Studio Ghibli Museum Rescued By Citizens On First 24 Hours Of 200-Day Campaign
Image via astarik / Shutterstock.com
Earlier this year, it had been reported that the Studio Ghibli Museum in Japan had taken a considerable financial hit, with the pandemic preventing visitors from visiting the establishment.
Last week, the city of Mitaka in Tokyo launched a crowdfunding campaign, requesting donations of US$45, which could be used as tax write-offs. In just the first 24 hours, the city’s goal of US$90,000 was reached, with the campaign garnering over US$200,000 to date, as per ANN. The campaign will continue running for 197 days.
According to Kotaku, the museum was shuttered temporarily from February to July last year, due to COVID-19. This year, it was closed again from April to June, incurring even more revenue loss.
To gather support, the city of Mitaka offered to deliver exclusive merchandise to donators, featuring a Hayao Miyazaki-designed mascot named Poki.
The numerous displays and exhibits require regular upkeep, and without enough revenue to keep the establishment afloat, it fell into disrepair. The funds raised from the crowdfunding campaign will go towards these repair and maintenance costs.
If you’re unable to travel to Japan anytime soon to have a look inside the museum in person, take a virtual tour of the iconic museum right here.
[via Kotaku, cover image via astarik / Shutterstock.com]
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