In Japan, Totoro is among the most beloved Studio Ghibli characters. So much so that its likeness can be seen in toys, furniture, and even trees. Only one bakery is allowed to make cream puffs in its likeness, though, and that’s Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory.
Shirohige Cream Puff Factory
Shirohige Cream Puff Factory is a small bakery that prides itself in making handmade desserts based on Studio Ghibli characters, particularly those of My Neighbor Totoro. They are officially licensed by Studio Ghibli, with the owner being a relative of famous Ghibli director Miyazaki Hayao. The name “Shirohige” means “white beard,” a striking feature of Miyazaki.
Shirohige has two branches, one in Setagaya Daita and another in Kichijoji. The Setagaya Daita branch has both a shop and a cafe, so you have the option of dining in. The Kichijoji branch is shop only but has the advantage of being close to Inokashira Park, so you can buy your choice of treats and enjoy them while being surrounded by nature.
Totoro Cream Puffs
Shirohige’s most popular products are their cream puffs and they’re sold in different flavors. These flavors are distinguished by the accessory on the woodland creature’s head. Some flavors are available all year round, while some are seasonal.
| Flavor | Accessory | Availability | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| custard & whipped cream | green leaf | all year round | ¥460 |
| strawberry cream | cherry blossom | Jan to Jun | ¥500 |
| peach cream | hat with pink ribbon | Jul to Sep | ¥500 |
| chestnut & chestnut cream | brown leaf | Oct to Dec | ¥500 |
| chocolate cream | all year | all year round | ¥460 |
| caramel banana cream | hat with yellow ribbon | Jan to Mar | ¥500 |
| matcha cream | hat with yellow ribbon | Apr to Jun | ¥500 |
| mango cream | hat with yellow ribbon | Jul to Sep | ¥500 |
| raspberry & cream cheese | hat with yellow ribbon | Oct to Dec | ¥500 |
When you buy the cream puffs, they’re packed in a small box that comes with a cold pack that can keep it cool for an hour. They’re also placed in the box facing each other.
The cream puffs are stuffed with a generous serving of cream. Like most Japanese desserts, they are just mildly sweet, which means you can eat a lot without getting sick of it. If you’re fond of Totoro, it may feel weird to eat one, but that feeling disappears as soon you get a taste of this delicious treat.
Because the cream puffs are made one by one (i.e., not mass-produced), they come in a limited supply. Some reports say that they sell out shortly after noon. I didn’t have this problem, however. I visited the Kichijoji branch on a weekday past noon but it seemed like they still had plenty to sell. You can always reserve by calling if you want to secure your favorite flavors.
Other Sweets
Shirohige Cream Puff factory also sells cookies designed after Studio Ghibli characters. The most common ones you find in the shop are the Totoro and Cat Bus cookies, although they seem to occasionally sell sweets with Spirited Away and Ponyo designs.
Custom cakes are also available but you’ll have to order by phone 3 days before pick-up.
How to Get to Shirohige Cream Puff Factory
Kichijoji Branch
Hours: 11:00 to 18:00 / Thursdays: 11:00 to 17:00 / closed on Tuesdays
Phone Number: 0422-26-6550
Website
Setagaya Daita Branch
Hours: 10:30 to 19:00 / closed on Tuesdays
Phone Number: 03-5787-6221
Website
