Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff Factory: A Sweet Ghibli Experience

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Japan is a popular tourist destination for foodies and anime fans alike, but there is one place truly fit for both. Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff Factory is a wonderful one-of-a-kind experience, as it’s the only official Studio Ghibli bakery in the world.

The original Shirohige Cream Puff Factory is located in Setagaya and features a cafe and a takeaway shop. There is now a second takeaway-only branch available in Kichijoji.

Japan is known for making cute food, and these Totoro-shaped cream puffs might be the cutest. Along with the cream puffs, other sweet treats are available to buy such as Totoro-shaped cookies.

But, Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory provides more than just delicious desserts. This cafe is tucked away in a residential area that looks right out of a Studio Ghibli movie. The cafe manages to capture the essence of Ghibli with its interior design. And the exterior combines the look of an old traditional Japanese house with gorgeous nature.

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In this article, I will examine the history of this unique cafe, explain where it is and the best way to get there. I will review the Totoro cream puffs as well as the overall experience. Finally, I’ll offer some tips and advice for visiting the Shiro-Hige Cream Puff Factory to enhance your experience.

So grab your umbrella, hop on the Catbus and prepare to enter the magically delicious world of My Neighbour Totoro.

This image shows four adorable Totoro-shaped cream puffs sitting in a wooden tray. Each pastry is designed to look like the character Totoro, complete with small eyes and noses, and is topped with colorful decorations like mini hats and a leaf to distinguish different flavors. The whimsical pastries are placed in individual paper liners on a wooden table, creating a charming and playful presentation.
I had to try all four flavours. The cream puffs are distinguished by their colourful headwear.

The Story Behind Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff Factory

Studio Ghibli is very protective of its property, making it rare to find pop-up cafes or merchandise produced by outside companies. That might make you wonder how Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff factory managed to create Totoro-inspired cream puffs. Simple. It’s all in the family.

The owner of this bakery is the sister-in-law of the legendary Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki. Thus they got permission to create Totoro-themed treats and are officially recognised by Studio Ghibli.

The Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff Factory opened in 2008. It took on the name Shiro Hige, meaning white beard. Depending on which legend you believe, it was named after either one of their bakers or in tribute to Hayao Miyazaki.

This cafe became a hit with locals and visitors to Japan flocking in droves to try the visually pleasing Totoro desserts.

In 2019, Shiro-Hige opened up a second store in Kichijoji. This takeaway shop sells Totoro cream puffs, Totoro cookies, and a Catbus biscuit, which is only available at this store. The Kichijoji location is excellent for people who are visiting the Studio Ghibli Museum as it’s only a short bus ride or a 20-minute walk.

This image shows the entrance to Shiro Hige's Cream Puff Factory, a charming bakery nestled in a brick building surrounded by greenery. A wooden sign featuring Totoro-shaped cream puffs with hats welcomes visitors to the shop. Additional signs near the entrance provide information about the bakery and its offerings. The building has a cozy, rustic appearance with plants and trees lining the path, creating a whimsical and inviting atmosphere.
The entrance to Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff Factory.

Location and Ambience

Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff Factory is located in Tokyo’s Setagaya district and nestled between Daita Station and the hipster area of Shimokitazawa.

The cafe is tucked away down an alley in an off-the-beaten-path neighbourhood. Trees, plants, and nature surround Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff Factory, which adds to the feeling of being transported to the meditative Totoro forest.

The building itself is a quaint cottage-like two-storey building, giving it a whimsical atmosphere. There are rustic signs, old wooden chairs, and fun Ghibli decorations outside the cafe. 

This image shows the exterior of a quaint brick building, which resembles an old house with a whimsical, Ghibli-like charm. The building is surrounded by trees and greenery, with bay windows on the second floor and a small wooden shed to the side. A couple of people are standing near the entrance, where potted plants and outdoor items are scattered around, enhancing the cozy and rustic feel of the space. The scene exudes a nostalgic, storybook atmosphere.
The building looks like an old house lifted out of a Studio Ghibli movie.

Upon entering the Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff building, you will be greeted with Studio Ghibli plushies, artwork, and collectables lining the old wooden interior. There is a takeaway store downstairs and a cafe upstairs with a seating area.

The takeaway store is an adorable little shop with only enough room for half a dozen people at a time. They have more unique Studio Ghibli artwork and collectables on display, which can almost distract you from the food. Shelves are stocked with their handmade cookies, and a refrigerated counter displays the Totoro cream puffs.

There are nine different flavours of filling available for the cream puffs. However, most of these are seasonal and only have four available at a time.

