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Moomin World
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Moomin World (Finnish: Muumimaailma, Swedish: Muminvärlden) is a theme park based on the Moomin books by Finnish writer Tove Jansson. It was designed by Dennis Livson,[2] and is located on the island of Kailo next to the old town of Naantali, in Southwest Finland.

Key Information

The blueberry-coloured Moomin House is the main attraction of the park, where guests are permitted to visit all five storeys. The full-size moominhouse was built in 1993 to look like Jansson's own earlier drawings of the house. Hemulen's house is located next to the Moomin House. It is also possible to go to, for example, Moominmamma's kitchen, the fire station, Snufkin's camp, and Moominpappa's boat. Visitors can also meet Moomin characters around the park or the Witch in her cottage.

Moomin World is not a traditional amusement park, as it does not have any rides. There are numerous activities and paths including Toffle's Path with the Witch's Labyrinth, The Hattifatteners' Cave and The Groke's House. There are also performances in the covered outdoor Moomin theatre Emma.

Moomin World is open daily from mid-June to mid-August.

Kailo island
Theatre Emma

Accolades

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Moomin World was called the world's fourth best theme park for children according to The Independent on Sunday (October 2005). Moomin World was elected as the domestic travel destination of 2005 (Matkamessut, Finnish Travel Fair 2006). Moomin World won the Golden Pony Award 2007 by The Games & Parks Industry magazine: the jury said that "Moomin World is welcoming, well themed and full of educational content."

In Japan

[edit]
Main article: Metsä (theme park)

Metsä ('forest' in Finnish) is a Nordic-themed entertainment park in Hanno city, northwest of Tokyo, Japan. It was opened in March 2019, and includes an area called Moominvalley Park, the first Moomin theme park to be located outside Finland.[3] Metsä was initially planned to start operation in 2015 for the 100th birth year of Tove Jansson,[4] but on June 30, 2015, it was announced that this would be delayed to 2017.[5] On December 6, 2016, the opening date was further pushed back to spring 2019.[6]

