Key Facts
• Hiroshi Igarashi, 52, owns La Rose Japonaise in Kameari, Tokyo.
• The shop is located within Kameari Katori Shrine, featured in the manga KochiKame.
• Igarashi trained in France and worked at prestigious hotels like Mandarin Oriental Tokyo.
• In 2012, he opened his first shop in Kanamachi, later relocating to Kameari.
• The relocation was prompted by an invitation from the shrine’s chief priest.
• Igarashi won the 2010 World Pastry Team Championship, becoming the first Japanese champion.
• His signature cake, “Pixie,” features pistachio mousse, strawberry cream, and caramelized pistachios.
• The shop’s design includes glass walls for transparency and customer engagement.
• In 2023, Igarashi was named a “Contemporary Master Craftsman” by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare.
• The shop attracts long lines, even on weekdays, for its award-winning creations.
Summary
Hiroshi Igarashi, owner of La Rose Japonaise in Kameari, Tokyo, has achieved global recognition for his pastry creations. Located within Kameari Katori Shrine, the shop is a popular destination, drawing inspiration from the nearby KochiKame manga museum. Igarashi’s journey began with culinary training in France and roles at top-tier hotels. In 2010, he became the first Japanese winner of the World Pastry Team Championship with his signature cake, “Pixie.” The cake, featuring pistachio mousse and strawberry cream, remains the shop’s bestseller. Relocating to the shrine in 2012, Igarashi aimed to revitalize the area, creating a transparent, customer-friendly shop design. His dedication earned him the title of “Contemporary Master Craftsman” in 2023. Igarashi continues to focus on contributing to the community through his craft.
