A must-visit bakery in Osaka/Umeda

If you are planning a trip to Osaka and have a sweet tooth, be sure to stop by “Kokoro ni Amai Anpan-ya” (hereinafter ‘Anpan-ya’) located in the heart of Umeda, Osaka.

What is Anpan? A Guide to Japan’s Classic Sweet Bun

This popular bakery, Anpan-ya specializes in “Anpan“.
But what is “Anpan”?

Anpan is a Japanese sweet bun filled with red bean paste made from azuki beans.
餡 / An : Sweet red bean
パン / Pan : Bread, bun

There are various types of anpan, each distinguished by the type of red bean paste used.

• Tsubu anpan: “Tsubu-an” is a chunky red bean paste where the azuki beans are left partially intact, giving it a textured bite. Anpan filled with tsubu-an offers a more rustic, hearty flavor.
• Koshi anpan: This type of anpan is filled with” “koshi-an”, a smooth red bean paste made from azuki beans. The beans are carefully strained to remove the skins, resulting in a silky texture.
  
• Yomogi anpan: This anpan is made with yomogi (mugwort) flavored dough and filled with red bean paste.
  
• Kuri anpan (chestnut): This variety of anpan is filled with “kuri-an”, a sweet chestnut paste made from mashed chestnuts. The paste has a rich, nutty flavor that complements the soft, sweet bread.
  

About Anpan-ya : Osaka’s Beloved Anpan Bakery

Anpan-ya is a bakery that specializes in anpan, a beloved snack that has deep roots in Japanese culinary history. The bakery’s name “Kokoro ni Amai Anpan-ya” translates to “A Sweet Hearted Anpan Shop,” reflecting its dedication to making each pastry with care and affection.

The bakery is known for more than just its delicious anpan. One standout feature is the variety of fillings available, ranging from the classic red bean paste to seasonal flavors like matcha, chestnut, and even custard cream. Each bun is baked fresh daily, and the bakery takes pride in using high-quality ingredients sourced from across Japan.

Here are my top three picks.

Please note that Anpan-ya currently accepts cash payments only. (as of Sep. 2024)

Location

Address: 9-26 Kakudacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0017, Japan (located in Shin-Umeda Shokudogai)
Hours: 10:00am – 9:30pm
Closed: Irregular (no fixed days off)

Anpan-ya is conveniently located in the bustling Umeda area, which makes it easily accessible from both JR Osaka Station and Hankyu Umeda Station. To help you find the bakery, here are step-by-step directions from both stations, along with tips to guide you along the way.

Directions from JR Osaka Station:

1. Exit the Central Gate: After arriving at JR Osaka Station, head towards the Central Exit. This is one of the main exits that leads into the wider Umeda area.
2. Head towards Grand Front Osaka and Yodobashi Camera: Follow signs that guide you towards Grand Front Osaka and Yodobashi Camera—two well-known landmarks in the area.
3. Walk towards Yodobashi Camera: Walk towards Yodobashi Camera and continue walking along the store.
4. Cross the Intersection: After crossing the street, you will see Anpan-ya on your right.

Directions from Hankyu Umeda Station:

1. Exit the Main Gates: After getting off at Hankyu Umeda Station, head towards the main exit (recommend using the 3rd floor exit).
2. Walk towards Yodobashi Camara and Grand Front Osaka: Follow signs that guide you towards Grand Front Osaka and Yodobashi Camera.
3. Locate McDonald’s: Once you are walking towards Yodobashi Camera, you will see a McDonald’s nearby.  When you find the McDonald’s, continue along the same street. Anpan-ya is on the corner.

There is another Anpan-ya location in Osaka, located in Tennoji Mio which is a a large shopping complex near JR Tennoji Station.
And there are four locations in Nagoya.

Menu and Gift Boxes

MENU
They have menus in different languages. (English, Chinese, etc.) Check the store counter.

GIFT BOXES
Are you visiting your friends or families in Japan?
Anpan-ya offers boxed assortments, making it a great option for gifts or as a thoughtful souvenir.