Zen and Ghibli

How Studio Ghibli films can change your life: an exploration of Zen Buddhism through the films of the iconic anime studio.

In Zen and Ghibli, legendary producer Toshio Suzuki talks about Zen Buddhism in Studio Ghibli films with three leading Buddhist monks: Shinsuke Hosokawa, Nanrei Yokota and Sokyu Gen'yu. Their playful and enlivening conversations delve into central Buddhist ideas, such as the power of not knowing, how important it is to live in the present, and whether we can ever be original in our thoughts or actions, through reference to many Ghibli masterpieces such as Princess Mononoke and Howl's Moving Castle. Beautifully illustrated with Japanese artwork and stills from the films, Zen and Ghibli is an inspiring introduction to Zen Buddhism and a fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse into Toshio Suzuki's work with Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. Capturing the magic of the films, it is both a celebration of Studio Ghibli and an illuminating guide to happiness.