Japan is known for its unique blend of tradition and innovation, and this philosophy is perfectly reflected in the country’s bakeries. Whether you’re after delicate pastries, fluffy bread, or artfully crafted desserts, Japan’s bakeries offer a remarkable array of both Western-inspired treats and traditional Japanese baked goods. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best bakeries across Japan that you should visit if you’re a pastry lover.
1. Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory (Tokyo)
Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood in Setagaya, Tokyo, Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory is a whimsical bakery best known for its Totoro-shaped cream puffs. These adorable pastries, modeled after the beloved Studio Ghibli character, come in a variety of seasonal flavors like vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and matcha. Beyond the cute design, the cream puffs are freshly baked and filled with rich, creamy custard that’s simply irresistible.
Must-Try: Totoro Cream Puffs (Vanilla, Chocolate, Matcha)
Location: Setagaya, Tokyo
2. Kimuraya (Tokyo)
As one of Japan’s most historic bakeries, Kimuraya has been serving its famous anpan (sweet red bean-filled bread) since 1871. Located in the upscale Ginza district, Kimuraya is the birthplace of this iconic Japanese pastry, which was invented as a fusion between Japanese ingredients and Western bread-making techniques. The bakery offers various types of anpan, with fillings ranging from traditional red bean paste to chestnut and matcha.
Must-Try: Anpan (Red Bean, Chestnut)
Location: Ginza, Tokyo
3. LeBRESSO (Osaka)
LeBRESSO is a bakery and café specializing in shokupan, Japan’s famous fluffy milk bread. With its simple yet delightful menu, this Osaka-based bakery elevates shokupan to new heights. You can enjoy thick slices of their freshly baked bread, either toasted with a generous spread of butter and jam or as part of a decadent sandwich. Their signature milk toast, with its buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, is a customer favorite.
Must-Try: Milk Toast with Butter and Jam, Shokupan Sandwiches
Location: Osaka (Multiple locations)
4. Boulangerie Maison Kayser (Tokyo)
Maison Kayser is an international bakery brand founded by French baker Eric Kayser, but its Tokyo branches offer some of the best French pastries in Japan. With a focus on traditional French bread and pastries, Maison Kayser’s croissants, baguettes, and pain au chocolat are all baked to perfection using high-quality ingredients and French techniques.
Must-Try: Croissants, Baguettes, Pain au Chocolat
Location: Tokyo (Multiple locations)
5. Délifrance (Nationwide)
Délifrance is a popular French-style bakery chain with locations across Japan. Known for its buttery croissants, crispy baguettes, and flaky pastries, Délifrance offers a little slice of Paris in the heart of Japan. It’s a great place to grab a freshly baked croissant in the morning or enjoy a light lunch with their sandwiches and quiches.
Must-Try: Croissants, Almond Danish, Sandwiches
Locations: Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and other cities
6. Boulangerie Asanoya (Karuizawa)
Boulangerie Asanoya, located in the picturesque town of Karuizawa, is famous for its rustic, hearty bread and European-style pastries. The bakery has been in operation since 1933 and is known for using high-quality ingredients, often incorporating seasonal fruits and nuts. Asanoya is especially loved for its soft, doughy bread and filled pastries like chestnut and fruit loaves.
Must-Try: Chestnut Loaf, Rustic Bread with Seasonal Fruits
Location: Karuizawa, Nagano
7. Viron (Tokyo)
Viron is a French-style boulangerie located in Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya district. Known for its authentic French bread and pastries, Viron’s baguettes are some of the best in the city. The bakery is also famous for its delicious sandwiches, made with freshly baked baguettes and filled with quality ingredients like cured ham, cheese, and roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to try their decadent éclairs and fruit tarts.
Must-Try: Baguettes, Éclairs, Fruit Tarts
Location: Shibuya, Tokyo
8. Andersen Bakery (Hiroshima)
Founded in 1967, Andersen Bakery in Hiroshima combines Danish baking traditions with Japanese flavors. The bakery offers a wide variety of pastries, including Danish-style cinnamon rolls, custard danishes, and savory breads. Andersen also serves freshly made sandwiches, which are perfect for a quick bite while exploring the city. The bakery’s flagship store in Hiroshima is located in a beautifully restored building, adding to its charm.
Must-Try: Cinnamon Rolls, Custard Danish, Sandwiches
Location: Hiroshima
9. Pompadour (Yokohama)
Established in 1969, Pompadour is a long-standing bakery chain known for its French-inspired baked goods and light, fluffy breads. From crispy baguettes to sweet pastries like apple turnovers and chocolate croissants, Pompadour delivers high-quality bread with a Japanese twist. Their signature melon pan (a sweet bread with a crunchy outer crust) is a must-try for anyone visiting.
Must-Try: Melon Pan, Baguettes, Apple Turnovers
Location: Yokohama and various other locations across Japan
10. Rikuro Ojisan no Mise (Osaka)
Famous for its jiggly Japanese cheesecake, Rikuro Ojisan no Mise is a must-visit bakery if you're in Osaka. The light, airy cheesecake is baked fresh throughout the day and served warm, with a perfectly fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. Topped with raisins and dusted with powdered sugar, this cheesecake is a unique take on a classic dessert that has earned Rikuro’s a dedicated following.
Must-Try: Japanese Cheesecake
Location: Osaka (Multiple locations)
Japan’s bakery scene is a testament to the country’s ability to embrace global culinary traditions while adding its own unique flair. From historic bakeries offering traditional Japanese anpan to modern spots blending French techniques with Japanese ingredients, the variety of baked goods in Japan is truly something to savor. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo, the scenic town of Karuizawa, or the lively atmosphere of Osaka, these bakeries are worth a visit for their unforgettable pastries and bread.
Indulge in the best of Japan’s baking culture, and don’t forget to bring home a few treats for later
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