would become Studio Ghibli’s defining masterpiece.
The artwork captures the film’s most iconic moment.
The tagline above reads:
「忘れものを、届けにきました。」 (“I’ve come to deliver something forgotten.”)
A poetic phrase perfectly evoking the film’s nostalgia, nature, and innocence.
The overall composition — deep forest tones, vertical rain streaks, and the pop of red umbrella — remains one of the most recognized visual identities in Japanese cinema history.
Rarity & Context
First-issue Totoro posters are among the most coveted of all Japanese movie posters.
This A2 edition (roughly 42 × 59 cm) was printed in limited numbers and distributed only to local theaters and exhibition partners, making it even scarcer.
Reprints have circulated in recent years, but this example is guaranteed 100% original, identifiable by the paper stock, period wear, and original Toho markings.
This design has become the holy grail for both Ghibli collectors and poster connoisseurs, representing the moment when Miyazaki’s forest spirits stepped into Japan’s cultural mythology.
Condition
Excellent.
Rich, unfaded color and original gloss.
Please review the photos — they show the exact poster for sale.
Summary
This poster is an original Japanese theatrical A2 from the 1988 first-release campaign of My Neighbor Totoro.
It is not a reproduction or reprint.
It is over 36 years old.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
A timeless piece of animation and design history — smaller in size but monumental in significance. Perfect for framing and display in any Ghibli, cinema, or Japanese art collection.