[edit]
  • Fisherman Aron Lehtonen's memorial plaque on Kailo island in Naantali. Lehtonen lived in Kailo until CE.1928.
    Fisherman Aron Lehtonen's memorial plaque on Kailo island in Naantali. Lehtonen lived in Kailo until CE.1928.
  • Fillyjonk, Moominworld, Finland
    Fillyjonk, Moominworld, Finland
  • Hattivatje in Moomin World, Naantali.
    Hattivatje in Moomin World, Naantali.
  • The stake with the barometer of the Hatifnatten from the volume Finn Family Moomintroll
    The stake with the barometer of the Hatifnatten from the volume Finn Family Moomintroll
  • Hemulen in Moomin World, Naantali.
    Hemulen in Moomin World, Naantali.
  • Hemuli's house
    Hemuli's house
  • Inside the Moominhouse
    Inside the Moominhouse
  • Kailo island in winter.
    Kailo island in winter.
  • The waterfall and the bridge over it in Moomin World.
    The waterfall and the bridge over it in Moomin World.
  • A sign in the Moomin House, Naantali's Moomin world, which translates "Stop running, the smell of Moomin momma's jam rises from the basement to your nose, remember to go carefully!"
    A sign in the Moomin House, Naantali's Moomin world, which translates "Stop running, the smell of Moomin momma's jam rises from the basement to your nose, remember to go carefully!"
  • Mamma's Kitchen sign
    Mamma's Kitchen sign
  • Moomin Valley from the Moominhouse, leading down to the sea and further islands
    Moomin Valley from the Moominhouse, leading down to the sea and further islands
  • Moominmamma and Moominpappa
    Moominmamma and Moominpappa
  • Moomin World in Naantali. Common reed in brackish water (Baltic Sea). Kailo island.
    Moomin World in Naantali. Common reed in brackish water (Baltic Sea). Kailo island.
  • Moomin's house in Muumimaailma (Moomin World) in Naantali, Finland
    Moomin's house in Muumimaailma (Moomin World) in Naantali, Finland
  • Moomin swimming room in Moomin World, Naantali.
    Moomin swimming room in Moomin World, Naantali.
  • Moomin train in front of the pontoon bridge.
    Moomin train in front of the pontoon bridge.
  • The Moomin house (in the background, blue) and Hemul's house (yellow, on the right)
    The Moomin house (in the background, blue) and Hemul's house (yellow, on the right)
  • The Witch from Moomins
    The Witch from Moomins
  • Niisku and the flight rattle in the play Teatteri Emma
    Niisku and the flight rattle in the play Teatteri Emma
  • The Moomin House dining room in Moomin World, Naantali.
    The Moomin House dining room in Moomin World, Naantali.
  • Moomintroll
    Moomintroll
  • Naantali church, from Moominworld, Finland
    Naantali church, from Moominworld, Finland
  • Moomin world, Naantali.
    Moomin world, Naantali.
  • Snork in Moomin World theme park, Naantali, Finland.
    Snork in Moomin World theme park, Naantali, Finland.
  • Niisku's flowing water power plant in Moominworld, Naantali.
    Niisku's flowing water power plant in Moominworld, Naantali.
  • Snork Maiden in Moomin World theme park, Naantali, Finland.
    Snork Maiden in Moomin World theme park, Naantali, Finland.
  • Sniff in Moomin World, Naantali.
    Sniff in Moomin World, Naantali.
  • Snufkin
    Snufkin
  • Moominpappa's boat, the Oshun Oxtra (Ocean Orchestra), Moominworld, Finland
    Moominpappa's boat, the Oshun Oxtra (Ocean Orchestra), Moominworld, Finland
  • Little My -lollipops in Muumimaailma, Naantali.
    Little My -lollipops in Muumimaailma, Naantali.
  • Little My in Moomintroll world, Naantali.
    Little My in Moomintroll world, Naantali.
  • Pikku Myyn nami sweet shop in Moomin world, Naantali.
    Pikku Myyn nami sweet shop in Moomin world, Naantali.
  • Pikku Myyn nami sweet shop in Moominmaailma, Naantali.
    Pikku Myyn nami sweet shop in Moominmaailma, Naantali.
  • Police station in Moomin world, Naantali.
    Police station in Moomin world, Naantali.
  • The gateway to Hattivattie's secret in Moomin World, Naantali.
    The gateway to Hattivattie's secret in Moomin World, Naantali.
  • Gateway to Moominpapa's memoirs in Moomin World, Naantali.
    Gateway to Moominpapa's memoirs in Moomin World, Naantali.
  • Twinkle from the Moomins.
    Twinkle from the Moomins.
  • The Moomin show is going on at Teatteri Emma.
    The Moomin show is going on at Teatteri Emma.
  • The Groke in her cave, Moominworld, Finland
    The Groke in her cave, Moominworld, Finland
  • Road sign in the Moominworld, in Naantali.
    Road sign in the Moominworld, in Naantali.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Moomin World

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Moomin World (Muumimaailma in Finnish) is a family-oriented theme park located on the island of Kailo in , southwestern , dedicated to the whimsical world of the Moomin characters created by Finnish-Swedish author, artist, and illustrator . Opened on June 26, 1993, under the initiative of Dennis Livson—the producer of the Japanese-Finnish Moomin animated television series—with Tove Jansson's personal approval, the park spans approximately 7 hectares and immerses visitors in the settings and themes of Jansson's beloved books and comics, such as and . Key attractions include life-size replicas like the iconic five-story Moominhouse, Snufkin's Camp, and the Hattifatteners' Island; interactive experiences such as the Moomintroll Adventure Trail and Invisible Ninny's Nature Path; live performances at venues like Theatre Emma and the Puppet Theatre; and character encounters with figures including Moomintroll, , and the Snork Maiden. The park emphasizes core Moomin values of family bonding, non-violence, friendliness, , safety, and gentle adventure, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Finnish to foster educational and recreational enjoyment for children and adults alike. Operated seasonally from June to August, Moomin World is owned by a led by Livson Group Oy (52% stake), with additional shares held by Baltic Archipelago Oy (18%) and Muumimaailma Oy (30%), and it has attracted millions of visitors while generating an annual turnover of around 7 million euros, bolstering the enduring cultural legacy of the worldwide.

