Tabelog ratingLake Bake (レイクベイク) is an artisan boulangerie on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, celebrated for its dedication to French baking techniques and breads made from house-cultured natural yeast. The shop's main draw is the exceptional quality of its dough, which yields a toasty, flavourful crust and a chewy, aromatic crumb that many visitors compare favourably to bakeries in France. Its location, with clear views of Mount Fuji from the adjacent Oishi Park, makes a visit a memorable part of any trip to the area.
The variety is a consistent point of praise. Regulars recommend arriving at opening for the best selection, which includes savoury focaccias like tomato and mozzarella, scones in flavours such as blueberry or corn, and baguettes like the popular honey-infused 'hachimitsu France'. Other favourites include the 'nuts chocolat', the Camembert stick, and savoury loaves filled with sausage and cheese or potato and butter.
While the bread earns rave reviews, visitors should plan for a takeout experience. The on-site café and terrace are frequently closed, and many popular items sell out by the afternoon. The small on-site car park is strictly managed, and some non-Japanese visitors have found the staff, who have limited English, to be nervous or brusque.
Despite the queues, Lake Bake is considered excellent value. A typical spend is under ¥1,000. Reviewers recently paid around ¥300 for scones, ¥350 for a piece of focaccia or a Camembert stick, and ¥600 for a loaf of the aged bread (熟成パン).
- Getting There: From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Fujikyu Red Line bus to the "Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center" stop. The bakery is a 4-minute walk from there.
- Booking: Reservations are not accepted. Queues are common, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended.
- Payment: Credit cards are not accepted. Be sure to bring cash, though electronic money and QR code payments are also accepted.
- Seating: Primarily a takeout bakery. The 35-seat café and open terrace are often closed. Plan to enjoy your purchases in Oishi Park or by the lake.
- Parking: A small, dedicated lot for 4–5 cars is available. Public parking nearby is an alternative.
- Children: Children are welcome.
- Language: Service is primarily in Japanese, with limited English.
