Shanghai, the commercial hub of China, is one of the busiest cities in the world. Many themed cafes have popped up around the city in the recent years due to the demand for unique chill out options. Inspired by a Japanese character, Totoro, we see the opening of the Chinchilla café in Shanghai. The character gained popularity after the movie “My Neighbour Totoro” by award winning animator, Hayao Miyazaki.
A warm welcome by the gigantic figurine at the cafe entrance
Located along Shilong Road, the café is open daily from 9.30am to 9.30pm. It is situated near the Shanghai South Railway Station. Since there is no nearby subway or metro line, the most accessible mode is to take a taxi. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by a huge Totoro figurine at the entrance and the friendly English-speaking café staff. On most days, you can get a table very easily.
Cuddle these plushies seated right beside you
The café is painted with pictures of Totoro and decorated with numerous small plushies on the chairs and shelves. You can sit beside one of the adorable plushies while enjoying your drink or meal. On weekdays, the café is pretty quiet with mostly professionals and college students working on their laptops.
It appears to be an ideal place for private tuition, as you’d see several adults learning English from their native teachers. On weekends, the café may be crowded with parents and children though. There is a sheltered smoking section, separated by a glass door for those who could not resist a puff. So, parents need not be worried about the tobacco smoke affecting your children.
Offering a menu of mouthwatering waffles and pastries
The café serves a good variety of beverages and desserts with the signature treats being the cakes in the shape of the character. The fruit waffle with a cup of hot coffee is highly recommended. The waffles, which cost about 40 RMB (6.30 USD), are freshly baked with a generous spread of fresh fruit toppings and two scoops of vanilla ice-cream. The beverages are also decorated with the shapes of the characters on the foam.
Sit back and enjoy a movie in the cafe
The café also projects movies onto a screen, featuring the main anime film – “My Neighbour Totoro” as well as other popular films by Studio Ghibli - a Japanese anime film studio. Both adults and children can sit back and relax with the movie while enjoying your drinks and food. The laid back atmosphere promises a brief retreat from the hustle and bustle of the busy city life.
A must-go theme café for Totoro fans
The Chinchilla café is a must for all Totoro fans. Though it is an inspired café, fans would still feel the joy of being surrounded by tons of Totoro plushies and its colorful walls. This café is also suitable for those who need a place to work on their laptop during weekdays. For parents with little ones, this café is definitely popular with children on weekends!
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