Hayao Miyazaki's films are renowned for their enchanting worlds and compelling narratives, where unique and symbolic vehicles traverse fantastical landscapes. Miyazaki continues to captivate its audience with cinematic masterpieces, just like the latest addition, "The Boy and the Heron", if you haven't seen it yet, we highly recommend it. Just as his main characters leave a lasting impression, it's the vehicles that also transform into significant symbols within his narratives; each one weaving seamlessly into the narrative fabric, enriching the storytelling experience for audiences of all ages. 
Castle of Cagliostro (1979): Lupin's Fiat 500In Miyazaki's first theatrical feature, "Castle of Cagliostro," Lupin's little yellow Fiat 500 takes center stage in a thrilling mountain road chase sequence. Miyazaki, previously known for his work as an animator, including his contributions to Lupin III, showcases his directorial prowess with this iconic scene. Legend has it that Steven Spielberg, after a screening at the Cannes Film Festival, dubbed the chase sequence as one of the greatest ever filmed.
On Your Mark (1997): Alfa Romeo Giulietta SpiderBefore the screening of Hayao Miyazaki’s 1997 animated film "Princess Mononoke," the japanese filmmaker treated audiences to the short film/music video "On Your Mark." This seven-minute sci-fi odyssey, set to the song of the same name by the Japanese band Chage & Aska, unfolds after an undetermined point in the future following a nuclear disaster. A mysterious Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider becomes a symbol of resilience in this curiously disjointed yet captivating narrative.
My Neighbor Totoro (1988): CatbusThe Catbus is one of Studio Ghibli's most memorable and iconic vehicles. It firstly appears in "My Neighbor Totoro'' as, literally, a cat-shaped bus to transport Satsuki in search of her missing little sister Mei. Given its popularity over the years, the Studio dedicated him even a short film "Mei and the Kittenbus" in 2002: here Granny Cat stands out as an extraordinary Catbus. Much larger than normal Catbuses, she has multiple decks and a tail that acts as a propeller. Granny Cat becomes a whimsical mode of transportation for Mei, highlighting the magical and friendly nature of the Ghibli universe.
Spirited Away (2001): The Ogino Family's Audi A4 QuattroIn Spirited Away, the Ogino family's Audi A4 Quattro takes center stage, emphasizing the family's western-oriented sense of consumption. This unique vehicle, thanks to its special AWD Quattro feature, smoothly navigates the old road to the Spirit Realm. The car, with the number ^19-01, becomes a symbol not only of physical transportation but also of cultural contrasts within the narrative.
The Secret World of Arrietty (2010): Haru's Red CarHaru's vibrant red car, possibly a Mitsubishi Mirage or Toyota Vitz, plays a subtle yet significant role in the film. It serves as a visual cue, blocking the driveway and causing frustration for Sadako Maki, highlighting the clash of lifestyles between the characters. The car becomes a backdrop for the interpersonal dynamics in this secret world.
Sadako's 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190Aunt Sadako's silver 1989 Mercedes-Benz 190 is another symbol of affluence and sophistication. Seen when dropping off Sho at the house, this luxury car contrasts with the modest surroundings, emphasizing the societal disparities portrayed in the film.
