Do you enjoy slurping cold Japanese noodles on a hot summer day? Hida Takayama is famous for its Takayama ramen (a regional style of ramen, also known as “Chuka Soba” or Chinese soba) and fragrant Japanese soba. But our local staff has a hidden gem to share: cold, handmade udon noodles with tempura! You can find these refreshing noodles at Udon-dokoro Yanagibashi Jikuu (饂飩処 柳ばし 時空), a locally loved udon shop that we visit all the time.
What is Japanese Udon?
Udon is one of Japan’s traditional noodles made from wheat flour, kneaded and cut into long, thick strands which are much thicker than spaghetti or ramen noodles. The firmness, thickness, and length vary from shop to shop, giving you a unique and delicious experience wherever you go. While thinner varieties are generally called hiyamugi or somen, there are no strict rules regarding thickness for udon noodles.
Why We Love Udon Dokoro Yanagibashi Jikuu
If you’re in Takayama, we recommend stopping by Udon Dokoro Yanagibashi Jikuu, where you can enjoy their handmade udon noodles. Their version of udon is slightly thinner than typical udon, with a firm, chewy texture, prepared using water from the Northern Alps.
While everything on their menu is delicious, we especially recommend their cold udon noodles with crispy tempura made from seasonal vegetables. Dip both the udon and tempura in their flavorful dashi broth for a refreshing and filling meal!
This family-run restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place to take a break during your Takayama sightseeing.
Getting There
Udon Dokoro Yanagibashi Jikuu is located about a 5-minute walk from JR Takayama Station, heading straight east toward the old town streets. The shop is usually closed on Thursdays and open during both lunch and dinner hours. For more information or local recommendations, be sure to ask our MACHIYA INNS & HOTELS staff during your stay with us in Takayama!
Discover our other summer food recommendations, featuring locally loved spots, Kaiseki resturants, and hidden gems in Takayama that you’re sure to enjoy.
