What Does Shiratama Mean in Cherry Magic? Exploring the Anime's Reference

shiratama cherry magic
Credit: Satelight

shiratama cherry magic
Credit: Satelight

The budding romance between Kurosawa and Adachi continues to unfold in Cherry Magic. In Episode 3, they hit the sauna with Rokkaku, where Kurosawa likens Adachi’s tummy to a shiratama. But what exactly is a shiratama, and why did Kurosawa use it as a reference in Cherry Magic?

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What Is a Shiratama?

What Is a Shiratama?
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Web Japan defines the meaning of shiratama as “white balls". It can also refer to “pearls” or any kind of “round and beautiful object."

Nihongo Master, on the other hand, defines the meaning of shiratama as “white gem," "rice flour dumpling," or “white-flowered camellia.”

Shiratama is often made as a dango (Japanese dumpling). By mixing sweet rice flour (shiratamako), water, sugar, and the desired flavor, even children can make shiratama dango at home.

It is a traditional Japanese treat known for its white, soft, fluffy, and springy texture.

Kurosawa's Shiratama Reference in Cherry Magic Episode 3 Explained

shiratama cherry magic
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Credit: Satelight

In Cherry Magic Episode 3, Rokkaku invited Adachi and Kurosawa to hang out and visit the sauna together thanks to his free admission tickets. They left work early, making the get-together even more exciting.

In the locker area, Kurosawa tried to impress Adachi with his model-like body, which he kept in shape by going to the gym regularly.

Adachi, on the other hand, is the complete opposite of Kurosawa, who’s not the type to exercise and build muscles.

Inside the sauna, Kurosawa couldn’t help but think about Adachi, who looked very defenseless and vulnerable to his eyes.

He can’t shake the excessively strong thoughts that come out of his mind after seeing Adachi topless while sitting right in front of him.

That’s when Adachi sprung out of his seat because he couldn’t handle the sauna’s heat anymore. As he stands up, his towel slips a little, exposing his slight tummy to Kurosawa.

shiratama cherry magic
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Credit: Satelight

Of course, Kurosawa immediately thought that Adachi’s tummy was cute. He also thinks it’s so white and smooth, similar to a shiratama.

In the manga, Kurosawa likens Adachi’s slight tummy to a dumpling instead. Still, it’s the same thing as explained above.

Adachi’s slight tummy looks like a shiratama in Kurosawa’s eyes because they have the same pale, soft, white, and smooth texture.

In other words, Kurosawa can’t help but think of the traditional treat after seeing Adachi’s criminally cute, squishy, and comfy tummy.

At that time, Kurosawa wanted to touch Adachi’s tummy, but it’s a good thing he was able to control himself.

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