Miyajima Bakery: Shimauma Pan Breakfast & Fresh Breads

Looking for a great Miyajima bakery to start your day? Just a one-minute walk from Miyajima Pier, Shimauma Pan is an authentic artisan bakery that opened on September 1, 2017, on the first floor of Hotel Miyajima Villa. The bakery’s name reflects the owner’s heartfelt wish to “serve delicious bread from the island,” and you can’t miss the charming zebra face panel at the entrance that has become a local landmark. With its open, welcoming atmosphere, this Miyajima bakery attracts both hotel guests and day-trippers looking for a quick breakfast before exploring the island’s famous temples and shrines.

What makes Shimauma Pan special is its commitment to “Miyajima-style flavors,” created through collaborations with local ingredients and artisans. Think Hiroshima lemons and sea salt, traditional red bean paste from the long-established shop Hakata-ya, and specialty coffee from Ito-ki Coffee. The carefully curated lineup works beautifully both as souvenirs to bring home and as a satisfying breakfast in Miyajima. From early morning, the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread drifts across the island—making it the perfect answer if you’re wondering what to eat in Miyajima before a full day of sightseeing at Itsukushima Shrine and beyond.

Miyajima’s Most Popular Bakery: Why Locals Love Shimauma Pan

Shimauma Pan has become a crowd-favorite bakery on the first floor of Hotel Miyajima Villa, and its location couldn’t be more convenient—just a one-minute walk from Miyajima Pier means you can grab breakfast right after stepping off the ferry. Guided by the philosophy of creating bread you can only taste on this island, the bakers craft a wide variety of original loaves and pastries fresh every single day, using techniques and ingredients that reflect Miyajima’s culinary heritage.

When my family first visited last spring, my youngest daughter got so excited seeing the zebra face cutout at the entrance that she started shouting, “It’s not a panda!” It became an instant family memory. A friendly local also tipped us off that the 7-Eleven near Miyajima Pier is actually called “Japan’s most scenic convenience store” because of its stunning waterfront views—and it’s right next to Shimauma Pan, which is super handy when you need to grab drinks or snacks for the kids during a long day of island exploration.

Enjoy a Leisurely Breakfast at the Kura Vitto Eat-In Space

One of the best features of this Miyajima bakery is that you don’t have to eat on the go. You can enjoy your freshly baked treats at the hotel lounge “Kura Vitto” on the same floor, which provides a comfortable sit-down space with a full drink menu. The lounge is open from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. (last order at 10:30 p.m.) and offers everything from carefully crafted iced coffee made with premium ice to hot beverages perfect for cooler mornings. Since Miyajima’s famous deer can’t wander into the hotel, it’s a relaxed, family-friendly environment that’s especially appreciated by travelers with young children or strollers.

Just last month, I brought both my daughters here for a peaceful breakfast before our day of sightseeing. Not having to worry about curious deer trying to snatch their food was such a relief—any parent who has visited Miyajima knows exactly what I mean! The space is also completely stroller-accessible, and if you’re traveling with an infant and need a nursing room, there’s one available on the second floor of the Miyajima Tourist Information Center along Omotesando Shopping Street, just a short walk away.

My advice? Before you head down Omotesando Shopping Street to browse for souvenirs and sample street food, fuel up with a satisfying breakfast at Shimauma Pan first. You’ll have the energy you need for a full day of exploring.

Inside Shimauma Pan: A Bright and Welcoming Space

The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the heavenly scent of fresh bakes still warm from the oven. The bright, cheerful interior makes browsing and choosing your bread part of the fun—displays are well-organized and everything is clearly labeled in both Japanese and English. In our family, my husband handles the photography while I wrangle the kids and make sure they don’t touch everything—teamwork definitely makes the bread shopping experience more enjoyable!

Miyajima Blueberry Bread: The Number One Souvenir Choice

If you’re only going to buy one thing to bring home, make it the Miyajima Blueberry Bread. This rich dessert bread is absolutely bursting with Hiroshima-grown blueberries and smooth cream cheese throughout. Enjoyed straight from the package, it tastes remarkably like a rare cheesecake—dense, creamy, and not overly sweet. When you toast it, the buttery aroma becomes even more pronounced and the texture transforms into something truly special. The bread comes packaged in an attractive original box, making it an ideal souvenir from Miyajima that travels well and impresses recipients back home.