History

Founding and opening

The idea for Moomin World originated in the 1980s, when Finnish producer and designer Dennis Livson envisioned a theme park in to promote and educate about Tove Jansson's beloved Moomin characters through immersive experiences. This concept gained momentum in the early 1990s, after Livson secured Jansson's approval for the project, ensuring it aligned with her stories' themes of family, nature, and non-violence. The site was selected on the island of Kailo in , , chosen for its picturesque landscape that evoked the fairy-tale settings of Jansson's books, over an initial proposal for nearby . Livson served as the park's artistic director and designer, creating structures and elements directly inspired by illustrations and narratives from the Moomin series, such as the iconic Moominhouse. Planning accelerated in early 1993, culminating in the construction decision on April 5 with authorities, leading to rapid construction that began shortly thereafter and concluded in under three months. The park officially opened in 1993, on June 26, with Jansson in attendance at the ceremony where she received the first symbolic key to Moomin World as its creator. Despite no initial marketing budget, the park drew over 170,000 visitors in its first summer, reflecting strong early reception and Jansson's heartfelt endorsement, which she expressed during her visit the day before the opening. This immediate popularity underscored the timeless appeal of the Moomin universe and set the foundation for the park's enduring success.

Expansions and developments

Since its opening in 1993, Moomin World has undergone steady growth to enrich the immersive experience of Tove Jansson's , with significant developments in the introducing new exploratory paths and areas. The Path and Fairytale Trail were added during this , enhancing through the park's archipelago setting and featuring interactive elements such as Snork’s Park of Inventions and the Hattifatteners’ Cave, which draw visitors deeper into the whimsical narratives. In the 2020s, the park continued to evolve with targeted additions that emphasize character-driven play and thematic depth. The Witch's House received updates to amplify its magical, chaotic atmosphere with flying brooms and bubbling cauldrons, complementing the overall enhancements to interactive zones. Recent builds prioritize , incorporating eco-friendly materials and practices aligned with the park's environmental ethos, including 100% renewable energy for operations and certifications like the Sustainable Travel Finland label awarded in 2021. Notable recent expansions include the 2023 introduction of Snorkmaiden’s Beauty Salon, where visitors can enjoy face painting and themed hairstyling to embody Moomin characters, and ’s Candy Shop, offering exclusive treats like lemony Little My candies and ’s salty sweets. In 2023, ’s Cave was added along the Invisible Ninni's Path, providing a chilling encounter with the lonely , while in 2024 Fillyjonk’s House hosted interactive cleaning parties to engage families in playful domestic adventures. In 2025, as part of the 80th anniversary celebrations of the , the park featured special events including the on June 10 and the Moomin Family's Dance on June 20-21. These additions reflect a thematic evolution tied to Jansson's estate through Moomin Characters Ltd, the official copyright holder, ensuring fidelity to the original stories while adapting to modern visitor expectations. Operated by Muumimaailma Oy since its inception, the park has navigated financial and operational shifts, including the broader tourism recovery from disruptions that affected global attractions in 2020. Although specific closures were limited, the prompted enhanced safety protocols and contributed to a phased rebound, with visitor numbers stabilizing by 2023 through targeted seasonal programs.

Location and facilities

Site and layout

Moomin World is situated in Naantali, in Southwest Finland, on the island of Kailo, which spans a compact area integrated into the local archipelago and connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge from the old town. The park's position at approximately 60°28′23″N 22°00′17″E places it in close proximity to the Baltic Sea, allowing for a seamless blend with the surrounding natural landscape of dense forests, rocky shores, and sandy beaches that evoke the whimsical settings of the original Moomin stories. This geographical embedding enhances the immersive experience, with the island's terrain providing a picturesque backdrop of gentle hills and waterfront views. The overall layout centers on as the heart of the park, where iconic structures like the Moomin House are clustered to recreate the familial hub from Tove Jansson's tales, fostering a sense of community and discovery. Radiating outward are peripheral paths that wind through wooded areas and open meadows, designed to encourage leisurely strolls and spontaneous play, while maintaining a scale that keeps all key areas accessible within a short walk. These zones balance structured attractions with unstructured natural spaces, promoting interaction with the environment in a way that mirrors the exploratory spirit of the Moomin characters. Key island features contribute to the site's charm and functionality, including a dedicated area along the shoreline for relaxation and water-based activities, a covered outdoor that hosts performances sheltered from variable , and meandering pathways inspired by the illustrative style of the Moomin books, complete with hidden nooks and thematic signage. The park operates exclusively from early June to late August as of 2025 to align with Finland's favorable warm-season climate.

