Au Pan & Coffee: Kurokawa Onsen bakery living with the community

Nestled in the serene town of Minamioguni, Kumamoto Prefecture, Au Pan & Coffee is a delightful café that offers a unique blend of local flavors and community spirit.

A Community-Centric Approach

The establishment of Au Pan & Coffee is part of the broader “Au Kurokawa” project, aimed at revitalizing the Kurokawa Onsen area. The café supports sustainable practices and strengthens community ties. Collaborations with local artisans, such as the use of Oguni cedar for interior lighting and ceramics crafted by local potters, further emphasize this commitment.

A Taste of Local Tradition

Au Pan & Coffee is more than just a café; it’s a celebration of local produce and craftsmanship. The café prides itself on using ingredients sourced from nearby farms, ensuring that every bite reflects the rich agricultural heritage of the region. From freshly baked bread to aromatic coffee, each item on the menu tells a story of dedication and passion.

One of the standout offerings is the “Super Soft White Bread (Shoku-pan),” which was developed based on the concept of “drinkable bread”. The bread is baked without water, using only Jersey milk from Aso, and is characterized by its softness and the sweetness of the milk. The milk used is the familiar “Yama-no-Ibuki” mountain-blossom-colored Jersey milk familiar to everyone in the Kurokawa Onsen hot spring village.

A Cozy Retreat for Travelers

Visitors to Au Pan & Coffee can enjoy their treats in a relaxed setting, with outdoor seating available on the lawn and benches. The café’s warm ambiance and friendly staff make it an ideal stop for those exploring the Kurokawa Onsen area. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or settling in for a leisurely coffee, the café offers a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with both locals and tourists.

The coffee is an original blend that we roast ourselves based on the concept of “going well with bread”.
The natural sweetness of the beans and the aroma of caramel and roasted almonds make it a must with bread.

Plan Your Visit

• Coffee: I ordered an iced coffee, which tasted sour and authentic. Next time, I would like to have a hot one.
• Super Soft White Bread: The Japanese call it “shoku-pan,” and this restaurant’s bread is not much different in appearance. However, when you actually try it, you will find that it is overwhelmingly different from other Shoku-pan. As the name suggests, it is super soft. I felt that it was better to eat it without toasting, as I felt it lost some of its goodness when toasted.
• Access: Frankly, I felt it was too far to walk from the Kurokawa Onsen area. If you are traveling by car, it would be better to drive, although parking is free for the first 20 minutes and 200 yen per hour. (Prices are as of April 2025)

Experience the Essence of Minamioguni

Au Pan & Coffee offers more than just delicious food and drinks; it provides a window into the heart of Minamioguni’s community. By embracing local ingredients and fostering collaborations with regional artisans, the café stands as a testament to the area’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, a stop at Au Pan & Coffee promises a memorable experience that captures the spirit of Kurokawa Onsen.

Ready to explore the flavors of Minamioguni? Make sure to add Au Pan & Coffee to your itinerary and immerse yourself in the authentic tastes and warm hospitality that define this charming café.

Kaz / Mr.Kyushu

Kyushu Lover

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