Shirahige

Stepping back in time to 1928, imagine the excitement as Shirahige Station first opened its doors. This bustling hub, known as Shirahige in English and 白鬚駅 in Japanese, connected communities and dreams. Sadly, its vibrant life was cut short. Shirahige Station saw its final train depart on March 1, 1936. Fast forward to present-day Tokyo, and the spirit of Shirahige lives on, not in the rumble of trains, but in the sweet aroma of cream puffs. Shirahige’s Cream Puff Factory, a charming café and bakery in western Tokyo, captures the hearts of Studio Ghibli fans. Why? Because here, you’ll find officially licensed Totoro cream puffs. The owner, Hayao Miyazaki’s sister-in-law, has the unique privilege of crafting these delightful treats. Stepping into Shirahige’s Cream Puff Factory feels like entering the whimsical world of My Neighbor Totoro. Downstairs, homemade Totoro cookies and other unique gifts await. Upstairs, the cozy TOLO Coffee & Bakery offers not only the famous cream puffs, but also a range of pasta dishes. These adorable Totoro cream puffs come in custard, chocolate, and caramel banana flavors. At ¥500 each, they are a steal. Be warned, though. These treats are so popular that Shirahige’s Cream Puff Factory recommends reservations. It’s a testament to their unique appeal. While their website is in Japanese, the experience transcends language barriers. The welcoming staff, the charming ambiance, and the delicious treats create a memory you won’t soon forget. So, if you find yourself near the Shibuya/Shimokitazawa area, take a detour to Shirahige’s Cream Puff Factory. It’s a delightful experience for any Studio Ghibli fan, especially those new to Japan. It’s a testament to how a name, once associated with a railway station, can be reborn in the sweetest way imaginable.