The City Bakery Hakuba | Pastries, Coffee & Mountain Views at Iwatake
The City Bakery Hakuba | Pastries, Coffee & Mountain Views at Iwatake
Located at the summit of Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort, The City Bakery at Hakuba Mountain Harbor offers freshly baked pastries, premium coffee, and stunning views of the Northern Japanese Alps. Originally founded in New York in 1990, The City Bakery is known for its signature pretzels, rich hot chocolate, and artisan breads. The Hakuba branch brings this urban café experience to the mountains, making it one of the most popular stops for both breakfast and afternoon breaks during a day at Iwatake.

The highlight of The City Bakery Hakuba is undoubtedly the viewing deck, which is connected to the café and offers one of the clearest, unobstructed panoramas of the Northern Japanese Alps at the Hakuba Mountain Harbor. Guests often step outside with their coffee or pastry to take in the scenery, and it has become one of the most photographed spots at Iwatake Mountain Resort. The deck sometimes attracts a small line of tourists who que specifically for a picture of the dramatic mountain backdrop, making it a must-visit location for anyone looking to capture Hakuba’s signature alpine views.

The same stunning mountain view can also be enjoyed from inside The City Bakery Hakuba. Large floor-to-ceiling windows line the café, allowing guests to take in the Northern Japanese Alps from the comfort of a warm, wood-accented interior. The natural light, cozy seating, and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal spot for those who prefer to appreciate the scenery indoors while enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Whatever the season, the indoor seating provides a clear and impressive vantage point of the Hakuba mountain range.

The City Bakery Hakuba offers a wide selection of drinks that make it one of the most popular café stops at Iwatake Mountain Resort. Visitors can enjoy freshly brewed espresso drinks, drip coffee, seasonal lattes, and the bakery’s signature hot chocolate. Iced coffee and iced tea options are available during the green season, making it a refreshing break for hikers and sightseeing guests. All drinks are made to order and pair well with the café’s indoor window seating or the outdoor viewing deck, both of which overlook the Hakuba mountain range.

Freshly baked pastries are a key highlight of The City Bakery Hakuba, attracting guests looking for breakfast, snacks, or light meals at the summit of Iwatake. The bakery prepares croissants, pretzel rolls, cookies, and assorted pastries daily. For travelers wanting something more substantial, a variety of sandwiches made with City Bakery’s artisan breads are available for dine-in or takeout.

The City Bakery Hakuba is open year-round, making it a great stop in any season. During winter, it’s a favorite among skiers and snowboarders coming up from Iwatake’s slopes. In the green season, hikers and sightseers stop by for a light meal and the iconic view of the valley, which is a vibrant green in summer and shifts to brilliant orange and gold in autumn. The combination of high-quality baked goods, rich coffee, and a fantastic view of the Japanese Northern Alps makes this one of the top cafés in Hakuba for both locals and travelers looking for a place to unwind and enjoy the mountains.
For those spending the day at Iwatake Mountain Resort in Hakuba, it’s easy to pair a stop at The City Bakery with nearby attractions such as CHAVATY HAKUBA and the Yoo-Hoo Swing. Together, these spots create a perfect combination of good food, great drinks, and breathtaking mountain views — a true highlight of Iwatake.
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FAQs:
What do they serve?
The City Bakery Hakuba serves baked goods like cookies, croissant, sandwiches, coffee, and hot chocolate. A selection of pastries and drinks are available for both eat-in and takeout.
How do I get there?
The bakery is located at the summit of Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort beside Hakuba Mountain Harbor. You can reach it by taking the Iwatake Gondola Lift from the base station.
Is it open year-round?
Yes, The City Bakery Hakuba operates in both the winter and green seasons, offering different menus and terrace seating depending on the time of year.


