Kawaii is a Japanese word that translates to “cute,” and since the 1960s, the term has inspired a movement that continues to define Japanese pop culture to this day. The movement focuses on all things adorable, often taking everyday items like clothing and giving them a colorful and fun makeover. In Tokyo, many bakeries and cafes have even found ways to incorporate kawaii into foods and beverages. Read on to see some of our favorites that are almost too cute to eat.
Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory
Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory makes fluffy, delicious cream puffs shaped like everyone’s favorite anime rabbit Totoro. They’re available with a variety of cream flavors on a rotating menu, with each flavor identifiable based on the color of Totoro’s hat.
Eiswelt Gelato
For seriously cute ice cream, check out Eiswelt Gelato in Harajuku. Eiswelt serves homemade gelato made with original recipes in adorable animal shapes like bears, pigs, and frogs. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying one of the Japanese flavors like green tea or purple yam.
Hatcoffee
The baristas at Hatcoffee take latte art to a whole new level by using foam to create 3D images of popular animals and cartoon characters. From a snowy white polar bear to an impressively accurate Pikachu, there’s no limit to how cute they can make your coffee.