What Is Himokawa Udon? How to Eat Japan’s Ultra-Wide Flat Noodles
About 2 min read
“Himokawa udon” is a Gunma Prefecture specialty known for its strikingly wide noodles. Faced with its impressive appearance, many people may wonder how to eat it. That’s why we asked Himokawa Udon Kiryu Ikebukuro Branch to share their tips on the best ways to enjoy this unique noodle dish!
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【Advised by】Himokawa Udon Kiryu Ikebukuro Branch
Table of Contents
What Is “Himokawa Udon”?
“Himokawa udon” is a type of flat udon noodle that originated in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture. The noodles are at least 1.5 cm wide, and some can reach nearly 10 cm in width. They have traditionally been used in a local Gunma dish called okkirikomi.
As for the origin of the name, there are various theories, including that it derives from “Imokawa udon,” the root of kishimen noodles, which gradually became corrupted over time.
How to Order
At Himokawa Udon Kiryu Ikebukuro, you can choose from four styles: “himokawa,” regular “udon,” an “aigakari” option that lets you enjoy both, and “yakan-style kama-age udon,” where zaru-style noodles are served as hot udon.
This time, we went with the classic choice: “7 kinds of green onions dipping pork broth” paired with “himokawa.”
An order sheet is placed on the table, so simply circle the items you want and hand it to the staff.
Enjoy Himokawa Udon Your Way
After about a 15-minute wait, the himokawa udon arrives!
The himokawa udon at this restaurant measures about 11 cm in width, making these noodles exceptionally wide. Freshly made, the udon glistens beautifully with a silky sheen.
There’s no single correct way to eat himokawa udon, but here are a few recommended ways to enjoy it!
Way #1: Quickly Dip the Noodles into the Pork Broth
First, generously coat the noodles with the pork broth and enjoy them boldly.
You’ll savor the chewy texture of the noodles and their smooth, slippery mouthfeel.
Way #2: Soak the Noodles and Fold Them
Another recommended method is to soak the noodles in the broth and fold them as you eat. The folds hold the broth, so when you take a bite, the flavorful soup—packed with the umami of green onions, pork, and other ingredients—bursts into your mouth.
If it feels a bit difficult to eat, try tearing the noodles into bite-sized pieces in the broth.
Way #3: Add Green Onions and Condiments
Add the green onions served on a separate plate or sprinkle in some shichimi chili pepper from the table to change up the flavor.
The added aroma will further stimulate your appetite.
Bonus: Squeeze Some Lemon
If lemon is provided, squeezing it over the noodles adds a refreshing twist.
Tempura: The Perfect Side Dish
Tempura is the perfect accompaniment to udon. At this restaurant, there are more than 10 varieties, including pumpkin and shrimp tempura, all made without eggs.
This time, we chose the most popular item: maitake mushroom tempura!
Two palm-sized pieces come with each order, making it a hearty and satisfying choice.
Dip it into the pork broth to soften it slightly, or enjoy it simply with salt—however you like.
The ways to enjoy ultra-wide, flat “himokawa udon” are endless. Use the tips introduced here as a guide and explore your own favorite way to enjoy this unique noodle dish!
A specialty restaurant dedicated to himokawa udon, run by an owner from Kiryu City in Gunma Prefecture. Many visitors from Japan and abroad come specifically for the ultra-wide noodles, prized for their chewy texture and satisfying firmness. As the restaurant closes once the noodles sell out, be sure to check the official social media accounts for the latest updates.
*The information is based on the time of reporting or creation, and may differ from the current situation.
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