[Iwate specialty, Wankosoba] A must-try! What is the all-you-can-eat traditional soba?

What is Wanko Soba?

Wanko Soba is a representative traditional dish of Iwate Prefecture, known for its style of continuously eating soba served in small bowls one after another.

A server keeps adding soba to the bowl with encouraging shouts like "Hai, dondon!" ("Yes, keep going!") until the eater closes the lid, marking the end of this unique dining culture.

Originally born from the spirit of hospitality, it has now become an event that tourists can experience when visiting.

With the challenge element of "How many bowls can I eat?", it is an unmissable experiential gourmet adventure in Iwate tourism!

Features of Wanko Soba

1. Continuous Eating of Bite-Sized Soba

Unlike regular soba, wanko soba is characterized by being served in small bowls in bite-sized portions.

Each time you eat, the server adds new soba to your bowl.

Although the amount per bowl is small compared to regular soba, before you know it, you might end up eating dozens of bowls, which is the charm of wanko soba.

When you feel, "I can't eat anymore!", closing the lid marks the end.

2. Aim for 100 Bowls! Challenge the Record

It's common to enjoy wanko soba while counting the number of bowls eaten.

General benchmarks are as follows:

• Beginner: 30-50 bowls
• Intermediate: 60-80 bowls
• Advanced: 100 bowls and above!

In some places, achieving 100 bowls may earn you a commemorative certificate or award, making it a memorable experience for tourists.

3. Enjoy the Entertainment with Shouts

The greatest attraction of wanko soba is the server's lively shouts.

With shouts like "Hai, dondon!" and "You can still go!", soba is added rhythmically, allowing you to enjoy it more like a sport or game than a meal.

Competing with family or friends will definitely make it more exciting!

How to Enjoy Wanko Soba

1. Consider Your Eating Pace

If you start eating at a high pace, you'll quickly feel full.

Maintaining a steady rhythm and increasing your chewing will allow you to eat more.

2. Utilize Condiments

Wanko soba is served with condiments to enjoy a change of taste.

Typical condiments include:

• Green Onions: Refreshing flavor
• Wasabi: Adds a spicy kick
• Tororo (Grated Yam): Smooth texture makes it easier to eat
• Nori (Seaweed): Enjoyable roasted flavor

Skillfully using condiments allows you to enjoy for a longer time without getting bored of the taste.

3. Challenge the Record!

Wanko soba is not just about eating; there's a challenge element of "how many bowls can you eat".

Especially in tourist-friendly restaurants, you might receive a commemorative certificate or prize based on the number of bowls eaten, so it's worth trying!

Recommended Wanko Soba Restaurants in Iwate

1. Azumaya (Morioka City)

Known as the birthplace of wanko soba, you can enjoy wanko soba in a traditional style with the atmosphere of a long-established store.

• Price: 3,800 yen (tax included)
• Access: 15-minute walk from JR Morioka Station

2. Hatsukoma (Morioka City)

Popular among locals, this store is enjoyable for wanko soba beginners to advanced eaters.

• Price: 3,500 yen (tax included)
• Access: 10-minute walk from JR Morioka Station

3. Yabuya (Hanamaki City)

A long-established soba shop loved by Kenji Miyazawa, where you can enjoy wanko soba alongside local culture.

• Price: 3,600 yen (tax included)
• Access: 5-minute walk from JR Hanamaki Station

Convenient Information for Travelers

Access Information

Access by Train or Bus

• About 2 hours and 30 minutes from Tokyo Station to Morioka Station by Shinkansen
• From JR Morioka Station, walk or take a taxi to each restaurant

Access by Car

• About 2 hours by car from Sendai
• There are wanko soba restaurants in Morioka City with parking

Price Range

• Wanko Soba All-You-Can-Eat: Approximately 3,000 to 4,000 yen

Wi-Fi Information

• Free Wi-Fi available at cafes and tourist information centers around Morioka Station
• Some wanko soba restaurants may offer Wi-Fi

Language Support

• English and Chinese tourist pamphlets available at Morioka Station
• Some restaurants offer English menus

Conclusion and Frequently Asked Questions

Wanko soba is a unique cultural dining experience that you can only have in Iwate.

Adding to your travel memories, trying the challenge of "how many bowls can I eat?" is one way to enjoy it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a reservation for wanko soba?

A: Popular restaurants can get crowded, so advance reservations are recommended. Reservations are essential, especially on weekends and holidays.

Q: How many bowls equal one serving of regular soba?

A: It is said that about 15 bowls equal one serving of regular soba.

Q: Can beginners enjoy wanko soba?

A: Yes! You can eat at your own pace, so you can enjoy it even with a small number of bowls.

When visiting Iwate, be sure to challenge wanko soba and experience Japan's traditional dining culture!