When I brought this as a gift for my mother-in-law after our last trip, she exclaimed, “I had no idea Miyajima had such delicious bread! This is better than what we get at fancy department stores!” My youngest daughter polished off her entire portion in record time, declaring that it tasted just like her favorite cheesecake. It’s become our go-to Miyajima gift for friends and family.

Must-Try Breads at Shimauma Pan: Local Favorites

Lemon Anpan (300 yen including tax)

This refreshing take on anpan—a classic Japanese sweet bun traditionally filled with red bean paste—features layers of house-made white bean paste mixed with fragrant lemon peel and smooth cream cheese. The dough itself is wonderfully moist with a gentle sweetness that doesn’t overwhelm, the bean paste has a clean and delicate flavor profile, and the cream cheese adds a lush creaminess that balances everything perfectly. It’s not overly sweet like some Japanese pastries can be, making it surprisingly approachable even if you’re new to Japanese bakery flavors or typically find bean paste too rich.

This particular bread is my eldest daughter’s absolute favorite—she loves how the lemon aroma cuts through the richness and keeps it feeling fresh. She’s right; the sweetness level is perfectly calibrated, making it enjoyable even for children who might normally turn their noses up at traditional Japanese sweets.

Salted Bean Paste Butter: A Collaboration Unique to Miyajima

This clever creation features a crisp, lightly salted exterior dough filled with traditional red bean paste from the renowned local shop “Hakata-ya” and a generous pat of unsalted butter. The salt-sweet-butter combination creates an addictive flavor profile, and the bread is perfectly sized for handheld eating while you’re on the move, making it an ideal snack to enjoy while strolling around Miyajima’s temples and shrines.

Since this is an official collaboration with Hakata-ya, a shop that has been perfecting their bean paste for generations, you know the quality is going to be exceptional. The bread is compact and palm-sized, making it perfect for grabbing as a quick energy boost before or after visiting Itsukushima Shrine. The combination of textures—crispy exterior, smooth bean paste, and melting butter—is truly something special.

After you finish visiting Itsukushima Shrine and walking through the iconic floating torii gate area, definitely plan to stop by this bakery to refuel.

Barley Fig (270 yen including tax)

This sophisticated bread features a nutty barley dough that conceals a whole dried fig and a delicate touch of cream cheese at its center. The bakers use a special domestic barley flour called “Baguette Nouveau,” which is prized among artisan bakers for its distinctive nutty aroma and superior texture. When you warm this petite loaf slightly, it becomes wonderfully dense and satisfying—almost like a meal in itself. Fig-studded breads are quite rare, even in Japan, and this one delivers a taste remarkably similar to spreadable fig jam. The pairing of sweet figs with tangy cream cheese creates a delightful surprise with each bite, making it unlike anything else you’ll find in Miyajima.

I’ll admit, when I first saw “fig bread” on the menu, I was skeptical—I thought, “Figs in bread? Really?” But after one bite, I was completely converted. It’s now become a family favorite, and I regularly recommend it to my health-conscious mom friends who appreciate the nutritional benefits of figs and whole grains. The barley adds a wonderful earthy quality that makes this feel more wholesome than a typical sweet pastry.

Sea Salt Bread: Made with Hiroshima’s Famous Sea Salt

Sometimes the simplest preparations are the most satisfying, and this sea salt bread is a perfect example. With a crispy, golden exterior and an airy, fluffy interior, this straightforward loaf lets the quality of the wheat really shine through. The secret ingredient is Hiroshima-produced sea salt, which enhances the natural umami of the bread and adds subtle mineral notes that you won’t find in ordinary table salt. It’s such a popular choice that many locals buy multiple loaves at once to serve as their everyday table bread throughout the week.

Because it uses authentic Hiroshima-produced sea salt—a product this region is genuinely famous for—you’re getting a truly local flavor that you can’t replicate elsewhere. The beautiful simplicity of this bread really allows you to appreciate the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the bakers. It’s wonderful toasted with butter for breakfast or served alongside soup or salad.

Fresh Bread “Goku”: The Perfect Gift to Bring Home

This signature loaf is known throughout the region for its remarkably soft, chewy texture that extends all the way to the crust—no dry edges here. Each loaf is branded with the word “Miyajima” right on top, making it an instantly recognizable souvenir. Both the half-size and full-size options (which come as 2 loaves) are extremely popular as gifts to bring back from your trip. You can enjoy this bread’s rich, buttery aroma whether you eat it fresh and pillowy-soft right out of the package or toast it until golden and crispy.

