Nephew of Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki serves up Totoro Shaved Ice in Tokyo

Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki's nephew is creating a sensation in Tokyo with his Totoro Shaved Ice dessert, a limited-edition sweet that's drawing fans to his Cream Puff Factory. Shirohige's Cream Puff Factory, owned and operated by Miyazaki's son Yosuke, has two locations in the Japanese capital – one in Kichijoji and another in Daita near Shimokitazawa – but it's the Daita store that's the hot spot, being the sole place in Japan where visitors can sample the Totoro Shaved Ice.

The three flavors of Totoro Shaved Ice – Strawberry, Peach, and Matcha – are available for a short time only, priced at 2,000 yen (around US$12.58) each. Upon arriving at the bustling store around 10:00 a.m., an hour before opening, we found ourselves part of a line of about 30 eager customers, though the staff's attentiveness to the crowd waiting outside made the wait feel much shorter.

Hayao Miyazaki's brother, who previously ran the shop with his wife before handing the reins to Yosuke, was on hand to greet the line, distributing mosquito repellent to everyone. Inside, the store boasted a beautifully illustrated menu and cards for customers, showcasing the artistic talent that runs in the Miyazaki family. Even outside, a banner bearing the kanji for "ice" and personalized with a whimsical scene featuring the Catbus from Totoro and Spirited Away's Yu-Bird was a delightful sight.

Our order for the Totoro Shaved Ice was placed, and we received two cards – one for the peach and one for the matcha flavor. The entire experience was marked by creative touches throughout the store, from the menu design to the personalized outdoor decorations. As we eagerly awaited our delectable treats, staff called out our order numbers, and the sweet, adorable Totoro desserts were handed over - far more charming in person than in pictures.