Accessibility and infrastructure

Moomin World is located on Kailo Island in , , approximately 16 kilometers from , and is accessible primarily via a from the Naantali guest harbor. Visitors arriving by car can park at the designated Moomin Car Park (address: Tuulensuunkatu 12, Naantali) for €17 if booked online in advance or €19 at the location per day, with shuttle buses provided to guests across the bridge to the island entrance during operating hours; charging stations are also available on-site. Public transportation options include local buses 6 and 6A from Market Square, running every 15 minutes and taking about 35 minutes, followed by a short walk or shuttle to the ; trains from or connect to station for onward bus travel. from can be booked in advance, and boat arrivals are facilitated at the adjacent Naantali guest harbor, where moorings allow direct bridge access. On-site infrastructure includes a welcome Info Desk near the Moomin post office and bookshop, which serves as the central hub for assistance, ticket information, and services staffed by qualified personnel. Restrooms equipped for , including those suitable for disabled and users, are located at key areas such as Mamma's Kitchen and Theatre Emma, alongside childcare rooms with facilities for heating and changing. Pull-along wagons are available at the Pancake Café near the entrance for €5 per day plus a €5 deposit, to aid navigation for families with young children. Accessibility features emphasize inclusive pathways, with the entrance bridge equipped with a ramp ( varying by ) and much of the park's forest paths surfaced with wooden boards for and stroller use. The area surrounding the Moomin House is relatively navigable for s, though the park's hilly terrain includes some steep inclines that may require staff assistance to find alternative routes; the Moomin House itself is not fully accessible due to its multi-level design. Free admission is provided for companions of visitors with disabilities holding a valid companion card or credentials, and the park's natural setting includes multi-sensory elements like the Barefoot Trail for varied experiential access. Navigation is supported by an official park map available on the Moomin World website, detailing key locations such as Snufkin's Camp and the Witch's House, with signage provided in Finnish, Swedish, and English to accommodate the bilingual region and international visitors. The Muumimaailma mobile app allows users to access benefits, purchase food and games, view event schedules, and receive updates on campaigns, enhancing on-site orientation. Staff at the Info Desk can provide personalized guidance, including options for pre-visit planning. Safety measures prioritize visitor well-being, with all park staff trained to respond to exceptional situations and assist as needed; the Info Desk functions as the primary station for minor emergencies. The beach area encourages with appropriate attire, though specific lifeguard presence is not detailed; general protocols include monitoring for outdoor activities, with operations adjusted for rain or high winds to ensure safe enjoyment of the setting.

Attractions

Iconic buildings and structures

The Moominhouse stands as the central icon of Moomin World, a five-story blueberry-blue tower structure meticulously recreated from Tove Jansson's illustrations in her Moomin books. Visitors can explore all levels, from the attic filled with whimsical artifacts to the jam cellar stocked with preserved delights, offering an immersive glimpse into the Moomin family's daily life. Adjacent to the Moominhouse, Hemulen's House serves as a museum-like exhibit showcasing the botanist's orderly world, complete with a vibrant and a pollinator-friendly that highlights his passion for . Moominmamma’s is a themed dining area offering healthy buffets with local and organic ingredients, inspired by the character's nurturing role. The Witch's House, with its chaotic interior of flying brooms, floating books, and a bubbling , provides a maze-like environment evoking topsy-turvy magic from the stories. Among the additional structures, Snufkin's Camp recreates the wanderer's serene outdoor retreat, where the aroma of coffee from a pot and the melody of a harmonica create an atmospheric haven for quiet reflection. Moominpappa’s boat rests on the shoreline, a wooden vessel ready for imaginary voyages that nods to the adventurous spirit in Jansson's narratives. The Groke's Cave offers a chilling encounter in a dimly lit, icy chamber, where the forlorn creature's presence freezes the surroundings, fostering a sense of eerie solitude. These buildings draw direct inspiration from Tove Jansson's original black-and-white and colored illustrations, employing natural wood materials and bold, playful exteriors to capture the cozy, idiosyncratic Finnish aesthetic of the 1940s and 1950s. Interactive features abound, including climbable towers in the Moominhouse for panoramic views, hidden nooks within the Witch's House for discovery, and ample photo opportunities throughout, such as posing in Hemulen's garden or beside Snufkin's campfire setup.