The Miyajima branding stamped right on the bread is absolutely adorable and makes it clear where this special loaf came from. I frequently buy this as a gift for my family back home when they can’t join us on our Miyajima trips. The bread is delicious even when eaten completely fresh without toasting, which makes it perfect for quick breakfasts when you’re trying to get the kids fed and out the door for school.

Other Specialty Breads Worth Trying

The creativity doesn’t stop with the breads mentioned above. The bakery offers several other unique creations that showcase local collaborations and innovative thinking:

• Miyajima Coffee Cream Bread — A collaboration with Ito-ki Coffee featuring aromatic house-made coffee cream that coffee lovers will absolutely appreciate
• “Super Sandwich” series — Designed by the hotel’s chef, these substantial sandwiches are loaded with premium fillings like tender roast beef, crispy pork cutlet, and fresh vegetables
• Barley Fig — For health-conscious travelers, this option is rich in dietary fiber and made with ingredients that are gentle on the stomach while still delivering satisfying flavor

The Ito-ki Coffee collaboration bread deserves special mention—it represents a partnership between two of Miyajima’s most beloved establishments, and you can really feel the local pride and attention to detail that went into developing it. It’s these kinds of thoughtful collaborations that make Shimauma Pan more than just another bakery.

Speaking of local specialties, the grilled anago rice (conger eel) available at restaurants around the island is also exceptional—why not plan to try it for lunch after you’ve enjoyed your morning bread?

Payment Methods: Easy for International Travelers

Shimauma Pan accepts a wide range of payment options, making transactions smooth and convenient for international visitors. You can pay with major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB), transportation IC cards (such as Suica, Pasmo, ICOCA), electronic money (Rakuten Edy, nanaco, WAON, iD, QUICPay), and all major QR code payment systems including PayPay, Rakuten Pay, and Line Pay. These extensive cashless options eliminate the need to carry large amounts of Japanese yen, which is especially helpful when you’re traveling with family.

As a parent constantly juggling kids, bags, and strollers, I can tell you that smartphone payment options are an absolute lifesaver. Being able to just tap my phone instead of digging through my purse for exact change while my daughters are getting impatient? Priceless. You don’t need to worry about having cash on hand at all.

Business Hours and Smart Tips for Avoiding Crowds

The bakery typically opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes at 5:00 p.m., though they may close earlier if popular items sell out completely. The widest selection of breads is available in the morning, particularly before noon. Popular items can sell out quickly during peak tourist seasons, but here’s the good news: the bakers produce fresh batches roughly every hour throughout the day, so sold-out items often become available again after a short wait. For the ultimate Miyajima breakfast experience before heading to Itsukushima Shrine—or before sampling other local specialties like grilled anago rice (Hiroshima conger eel) along the shopping street—plan to arrive early in the morning when everything is freshly baked and the selection is at its peak.

As someone who lives locally and has visited at various times, I can tell you that weekday afternoons between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. tend to be the quietest periods with the shortest lines. However, during major tourist seasons (spring cherry blossom season, summer vacation, and fall foliage season), your best bet is to visit either first thing in the morning right when they open or in the late afternoon before closing. The mid-morning to early afternoon window can get quite busy with tour groups and day-trippers from Hiroshima.

If you’re planning a full day of activities, consider that Yamada-ya, where you can experience making momiji manju (Miyajima’s famous maple leaf-shaped cakes) by hand, is located nearby—making it easy to combine both experiences in a single morning outing.

Special Event Appearances and Pop-Ups

Shimauma Pan’s reputation extends beyond the island itself. The bakery regularly appears for limited runs at prestigious department store events throughout Hiroshima Prefecture, including Tenmaya and Sogo, where they set up temporary shops selling their most popular items. These pop-up appearances give mainland residents a chance to enjoy Miyajima flavors without making the ferry trip, though nothing quite beats visiting the original location. For the most current information about upcoming events, special promotions, and limited-edition seasonal breads, be sure to check their official Instagram account, which they update regularly with beautiful photos and announcements.