  • Custard and fresh cream (all seasons) 600 yen 
  • Chocolate cream (all seasons) 600 yen
  • Strawberry cream (January to June) 640 yen
  • Caramel banana cream (January to March) 640 yen
  • Matcha cream (April to June) 640 yen
  • Blueberry yoghurt cream (July to September) 640 yen
  • Mango cream (July to September) 640 yen
  • Chestnut and chestnut cream (October to December) 640 yen
  • Raspberry & cream cheese (October to December) 640 yen
This image shows the inside of a cozy bakery shop filled with Studio Ghibli-themed memorabilia and pastries. To the right, a display case is stocked with Totoro-shaped cream puffs, while to the left, baskets hold individually wrapped cookies. Plush toys and figurines of Ghibli characters like Totoro and the Catbus are arranged on shelves, adding to the whimsical atmosphere. The shop has a warm, rustic feel with green wooden paneling and charming decor.
The takeaway shop is filled with cream puffs, cookies, and Studio Ghibli memorabilia.

The cream puffs are made fresh every morning and often sell out. So they advise arriving early if you don’t want to be disappointed.

You can also buy beautifully designed boxes of Totoro-shaped cookies, which would make a great gift or souvenir. These come in three different sizes. The cookies are a variety box filled with various flavours.

  • Small box (4 cookies) 600 yen (raspberry, plain, coffee & hazel, cocoa)
  • Medium box (9 cookies) 1,600 yen (raspberry, plain, coffee & hazel, cocoa, cinnamon, orange, purple sweet potato, kinako, matcha)
  • Large box (24 cookies) 3,500 yen (3x plain, 3x cocoa, 3x raspberry, 3x coffee & hazel, 3x matcha, 3x orange, 3x purple potato, 3x kinako)
This image shows a person holding a small box of Totoro-shaped cookies, with four cookies in assorted flavors and colors, ranging from red to yellow and brown. Each cookie is shaped like Totoro, complete with small eyes, adding a playful and charming touch to the packaging. In the background, the exterior of Shirohige's Cream Puff Shop can be seen, framed by trees, enhancing the whimsical and nature-inspired atmosphere of the scene.
A small box of Totoro cookies with assorted flavours.

They also sell cookies resembling leaves, acorns, and mushrooms. They cost 290 yen for a packet of two – or 850 yen for a small assorted ribbon bag.

This image shows a display of Totoro-themed cookies in beautifully designed boxes. The cookies are shaped like Totoro and other Studio Ghibli characters, with samples presented in different colors and flavors. Small figurines of Totoro and other characters are placed alongside the cookies, enhancing the display's whimsical charm. An informational card and illustrated map are also part of the setup, adding to the playful, detailed presentation of these unique, Ghibli-inspired treats.
The Totoro cookies come in beautiful boxes.

The upstairs cafe is Tolo Coffee and Bakery, which is owned and managed separately. They sell light meals such as pasta, fresh baked goods, coffee and tea, as well as selling Totoro cream puffs.

This cozy cafe, which seats 38 people, allows visitors to sit and enjoy the cream puffs with a drink. Although no Studio Ghibli memorabilia is on display here, the old wooden tables & chairs, plants, and rugs give it Ghibli-esque vibes.

One drink is required per person when ordering cream puffs in the cafe. They have a wide range of tea, coffee, and juice available. The cream puffs cost a little extra in the sit-down cafe. The all-season cream puffs are 650 yen, and the seasonal ones are 690 yen.

This image shows the inside of a cozy café with a relaxed, Studio Ghibli-inspired atmosphere. Wooden tables and chairs fill the small space, where patrons are seated near large windows that let in natural light and offer views of surrounding greenery. The café has rustic décor, including patterned curtains and simple wall hangings, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Customers are quietly enjoying their meals or conversations, enhancing the tranquil, laid-back vibe of the space.
The cosy cafe has a Ghibli atmosphere.

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What were the Totoro Cream Puffs Like

On the day of my visit to Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory, there were four options for the cream puffs, and I ordered one of each. The flavours are recognisable by the item or hat that the Totoro adorned.

The choux pastry is made from domestically grown organic wheat and has a light sweet taste. They are perfectly golden and just a little flaky. You can tell they are made daily with the freshness of every bite.

This image captures a person holding a Totoro-shaped cream puff on a white plate, with their eyes peeking over the top of the pastry. The Totoro cream puff is intricately decorated with small eyes and a hat, making it almost too cute to eat. The person’s focus on the pastry emphasizes its charm, with soft lighting adding to the playful and whimsical feel of the moment.
The Totoro cream puffs are almost too cute to eat.

