While focusing on children’s animation, Studio Ghibli has produced gorgeous and whimsical movies that are loved by people of all ages. There is plenty for fans of these films to see and do while in Tokyo and one that should not be missed is the chance to eat a Totoro-shaped cream puff.
Totoro is a character from the film, My Neighbor Totoro, and is the mascot for Studio Ghibli. Like Mickey Mouse, there is no shortage of merch featuring the cuddly spirit. But there is only one place to get cream puffs resembling Totoro, and that is the Shirohige Cream Puff Factory in Setagaya.
Shirohige is located in the suburbs, which is about a 40 minute train ride from Tokyo. While it can feel weird wandering around a residential neighborhood, there are signs to guide you to the right place. After a ten minute walk, you will find yourself at a converted house consisting of a bakery on the first floor and a cafe on the second.
Tolo Coffee and Bakery serves coffee and light lunches like pasta and salads. If you dine at the cafe, you can order cream puffs brought up from the bakery. The line to the bakery can be long, so multitasking with a meal and a cream puff dessert might actually save you some time.
The cafe is decorated like a cozy and welcoming house straight out of a Studio Ghibli film. There is even original art by Ghibli co-founder, Miyazaki Hayao!
The cream puffs come in vanilla and chocolate year round, with seasonal flavors available. Each flavored Totoro comes with a different hat/headpiece so if you’re not picky, you could decide what to order based on their accessories.
Due to their shape, they can be a bit awkward to eat. And, obviously, they are more expensive than the cream puffs you would find in train stations. But if you are a fan of Ghibli films, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to chow down on these adorable Totoro puffs.
Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory
5 Chome-3-1 Daita, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0033, Japan