The fact that they also set up at major department stores within the prefecture means there are additional opportunities to purchase their breads even when you can’t make it all the way to Miyajima. I definitely recommend following their social media—it’s handy to know when they’ll be at a location closer to home!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shimauma Pan

Q. What are Shimauma Pan’s exact business hours?

A. The bakery is generally open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, but they may close earlier than scheduled if they sell out of their baked goods for the day. During peak tourist seasons, arriving in the morning ensures the best selection.

Q. Can I eat my purchases inside the bakery?

A. Yes! You can enjoy your bread purchases at Kura Vitto, the hotel lounge located on the same floor. The lounge operates from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. (last order 10:30 p.m.) and offers a full beverage menu. You can order drinks only without purchasing additional food if you prefer.

Q. What payment methods do you accept?

A. The bakery accepts all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB), electronic money (transportation IC cards like Suica, plus Rakuten Edy, nanaco, WAON, iD, QUICPay), and QR code payments (PayPay, Rakuten Pay, Line Pay, etc.). Cash is also accepted, of course.

Q. When is the best time to visit if I want to buy the most popular breads?

A. Early morning, ideally arriving between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m., gives you the best chance of getting everything on your wish list. Fresh batches are baked throughout the day, but signature items like the Miyajima Blueberry Bread can sell out by mid-morning during busy periods.

Q. Is the bakery stroller-accessible for families with young children?

A. Yes, absolutely! The store is spacious with minimal steps and wide aisles, making it very comfortable to navigate with a stroller. The connected Kura Vitto lounge is also stroller-friendly, providing a relaxed space where you don’t have to worry about Miyajima’s curious deer.

Q. Is there parking available nearby?

A. Parking at the hotel is reserved exclusively for guests staying at Hotel Miyajima Villa. Day-trippers and tourists are advised to use the paid parking facilities at Miyajima-guchi on the mainland and take the ferry across (about 10 minutes). However, here’s a local tip: if you arrive before 8:00 a.m., the parking area behind Momiji Honpo sometimes has available spots, though this isn’t guaranteed during peak seasons.

For comprehensive information about parking options, ferry schedules, and access routes to Miyajima, check out our detailed guide:

Q. Does the bakery have any regular holidays or closing days?

A. Shimauma Pan is generally open year-round without regular weekly holidays, making it reliably available whenever you visit the island. However, they may occasionally close on specific days when Hotel Miyajima Villa undergoes scheduled maintenance or during major holidays. Always check their official website or Instagram for the most current information before making a special trip.

Q. Can I reserve or pre-order breads by phone?

A. Yes, depending on availability and what you’d like to order, you can make reservations by calling ahead. This is especially helpful if you’re planning to buy multiple loaves as gifts or if you’re specifically interested in items that tend to sell out quickly. The staff speaks primarily Japanese, but they’re accustomed to helping international visitors.

Summary: Why Shimauma Pan Should Be on Your Miyajima Itinerary

Located on the first floor of Hotel Miyajima Villa, approximately a one-minute walk from Miyajima Pier, this popular bakery combines unbeatable convenience with exceptional quality, making it ideal for a quick yet satisfying breakfast in Miyajima. Bread enthusiasts and casual visitors alike should definitely make time to stop by—unique items like the fig-and-cream-cheese loaves and Hiroshima blueberry bread are virtually impossible to find elsewhere, even in other parts of Japan. The simple zebra logo has become an iconic symbol on the island, and the ability to enjoy your purchases at the comfortable Kura Vitto lounge on the same floor elevates the experience beyond a simple bakery visit.

As a truly local Miyajima bakery that prioritizes collaborations with other island businesses and regional producers, Shimauma Pan excels both as a spot for fresh takeout breakfast and as a source for memorable souvenirs to bring home. It has become one of our family’s favorite spots on the island, a place we look forward to visiting on every trip, and we’ll absolutely keep coming back for years to come. The combination of quality, convenience, and authentic local flavors makes it an essential stop for any Miyajima visitor.

The bakery is also perfectly positioned before or after tackling Mount Misen, which you can easily access via the scenic ropeway system for spectacular island views:

Please note: All information including prices, hours, and menu items is subject to change. We recommend checking the bakery’s official website or Instagram account for the most up-to-date details before your visit.

Planning a family-friendly trip to Miyajima with children? Don’t miss these other kid-approved attractions on the island: