Introducing HARE/PAN

Hello travelers!
I’m Binako, a writer for Sarukuma, still trying to figure out what to call that mysterious phenomenon where toys keep multiplying no matter how often you tidy up!

Today I’m excited to share a bakery located in Tamukae, Minami Ward, Kumamoto City—the newly opened “Pure Cream Shokupan Workshop: Sunny, Sometimes Bread,” better known as HARE/PAN. The shop opened its doors on June 2nd.

The exterior has a beautifully refined Japanese aesthetic—and there’s a good reason for that.

HARE/PAN is a specialty shop dedicated to freshly baked premium shokupan, supervised by master Japanese cuisine chef Toru Nakagawa.

The parking area is shared with Kimi to Whip, another lovely spot we’ve previously featured.

https://sarukuma.info/gourmet/post-42588

I had the pleasure of visiting just before the official opening.

The moment I stepped inside, the warm, toasty aroma of freshly baked wheat absolutely won me over.

Each freshly baked loaf is carefully removed from its mold by hand and placed gently into position—one by one, with painstaking care.

It reminded me of a mother trying not to trigger that invisible “back switch” on a sleeping baby—every movement deliberate and tender.

HARE/PAN uses an original blend of wheat flour developed exclusively for the brand. The bread is also completely egg-free, making it a safe option for those with egg allergies.

Plus, the use of pure fresh cream creates a remarkably smooth texture that lets the rich flavor truly shine through.

Important note: This bread contains honey,
so it should not be given to infants under one year of age.

One loaf (2 kin / approx. 2 standard Japanese loaves) is just 800 yen (excluding tax)—incredibly reasonable for the quality.

It’s perfect for sharing with family or stocking up for breakfast all week long.

Reservations can be made online or by phone.
( Online reservations are available HERE )

For your very first bite after purchase, I highly recommend
tearing off a piece by hand and eating it plain.
Trust me on this one.

It’s the best way to fully appreciate the natural flavor and aroma of the bread.

HARE/PAN’s Must-Try Menu

Now let’s dive into the signature Pure Cream Shokupan (1 loaf, 800 yen excl. tax).

From the perfectly golden crust to the irresistible aroma, every detail screams “delicious.”

The texture is wonderfully fluffy and pillowy.

It melts beautifully in your mouth, with a lingering sweetness that makes it nearly impossible to stop at just one piece.

“Even the crust is delicious.”

“I want to eat the crust!”
The edges are so soft and packed with flavor that they’ll have everyone reaching for them first.

From the rich wheat aroma to the gentle sweetness and that signature chewy texture—I can already picture families happily competing for the last slice.

Of course, it’s also wonderfully versatile.

Enjoy it plain, toasted, or dressed up with your favorite toppings—it’ll make stepping into the kitchen feel like a treat.

If you’re visiting Kumamoto, definitely add HARE/PAN to your list!

https://sarukuma.info/gourmet/post-42588

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Frequently Asked Questions

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