Paths and interactive areas

Moomin World features several outdoor paths and trails designed to immerse visitors in the whimsical world of Tove Jansson's Moomin stories, emphasizing exploration and imaginative play through natural settings and interactive elements. These areas encourage self-guided adventures, where families can discover hidden surprises, engage with book-inspired features, and observe the surrounding Finnish archipelago landscape. The Fairytale Trail is a wooden plank path that winds through enchanted spots, including Alice’s Herb Garden, a wooden for puzzle-solving, and a over foamy waters, fostering a sense of discovery and mild adventure suitable for children. Along this trail lies the Hattifatteners’ Cave, a mysterious, darkened cavern accessible via the nearby Invisible Ninni's Trail, where visitors experience thunderous sounds and encounter silent, electrically charged Hattifattener figures, evoking the eerie magic of the books while offering an optional bypass for the timid. The Invisible Ninni's Trail further enhances interactivity with stops at the Witch's House, featuring flying brooms, floating books, and spell-casting effects like summoning rain clouds or whispering trees, allowing guests to role-play as brave explorers confronting mythical challenges. Complementing these, Moomintroll’s Adventure Trail, a nature path, leads to ’s campfire for fishing simulations and ’s old coffee tin, where visitors can help search for lost buttons, promoting hands-on engagement with Moomin characters' daily lives. For younger children, the Little Buzzing Meadow serves as a gentle play zone next to Hemulen’s house, a pollinator-friendly with colorful blooms that attract buzzing , encouraging observation and light-hearted collecting activities inspired by the Hemulen's botanical interests. The adjacent sandy beach provides a relaxed area for sandcastle building and wading, with calm waters ideal for toddlers, while older kids enjoy climbing elements like the . Character meet-and-greets occur spontaneously along these paths, with costumed Moomin figures such as or appearing for photos and brief interactions, enhancing the immersive storytelling without fixed schedules. Nature observation spots, integrated into the trails, highlight local and , underscoring the park's emphasis on environmental awareness and imaginative free play across age groups.

Entertainment and events

Shows and performances

Moomin World features a variety of live performances and character interactions designed to immerse visitors in the whimsical world of Tove Jansson's Moomin stories. Central to the entertainment is Theatre Emma, a covered venue that hosts daily plays and musicals featuring characters such as Moomintroll and , where stories come alive through singing, dancing, and adventurous narratives inspired by the original books. At Theatre Emma, performances like and the Peculiar Instrument are presented multiple times each day, typically in Finnish or Swedish, allowing audiences to experience family-oriented skits that highlight themes of and creativity from Jansson's tales. These shows emphasize interactive elements, encouraging audience participation to foster a and wonder, with scripts faithfully adapted to preserve the characters' personalities and the books' gentle humor. Complementing the theatre productions are puppet shows at the Puppet Theatre in Snork’s Park of Inventions, such as Snork’s Cleaning Day, which run several times daily and use to depict lighthearted vignettes from life, blending storytelling with visual creativity for younger visitors. The Small Stage offers additional variety through sing-alongs and short performances, including Moomin Family Singing Moment and Hemulen and the Big Flower, often in bilingual formats to accommodate Swedish-speaking audiences, promoting educational insights into and harmony central to Jansson's narratives. Character interactions form a key part of the daily program, with costumed performers portraying Moomintroll, , , and others appearing throughout the park for impromptu conversations, photo opportunities, and improv skits that stay true to the characters' traits. These encounters, occurring frequently from morning to evening, encourage playful engagement without scripted rigidity, allowing families to connect personally with the Moomin universe while reinforcing themes of and .

Seasonal programs

Moominworld features a series of seasonal programs designed to immerse visitors in the whimsical world of Tove Jansson's through themed events that blend Finnish traditions with the characters' adventures. These limited-time happenings occur during the park's summer season, enhancing the fairy-tale atmosphere by encouraging family participation in , games, and communal activities that echo the novels' themes of friendship, nature, and wonder. The annual marks the start of the season on June 10, serving as a festive kickoff where Moomin characters greet visitors with parades, music, and unveilings that set a joyful tone for the summer. This event integrates Moomin lore by featuring the family welcoming guests to their island home, fostering a sense of belonging and excitement without requiring reservations or age restrictions, allowing all attendees to join in the magical unveiling. A highlight is the Moomin Family's Midsummer Dance on June 20-21, celebrating Finland's traditional solstice with family-oriented dances, communal around a , and elements drawn from Moomin stories such as Snufkin's tales of and . Participants engage in interactive dances and -inspired activities that highlight the ' love for gatherings , creating an enchanting atmosphere of unity and without specific age limits or booking needs. In early August, Sniff and Little My's Great Outdoor Games Day on August 1 offers adventure-focused challenges and games led by the mischievous duo, reflecting their exploratory spirits from through outdoor scavenger hunts, playful competitions, and nature-based tasks across the park's paths. This program promotes and in a Moomin-inspired setting, open to families of all ages with no reservations required, further amplifying the park's immersive, storybook charm. Themed weekends throughout the season include specials like Snufkin's Day, emphasizing nature appreciation with storytelling sessions and eco-friendly activities inspired by the character's philosophical wanderings, as well as occasional Groke-themed events that explore themes of and redemption through gentle, narrative-driven encounters. These holiday-inspired programs, such as nature-focused days in summer, enhance the fairy-tale vibe by deepening visitors' connection to Moominvalley's emotional landscapes, remaining accessible without age restrictions or advance bookings. For 2025, Moominworld announced these core seasonal events amid celebrations for the 80th anniversary of the Moomins' debut. These programs collectively transform the park into a living Moomin narrative, drawing on the characters' adventures to create memorable, atmosphere-enriching moments for visitors.

Visitor information

Tickets and operations

Moomin World offers several ticket types to accommodate different visitor needs, including single-day admissions for adults (aged 13 and over) and children (aged 4-12), with children under 4 entering free of charge. In 2025, a one-day adult ticket cost €42 when purchased online in advance and €44 at the gate, while two-day tickets were priced at €48 online and €53 at the gate; family packages for 3 to 5 persons provided savings, such as €123 for a one-day ticket for three people. Season passes, valid for the entire summer, were available for €106, allowing unlimited visits during the operating period. The park operates seasonally from mid-June to mid-August, remaining open daily including holidays and regardless of weather conditions, with visitors advised to dress appropriately for outdoor activities. For the 2025 season, hours were 11:00 to 17:00 from June 10 to June 30 and August 3 to August 17, extending to 10:00 to 17:30 during July 1 to August 2; the park closed on August 17, 2025, and is scheduled to reopen on June 9, 2026, with similar hours. To manage visitor flow during peak summer periods and reduce queuing, advance online booking is recommended, though no strict timed entry slots are enforced. Tickets can be purchased online through the official website, where pre-booking secures lower prices and immediate digital delivery; upon arrival, visitors receive a Magic Bracelet that integrates with the Moomin World app for personalized character interactions and magical experiences throughout the park. Operational policies include non-refundable and non-amendable tickets, though flexibility is offered for changes in plans, and all remain accessible in varying as the park does not close for rain. Some bundled packages with nearby accommodations may include access to Naantali Spa facilities, enhancing multi-day stays. For arrival, a complimentary departs from 's old town harbor to the site.

Dining and shopping

Moomin World offers a variety of dining options inspired by the whimsical world of the , emphasizing local and organic ingredients to reflect the characters' love for nature and home-cooked meals. Mamma’s Kitchen, a book-themed cafe evoking Moominhouse, serves a rich featuring Finnish pastries, a , warm dishes such as herb chicken, BBQ , vegetarian mini patties, meatballs, and seasonal , alongside a dedicated kids’ . The menu highlights Moomin-inspired treats like Moomin-shaped waffles and pancakes, with all options prepared using the best local and organic produce to ensure freshness and sustainability. Dietary accommodations are available for common allergies and restrictions, including vegan choices in select dishes, and visitors can check detailed nutritional information or contact staff for specific needs. The Beach Café provides lighter fare suitable for a seaside pause, offering sweet and savory snacks such as ice creams, Hattifattener pastries, and hot or cold drinks to pair with a dip in the sea. Picnic areas enhance the relaxed atmosphere, with the sandy and Whileaway Park serving as ideal spots for visitors to enjoy packed lunches amid hammocks, bean bags, and shaded trees, encouraging a connection to the Moominvalley's outdoor ethos. Shopping at Moomin World focuses on official merchandise that captures the charm of Tove Jansson's creations, with stores stocking plush , apparel, , home decor, and exclusive park items like character-themed souvenirs. Boutiques are scattered throughout the park, including the Moomin Shop near the exit for comprehensive selections, Sniff's Shop and Little My's Candy for playful finds, and the Bookshop at the Moomin Post Office offering replicas of Jansson's original books. An additional Moomin Shop in ’s Old Town provides easy access to , , , accessories, and edible treats without park entry. Emphasis on runs through both dining and shopping, with locally sourced ingredients in meals and eco-friendly practices like points and waste reduction encouraged park-wide. Visitors are advised to take only what they can eat at buffets to avoid waste. Seasonal specials, such as summer berry-infused treats drawing from Moominvalley's harvest traditions, add timely delights during peak months.