The Totoro cream puffs are almost too cute to eat. The cream puffs that I got to try were:

  • Custard and fresh cream (green leaf) – This one had a sweet flavour of soft vanilla custard and fresh cream without being overpowering.
  • Chocolate cream (hat with blue bow) – This cream puff was filled with a smooth sweet chocolate cream with a hint of orange. It reminded me a little of Nutella.
  • Blueberry yoghurt cream (hat with pink bow) – This one contained homemade blueberry jam combined with Hokkaido yogurt, which had a refreshing taste. There were also little chunks of blueberries throughout.
  • Mango cream (hat with yellow bow) – This was my favourite of the four types of cream puffs that I tried. It was filled with a sweet mango and passion fruit jam mixed with fresh cream. It was a perfect combination with the pastry. 
This image features a Totoro-shaped cream puff that has been cut in half, revealing a generous filling of rich custard cream inside. The puff's crispy exterior contrasts with the creamy, smooth custard oozing from the center. In the background, more Totoro cream puffs can be seen, along with a drink, adding to the inviting and indulgent atmosphere of this sweet treat.
The cream puff is filled with lashings of fresh custard cream.

Overall Experience

As a huge Studio Ghibli fan, I was a little concerned that this wouldn’t live up to the hype. But it met my expectations in every way. I’ve visited anime cafes before, and they look great, but the food can be very mediocre. Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory captures the tender ambience of Studio Ghibli while serving cute mouth-watering desserts.

I love the look of the cafe from the outside, as it feels like it has been lifted straight out of a Ghibli film. The interior decor complimented this with all of the memorabilia and art on display.

The only thing missing from the sit-down cafe is any decorations related to Studio Ghibli. There are loads of neat things to enjoy outside the cream puff factory, in the halls, and in the downstairs shop. But once you head upstairs, they all vanish. I understand it is a separately managed cafe, but they could add some classy Ghibli art to their decor. 

I arrived for opening time, and there was already a small queue. You sign a sheet with your name and group size, and they will call you when your table is available. I waited around 30 minutes, which didn’t feel long at all. It can become busier later on, so you are best arriving early.

This image features a cozy staircase with green carpet leading up to the second floor of a shop or café. The stairwell is decorated with Totoro plush toys, adding a whimsical Studio Ghibli charm to the space. A wooden sign points to the "Shop" and "Café," and the warm wood paneling creates a rustic, welcoming feel. The playful Totoro figures and inviting decor emphasize the themed atmosphere of the location.
Look out for the Totoro plushies and Ghibli memorabilia.

Opening Hours and How to Get There

Shiro Hige Cream Puff Factory Address:

5-3-1 Daita, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0033

Telephone number: 03-5787-6221

Opening Hours

The takeaway shop is open Wednesday to Monday from 10:30 am – 6:00 pm. The upstairs cafe is open Wednesday to Monday from 10:30 am – 5:00 pm (with the last order at 4:30 pm).

They are closed on Tuesdays. If Tuesday is a public holiday, they will be open that day and close on Wednesday instead. 

How to Get There

Shiro-Hige has two nearby stations to select from when making your journey there. Both are straightforward walks:

  • From the north exit of Setagaya-Daita Station, it is a 5-minute walk. This station is on the Odakyu Line. Setagaya-Daita Station is the closest station to Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff Factory. 
  • From the west exit south side of Shimo-Kitazawa Station, it is a 9-minute walk. This station is on the Inokashira Line and the Odakyu Line.
This image shows the entrance to Setagaya-Daita Station, which is located on the Odakyu Line. The station has a clean, modern look with brick walls and clear signage directing passengers to the IC Card-only gates. A path leads up to the entrance, lined with greenery and trees that add a welcoming touch. The station appears quiet and well-maintained, serving as a convenient point for travelers visiting nearby attractions, such as Shirohige’s Cream Puff Factory.
Setagaya-Daita Station is the closest station to Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff Factory.

It may be a little tricky to find the Shirohige Cream Puff Factory as it’s in a residential area. You will start to see Ghibli and Totoro signs when you are near, and there is usually a line of people in the street waiting to get in.

A sign for "TOLO Pan Tokyo Coffee & Bakery" is mounted on the side of a building partially covered with green ivy. Above the sign, a small, wooden plaque featuring a Totoro character with the word "Welcome" adds a whimsical touch. The greenery and Totoro artwork create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for visitors.
Look out for the Totoro signs on the walk to the Cream Puff Factory.

Hanegi Park is a nine-minute walk from the cafe if you want to take in some more nature. This park features walking areas, open green space, annual plum blossoms, and a children’s play park. 

If you want to shop, a quick walk to Shimo-Kitazawa will scratch that itch. This trendy hipster district is full of used clothing stores, record and book shops, live music, and unique cafes, bars, and movie theatres.

This image shows a peaceful, tree-lined path in a quiet Japanese neighborhood, with lush greenery on both sides. A person holding an umbrella is walking down the path, which curves gently ahead. The serene setting is enhanced by the natural surroundings and the simple, well-maintained architecture of nearby buildings. The scene captures a tranquil moment, offering a glimpse into the calm and nature-filled environment of the Daita area.
Walk around Daita to experience nature and a real Japanese neighbourhood.

Tips for Visiting

Before heading to Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory, it’s important to plan your journey to make the most of the experience.

The Cream Puff Factory is open from Wednesday to Monday and closed on Tuesday. However, if Tuesday falls on a national holiday, it will be open on Tuesday and closed on Wednesday instead. So please check which dates Japanese holidays fall on before planning your trip.

The cream puffs, especially the seasonal flavours, can sell out during the day. To ensure you get the flavours you are looking for, you should arrive at the opening at 10:30 am before anything can sell out. Arriving early will ensure you can get a seat in the cafe too. There might be a wait to enter, so come prepared with something to help pass the time.

The cafe appears to have no restrictions for photographers and vloggers, as long as you don’t disturb other customers. Most of the visitors in the cafe were shooting pictures of the cream puffs, so there is no need to feel embarrassed about joining in.

Before rushing home, try exploring the local neighbourhood. This cute little area has nice cafes, restaurants, shrines, greenery, and spas. It’s a nice escape from the concrete jungle areas of Shinjuku and Shibuya.

Other Ghibli-Inspired Experiences in Tokyo

Studio Ghibli fans will be thrilled to learn that there are plenty of other Ghibli-related activities to keep you occupied on your trip.

The number one activity and an absolute must-visit is the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka. This museum is extremely popular with tourists and locals, so tickets sell out in minutes. Tickets go on sale at 10 am Japan time on the 10th of each month for the following month. Some online third-party ticket agencies can secure tickets for you if you want a more stress-free experience.

There are also some highly popular shops dedicated to selling all the Studio Ghibli merchandise you could ever imagine.

First up, there are the official Donguri Republic stores, which are official Studio Ghibli shops. They have a few branches across Tokyo at Lala Port Tachikawa, Ikebukuro Sunshine City, DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, Tokyo Skytree Town, and Character Street in Tokyo Station.

This image shows two people standing on either side of a large wooden Totoro cutout outside a shop, likely a Donguri Republic store. The shop features traditional Japanese architecture with dark wooden elements and a tiled roof. Both individuals are smiling and making peace signs, posing next to the iconic Studio Ghibli character. The scene creates a fun and whimsical photo opportunity, capturing the playful spirit of the Totoro-themed location.
Some of the Donguri Republic shops offer fun photo ops.

A newer addition to Ghibli shopping is GBL Miyashita Park. This shop offers unique streetwear-style Studio Ghibli merchandise including graphic t-shirts, Hawaiian shirts, skateboards, jeans, and bags. Worth a browse for more fashionable subculture wear.

One of the most interesting Ghibli things to see in Tokyo is the Ni-Tele Really Big Clock. Hayao Miyazaki designed this, and it wouldn’t be out of place in Howl’s Moving Castle. It’s proudly on display outside the Shiodome Ni-Tele Tower. The clock comes to life and performs every day at 12 pm, 3 pm, 6 pm, and 8 pm.

Final Thoughts

Speaking as a massive Studio Ghibli lover, Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff Factory is a must-visit for all fans and anyone looking for a unique Japanese culinary experience.

This cream puff factory is something that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. So, make the trek over to Setagaya and be transported to the magical world of Studio Ghibli while you indulge in some delicious sweet treats.

A Pinterest-style collage promoting "Shiro Hige's Cream Puff Factory: A Sweet Ghibli Experience." The top image shows adorable Totoro-shaped cream puffs with colorful hats, while the bottom images feature the charming shop entrance with a Totoro-themed sign and a staircase decorated with a plush Totoro, emphasizing the Studio Ghibli-inspired atmosphere.
Shiro Hige’s Cream Puff Factory – Pinterest Image.

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