Mie’s Famous Dish “Ise Udon” — Traditional Udon Known for Extra-Thick, Chewy Noodles!
If you visit Mie Prefecture, be sure to try the local specialty Ise udon.
Unlike typical udon, it features extra-thick, soft noodles tossed in a rich, dark sauce.
This article explains the history of Ise udon, what makes it delicious, and recommended places to try it!
What is Ise Udon? — Characterized by Soft, Extra-Thick Noodles and a Rich Sauce
1. Features of Ise Udon
The most notable feature of Ise udon is the extra-thick, soft noodles.
Compared to regular udon, they are boiled for a much longer time, giving them a soft, chewy texture.
It’s eaten in a unique style by tossing the noodles with a soy-based, sweet-and-savory dark sauce.
The combination of the noodles’ chewy texture and the rich sauce is superb!
2. How is it different from regular udon?
Compared with typical udon, Ise udon is extra-thick and soft.
You eat it by pouring a small amount of the rich, soy-based dark sauce and mixing the noodles with the sauce.
Origins of Ise Udon
Ise udon is believed to have begun in the Edo period, served to visitors to Ise Jingu (Ise Grand Shrine).
Its roots come from serving pre-boiled udon so that worshippers could eat quickly.
Connection with Ise Jingu
Ise Jingu is one of Japan’s oldest and most famous shrines, known for the Ise pilgrimage.
To accommodate pilgrims from all over the country, Ise udon developed as an easy-to-eat dish.
Even today, many long-established Ise udon shops line the area around Ise Jingu, and they are beloved by tourists.
Recommended Ise Udon Shops — Where to Try It in the Local Area
1. Fukusuke
A long-established shop popular with locals, where you can enjoy traditional, old-fashioned Ise udon.
The rich sauce and extra-thick noodles are outstanding!
- Access: From Kintetsu Ujiyamada Station, about 20 minutes by bus; get off at “Jingu Kaikan-mae” and a 2–3 minute walk (located inside Okage Yokocho)
- Highlights: Perfect balance of chewy noodles and sweet-savory sauce
2. Okadaya
A famous shop located very close to Ise Jingu.
Known for its traditional, rich sauce, it’s very popular with tourists.
- Access: About a 5-minute walk from Ise Jingu’s Inner Shrine (Naiku)
- Highlights: Ideal after visiting the shrine
3. Mameya
A popular shop proud of its unique blended sauce.
Adding toppings like green onions or tenkasu (tempura crumbs) makes it even more delicious!
- Access: About a 4–5 minute walk from Kintetsu Ise-shi Station North Exit
- Highlights: Customizable Ise udon you can tailor to your taste
How to Enjoy Ise Udon
1. Mix well!
Because the sauce tends to settle at the bottom, the key is to mix thoroughly before eating.
Toss the sauce so it coats the noodles and enjoy the chewy texture!
2. Customize with your favorite toppings
- Green onions: Add aroma and a crisp texture
- Raw egg: Makes the flavor more mellow
- Tenkasu (tempura crumbs): Adds a crunchy accent
3. Delicious with rice, too!
Pouring the rich sauce from Ise udon over rice is another delight!
Locally, a “donburi-style” way of enjoying Ise udon with rice is also popular.
Practical Information for Travelers
1. Getting 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. Typical price range for Ise udon
- Typical price: ¥500–¥900
- Extra toppings: +¥100–¥300
3. Recommended times to go
- Lunch: 11:00–13:00 (popular shops get crowded, so arrive early)
- Dinner: Few shops are open late, so lunchtime is best
Summary and FAQ
Summary
- Ise udon is a unique local udon featuring chewy, extra-thick noodles tossed in a sweet-and-savory sauce.
- It developed as a traditional dish served to pilgrims to Ise Jingu since the Edo period.
- There are many famous shops around Ise Jingu; Fukusuke, Okadaya, and Mameya are recommended.
- Mix the noodles well before eating — that’s the key.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I eat Ise udon?
A: You can find it at restaurants around Ise Jingu. Many well-known shops are gathered in Okage Yokocho.
Q: How is it different from regular udon?
A: Ise udon has extra-thick, soft noodles and is eaten with a rich sauce rather than a light broth.
Q: Can I buy Ise udon as a souvenir?
A: Yes! Souvenir Ise udon sets with sauce are sold at supermarkets and station shops.
Finally
Ise udon is a local specialty prized for its distinctive texture and flavor that differ from ordinary udon.
When you visit Mie Prefecture, be sure to try authentic Ise udon!
