In the 1950s, Tatsuo Kusakabe moved himself and his daughters Satsuki and Mei to rural Japan so they could be near their mother, who was in the remote, isolated hospital for a chronic illness. As the girls adapted to country life, Mei spotted a tiny, rabbit‑like being in their bright garden one afternoon. Pursuing it into the woods, she discovered Totoro—a colossal, enchanted forest spirit that quickly became her friend. Soon Satsuki also encountered Totoro, and together the sisters" days blossomed with wonder, enchanted escapades among woodland wonders and magical creatures.