Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter unveiled its set of the Great Hall in late April to a lucky group of 11-year old Potterheads from Nerima City, Tokyo.
As an homage to the same age that Harry, Ron, and Hermione originally enrolled at Hogwarts, the Studio Tour welcomed the students as the first visitors to the Great Hall. Led by an official guide, the children participated in a trial of the actual Studio Tour experience, before it opened on June 16, and learned behind-the-scenes information about the set production.
The Great Hall is one of, if not, the most recognizable sets from the Harry Potter series. This huge hall served as the setting for the sorting ceremony, many feasts, study halls, and more. Its design incorporated both traditional English architecture and magical elements to create a refined, welcoming, and mystical atmosphere.
The set at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo was crafted in the UK by the original creators and then transported to Tokyo, making its authenticity unparalleled. The massive area displays perfectly arranged dishes and utensils, the golden owl podium, the house point counter, stained glass windows, seemingly aged stonework, and even costumes of iconic characters, such as Dumbledore, Hagrid, and McGonagall. Once you pass through the commanding doorway, you will truly feel like you are not in Japan anymore.
Given the Great Hall’s mesmerizing atmosphere, it is not surprising that the children were equally spellbound. “I thought it was amazing that the space made me feel like I was in the movie,” one student remarked. “I was surprised that the set was real and not CG,” another child said. Multiple participants voiced their excitement about returning to the Studio Tour in the future.
“I think it is a great opportunity to learn how magnificent sets and movies are made,” Head of Visitor Experience, Naoki Ono shared, “I want people of all generations to come and visit.”
Learn more about Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter.
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