Mie’s Specialty Gourmet "Ise Udon"— Traditional Udon with Extra-Thick & Chewy Texture!
When visiting Mie Prefecture, you must try the famous gourmet dish, "Ise Udon."
Unlike typical udon, it features extra-thick, soft noodles paired with a rich, dark sauce that you mix and enjoy.
This article provides a detailed introduction to the history, the secret of its deliciousness, and recommended eateries for Ise Udon!
What is Ise Udon?— Features Extra-Thick Soft Noodles and a Rich Sauce
1. Characteristics of Ise Udon
The biggest characteristic of Ise Udon is its extra-thick and soft noodles.
Compared to regular udon, it has a very long boiling time, resulting in a soft and chewy texture.
Additionally, it is eaten by mixing with a soy sauce-based sweet and savory dark sauce.
The combination of the chewy noodles and rich sauce is exquisite!
2. How is it Different from Regular Udon?
Comparison Ise Udon Regular UdonNoodle Thickness Extra-Thick Normal to Thin Noodle Firmness Soft Firm Sauce Characteristics Soy Sauce-Based Rich Sauce Broth (more dashi) Eating Style Mix with Sauce Eat in BrothHistory of Ise Udon— A Traditional Taste Continuing from the Edo Period
1. Origin of Ise Udon
Ise Udon is said to have started being served to pilgrims visiting Ise Jingu during the Edo period.
It originated from serving pre-boiled udon noodles to allow pilgrims to eat quickly.
2. Connection with Ise Jingu
Ise Jingu is one of Japan's oldest shrines, famous for "O-Ise Mairi."
Ise Udon developed as a quick and easy meal option for the pilgrims visiting from all over Japan.
Even now, the area around Ise Jingu is lined with many long-established Ise Udon shops and is popular with tourists.
Recommended Ise Udon Shops— Where to Eat in the Birthplace!
1. Fukusuke
A long-established shop popular with locals, where you can enjoy traditional Ise Udon.
The rich sauce and extra-thick noodles are exquisite!
- Access: 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Ujiyamada Station
- Highlight: The chewy noodles and sweet-savory sauce are perfect together
2. Okadaya
A famous shop located right near Ise Jingu.
Known for its traditional rich sauce, it's also a hit with tourists.
- Access: 5-minute walk from Ise Jingu Naiku
- Highlight: Perfect after your O-Ise Mairi!
3. Mameya
A popular shop boasting a unique blend of sauce.
Adding toppings like green onions or tempura crumbs enhances the taste even more!
- Access: 15-minute walk from Kintetsu Isuzugawa Station
- Highlight: Enjoy customized Ise Udon
How to Enjoy Ise Udon Deliciously
1. Mix Well!
Since the sauce tends to settle at the bottom, the trick is to mix it thoroughly before eating.
Coat the noodles with the sauce and enjoy the chewy texture!
2. Customize with Your Favorite Toppings
- Green Onions: Add aroma and a crunchy texture
- Raw Egg: For a mellow flavor
- Tempura Crumbs: Adds a crispy accent
3. Delicious Even with Rice!
Pouring the rich Ise Udon sauce over rice is also exquisite!
Locally, this eating style is popular as "Ise Udon Donburi."
Convenient Information for Travelers
1. Access to Ise
- From Tokyo: About 2.5 hours by Shinkansen (via Nagoya)
- From Osaka: About 2 hours by Kintetsu Limited Express
- From Nagoya: About 1 hour by Kintetsu Limited Express
2. Price Range for Ise Udon
- General Price: 500 yen to 900 yen
- Additional Toppings: +100 yen to 300 yen
3. Recommended Time to Visit
- Lunch: 11:00 to 13:00 (Visit early as popular shops can be crowded)
- Dinner: Few shops are open at night, so it's best to eat during the day!
Summary and FAQs
Summary
- Ise Udon is a unique udon with chewy extra-thick noodles mixed with a sweet-savory sauce!
- It developed as a traditional dish for pilgrims to Ise Jingu since the Edo period.
- There are many famous shops around Ise Jingu, with Fukusuke, Okadaya, and Mameya being recommended!
- The key is to mix well before eating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I eat Ise Udon?
A: You can eat it at restaurants around Ise Jingu. Especially in the "Okage Yokocho," many famous shops are gathered.
Q: How is it different from regular udon?
A: Ise Udon features extra-thick & soft noodles and is eaten by mixing with a rich sauce instead of dashi.
Q: Can I take Ise Udon home as a souvenir?
A: Yes! Supermarkets and station kiosks sell Ise Udon packaged with sauce as souvenirs.
In Conclusion
Ise Udon is a local gourmet with a unique texture and taste different from regular udon.
When visiting Mie Prefecture, be sure to try the authentic Ise Udon!
