As soon as I got out of the car and walked into La Collina in Omihachiman, it felt like stepping into the magical world of Studio Ghibli. This confectionery kingdom, designed around harmony with nature, has an undulating roof covered in greenery that blends into the distant scenery of Mt. Hachiman. When I visited in early spring, fresh green shoots were sprouting throughout the grounds, filling the area with refreshing vitality. The sweet aroma of baked butter and caramel gently drifted through the air, and simply strolling around felt incredibly soothing.
Of course, you can't miss their signature freshly baked baumkuchen. Unlike the usual packaged kind served at room temperature, the baumkuchen fresh from the oven is warm, fluffy, moist, and soft. It melts in your mouth as the flavors of egg and milk gently unfold on your tongue. It's sweet without being too rich and pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. Savoring this warm, handmade treat beneath the wooden walkway surrounded by fresh spring greenery brought an instant feeling of happiness!