Accolades

Awards and recognition

In 2005, Moomin World was ranked the fourth best theme park for children in the world by The Independent on Sunday. The park has also earned recognition for its sustainability efforts, receiving the Sustainable Travel Finland label in September 2021 from Visit Finland, which acknowledges its commitment to responsible tourism practices. In addition, Moomin World holds the EcoCompass certificate, awarded for demonstrable environmental actions that reduce impact and promote genuine sustainability. In the 2020s, Moomin World continued to receive accolades for its family appeal and operational excellence, winning the European Travel Awards for "Best Family Tourist Attraction 2023 – " and the "EU Business Excellence Award 2023," which underscore its status as a premier destination blending entertainment with cultural fidelity to Tove Jansson's original Moomin stories. Visitor feedback reflects this ongoing success, with the park earning a consistent 4.1 out of 5 rating on based on 500 reviews as of November 2025. These honors emphasize Moomin World's design as an immersive, educational space that faithfully recreates Jansson's whimsical world while prioritizing and eco-conscious experiences.

Moominvalley Park in Japan

Moominvalley Park is located in Hannō, , , approximately 40 kilometers northwest of , and forms part of the larger Metsä Nordic-themed resort complex situated on the shores of Lake Miyazawa. Opened on March 16, 2019, it represents the first Moomin-themed park outside of and was developed through a collaboration between Moomin Characters Oy, the official licensor of the Moomin franchise, and local Japanese developers including Metsä Village Co., Ltd., a of FinTech Global Inc. This partnership aimed to bring the whimsical world of Tove Jansson's Moomin stories to a broader audience while incorporating elements suited to the Japanese market. The park's design draws inspiration from the original Moomin World in but has been adapted for year-round operation, featuring indoor attractions to accommodate Japan's varied weather and seasonal events such as winter illuminations that transform the grounds into a festive Nordic wonderland. Unlike the Finnish counterpart, which operates seasonally from June to August, Moominvalley Park maintains daily accessibility, emphasizing a larger scale that includes both an expansive outdoor village recreation and an indoor museum dedicated to Moomin lore and Jansson's illustrations. This structure allows for immersive experiences throughout the year, blending the serene, nature-focused ethos of the stories with practical enhancements for consistent visitor flow. In 2024, the park underwent 5th anniversary renovations, including the addition of a new cinema and price adjustments to enhance visitor experience. Ongoing events as of 2025 include the with apple-themed decorations and , and Christmas illuminations. Key attractions include a full-scale replica of Moomin House, the iconic family residence from the books, where visitors can explore detailed interiors and interact with costumed characters. The Ocean Orchestra show offers a theatrical performance in a dedicated hall, featuring Moomin characters in a musical inspired by the sea adventures in Jansson's tales. For play, the Lonely Mountain playground provides climbing structures and exploratory zones mimicking the rugged landscapes of , while the Lighthouse Island area recreates coastal scenes with a towering , walking paths, and panoramic views of the lake. These features prioritize gentle, story-driven engagement over thrill rides, aligning with the franchise's emphasis on and tranquility. The park appeals to families and fans by integrating Japanese cultural elements, such as convenient access to hot springs within the Metsä resort, offering a relaxing contrast to the fantastical adventures. This fusion enhances its draw for local visitors seeking a blend of and comfort. Since opening, the Metsä complex has welcomed over 5 million visitors as of January 2025, reflecting strong popularity among Japan's Moomin enthusiasts and contributing to the franchise's global expansion.

