Hello there!
I’m Kurumikko, a SaruKuma writer ♪

I’m a mom of a 3-year-old, and this is my very first article.
Thank you for reading (*’▽’*)

Today I’d like to introduce you to a hidden gem located in
Yamato Town, Kamimashiki District, Kumamoto Prefecture:
“Pan Koubou Yama-GEN” — a cozy little bakery worth the drive!

The exterior looks like something straight out of a Grimm fairy tale — absolutely charming! ☺

You’ll find the shop along National Route 218, surrounded by the lush nature of Yamato Town.

A warm, hand-painted sign decorated with plants reads “Apple Pie”…
Could this be the bakery’s signature item?

Even before stepping inside, my heart was already racing with excitement (*’▽’*)

The moment I opened the door, a wonderful toasty aroma greeted me (*´ω`*)

Lined up beautifully were the famous Apple Pies and Scones mentioned on the sign outside.

Next to the register, a glass case displayed mouthwatering cakes and tarts — every sweet tooth’s dream!

Since we arrived right at opening time, only the front row of baked goods was filled. I’m sure the back rows fill up as the day goes on!

What’s special about Yama-GEN is their commitment to natural, carefully selected ingredients!

◆ Apple Pie — 420 yen

◆ Chestnut (Marron) Pie — 420 yen

◆ Blueberry Scone — 320 yen

◆ Whole Wheat Scone — 320 yen

◆ Pumpkin & Raisin Scone — 320 yen (not yet on display when we visited ☺)

◆ Chocolate Scone — 320 yen

◆ Passion Fruit Scone — 320 yen

◆ Garagaradon (5 pieces) — 360 yen
This is Yama-GEN’s most popular item — adorable bite-sized rolls!

I picked up some Garagaradon as a souvenir. They have a satisfying, hearty chew and were absolutely delicious!

As a personal scone lover, seeing four different varieties on display had me beyond excited!

Once you’ve made your selection, you can enjoy your treats in the stylish café space attached to the bakery.

Sunlight streams in beautifully, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere (*´▽｀*)

They even have child-sized chairs available!

There’s also outdoor terrace seating.

Beyond the seat shown here, there are about four more spots to choose from!

On a sunny day, eating outside makes everything taste even better.

And here’s the biggest surprise!

Behind the bakery, there’s a slide and a sandbox!

Kids will absolutely lose their minds with joy (*’∀’*)

And since there’s a table right nearby, parents can enjoy a relaxed meal while the little ones play!

For families, eating out usually means stress and feeling rushed — so this setup is truly a blessing!
(Just be sure to bring a change of clothes in case things get messy.)

Honestly, you might end up staying way longer than planned (*’▽’*)

They accept various credit cards and electronic payment methods, too!

Recommended Menu Items

This time, I tried the Apple Pie, Blueberry Scone, and the takeaway-friendly Margherita Pizza.

Here’s the famous Apple Pie from the entrance sign!
Generous chunks of apple paired with crispy, flaky pastry —
It was incredibly delicious!
No wonder it’s the bakery’s signature item (*’▽’*)

And here’s the Blueberry Scone (*’▽’*)

My little one was already eyeing it before I could even snap a photo!

It’s a crisp, crumbly scone packed with rich blueberry flavor —
Absolutely delightful (*´▽｀*)

Now I want to try all the other scone varieties too!

Last but not least — the Margherita Pizza!

I had already picked out my baked goods and was at the register when this pizza caught my eye, and I had to order it on the spot.

The original pizza varieties looked tempting, but this time I went with the classic Margherita!

I enjoyed it dine-in style, fresh and piping hot from the oven (*´▽｀*)

CHEEEEEEEEEEEEESE

Chewy, perfectly baked dough
Melty, gooey hot cheese

It’s a simple Margherita, but it was honestly one of the best I’ve had (*´▽｀*)

From the food to the family-friendly setup, this place truly thinks of everything!

Pan Koubou Yama-GEN, I’ll definitely be back next time I visit Yamato Town (*’▽’*)

Thank you for the wonderful meal!

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is current as of the time of writing. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.