If you’re familiar with films like Spirited Away or My Neighbor Totoro, then there’s a huge possibility that Hayao Miyazaki is a familiar name. Studio Ghibli films have touched people’s lives from different walks of life and have gained a huge following (here is a list of some Ghibli films to start with if you haven’t!).
Ghibli fans dream of visiting the famous Ghibli Museum in Mitaka. If you’re going to Tokyo soon (or are planning to go), then you can try your luck by purchasing museum tickets via Lawson branches around Tokyo (the official museum website provides more details. However, if you’re not able to get a ticket or if you lack the time to go to the museum, here’s the next best thing: Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory!
While it’s not exactly a “factory”, Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory is a small bakery that sells Totoro-shaped cream puffs. Just look at how adorable they are!
The bakery is tucked away in Tokyo’s Shimokitazawa station (‘Shimokita’ for short) on the Odakyu line. The neighborhood is incredibly lovely. If you’re into quiet neighborhoods, thrift shopping, indie shops, and delicious food places; Shimokitazawa is your place. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the quieter side of Tokyo.
It’s not too crowded, either, since not a lot of tourists visit the area. You could get lost in Shimokitazawa without actually getting lost. The way to Shirohige’s can be tricky at first, though, so make sure to come prepared with a map.
If you see this sign, it means that you have arrived!
The bakery is on the first floor, while the restaurant is on the second floor. As soon as you walk in, you’ll see Totoro-themed merchandise everywhere!
Cream puffs are made fresh everyday, so it’s no surprise that they run out almost everyday, as well. Be sure to go there early as they usually run out around mid-afternoon. Cream puffs range from ¥400 (Php175) to ¥450 (Php200) depending on the flavor (which changes by the season).
Read on for more!