References

  1. https://www.moominworld.fi/moominworld/
  2. https://www.moomin.com/en/tove-jansson-6/
  3. https://www.moomin.com/en/history/
  4. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/
  5. https://www.moominworld.fi/programme-and-events/
  6. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/the-moominhouse/
  7. https://www.moominworld.fi/responsible-theme-park/
  8. https://www.moominworld.fi/opening-times/
  9. https://www.moomin.com/en/blog/moominworld-in-naantali/
  10. https://www.moomin.com/en/blog/who-have-the-key-to-the-moominworld/
  11. https://www.moomin.com/en/blog/moominworld-naantali/
  12. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/the-witchs-house/
  13. https://www.moominworld.fi/moominworlds-new-attractions-2023/
  14. https://www.moomin.com/en/licensing/
  15. https://moominworld.fi/helpdesk?path=%252Fguide%252Fopening-times
  16. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/24721735.2023.2263310
  17. https://saaristo.fi/discover/the-charming-seaside-town-naantali
  18. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/finland/south-coast/naantali/attractions/muumimaailma/a/poi-sig/506656/359204
  19. https://latitude.to/articles-by-country/fi/finland/29915/moomin-world
  20. https://www.moominworld.fi/map/
  21. https://www.moominworld.fi/arrival/
  22. https://www.moominworld.fi/tickets-and-prices/
  23. https://www.foli.fi/en
  24. https://www.moominworld.fi/frequently-asked-questions/
  25. https://www.muumimaailma.fi/helpdesk?path=%252Fguide%252Faccessibility
  26. https://www.kkday.com/en-us/product/149420-moomin-world-ticket-finland
  27. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.yonoton.moominworld&hl=en_US
  28. https://www.moominworld.fi/visit-moominworld-safely/
  29. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/food-and-drink/mammas-kitchen/
  30. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/snufkins-camp/
  31. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/5444/
  32. https://www.moomin.com/en/blog/escape-to-moominvalley-architecture-design-museum/
  33. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/the-hattifatteners-cave/
  34. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/invisible-ninnis-trail/
  35. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/nature-path/
  36. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/little-buzzing-meadow/
  37. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/theatre-emma/
  38. https://www.muumimaailma.fi/helpdesk/?path=%252Fguide%252Ftickets-and-prices%253Fcategory%253Darrival
  39. https://www.muumimaailma.fi/helpdesk?path=%252Fguide%252Fopening-times
  40. https://www.yonoton.com/news/moominworld-extends-partnership-with-yonoton-for-ticket-sales/
  41. https://book.muumimaailma.fi/en/todo?sorting=st%3Da%3Bso%3Da%3Bsplit%3Dhl
  42. https://www.moominworld.fi/moominworld-online-store-booking-and-cancellation-terms/
  43. https://www.moominworld.fi/stay-in-comfort/
  44. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/food-and-drink/pizza-pasta/
  45. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/food-and-drink/beach-cafe/
  46. https://moominworld.fi/helpdesk/?path=%252Fguide%252Frestaurant-and-cafes%253Fcategory%253Dfood-and-beverages
  47. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/beach/
  48. https://paulagaston.com/tips-for-visiting-the-moominworld-in-finland/
  49. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/fairytale-attractions/whileaway-park/
  50. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/shopping/
  51. https://www.moominworld.fi/attractions/shopping/moomin-shop-in-naantalis-old-town/
  52. https://www.moomin.com/en/blog/harvest-time-encourages-to-enjoy-the-delicious-delicacies-of-the-season-like-the-moomins/
  53. https://ec.europa.eu/assets/eac/culture/library/studies/cultural-economy_en.pdf
  54. https://www.eubusinessnews.com/winners/moominworld/
  55. https://www.helsinkitimes.fi/themes/themes/travel/24011-muumimaailma-awarded-two-distinctions-at-the-2023-european-travel-awards.html
  56. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g777265-d4584265-Reviews-Muumimaailma-Naantali_Southwest_Finland.html
  57. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6558.html
  58. https://metsa-hanno.com/en/lp/english/
  59. https://www.moomin.com/en/blog/amazing-moomin-themed-moominvalley-park-in-japan-will-soon-be-ready-grand-opening-date-now-released/
  60. https://blooloop.com/brands-ip/in-depth/moominvalley-park/
  61. https://www.moomin.com/en/blog/moominvalley-park-japan/
  62. https://www.kkday.com/ja/blog/118675/asia-japan-saitama-moominvalleypark-reasonforclosure
  63. https://metsa-hanno.com/en/event/39857/
  64. https://metsa-hanno.com/en/lp/MVP_christmas2025/
  65. https://metsa-hanno.com/news/press_release/35897/
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