Hakata’s Soft Noodle Delight: Inaba Udon, Fukuoka’s Historic Gem
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While Fukuoka is best known for its ramen, the city also boasts a deep-rooted udon culture. Among the local favorites is Hakata Udon, a unique style distinct from the firmer Sanuki udon. This time, I visited the iconic long-standing restaurant, Inaba Udon, to explore the flavors that define Fukuoka’s udon culture. Let me introduce you to the charm of Fukuoka’s beloved udon through this legendary eatery.
What Makes Hakata Udon Special?
Hakata udon is known for its soft, tender noodles, a stark contrast to the firm, chewy texture of Sanuki udon. The soft, mochi-like texture allows the noodles to blend seamlessly with the soup, creating a harmonious flavor experience. While its softness might surprise first-time visitors, it’s deeply loved as the quintessential “taste of Hakata” by locals.
Another hallmark of Hakata udon is its light, delicate broth, made from kombu and iriko (dried sardines). The subtle combination of soy sauce and mirin provides a comforting flavor. Popular toppings include gobo tempura (fried burdock root), maruten (fish cake), and niku-gobo (beef and burdock).
What is Inaba Udon?
Inaba Udon is a historic udon shop that first opened in 1951 in the Inaba district of Tenjin, Fukuoka. Its unwavering dedication to natural ingredients has made it a beloved establishment among locals.
Commitment to Natural Ingredients
At Inaba Udon, the following carefully selected ingredients are used. You can feel their dedication to quality.
- Natural kombu from Rausu, Hokkaido
- Dried sardines (iriko) from Goto and Shimabara, Nagasaki
- Soy sauce from “Genjirozaemon” in Hita, Oita
- Salt from Akoh, Hyogo
The aroma and flavor of the broth crafted from these ingredients are both simple and profound. Especially during the colder seasons, it deeply warms the soul.
Trying the Most Popular “Niku Gobo Tempura Udon”
This time, I ordered the Niku Gobo Tempura Udon (the most popular dish!). True to Hakata’s udon culture, the dish was served shortly after ordering, reflecting the fast-paced lifestyle of Hakata merchants.
Impressions of the Udon
- Noodles: Soft and soaked in broth, warm and comforting, perfect for a chilled body.
- Broth: The flavors of kombu and dried sardines (iriko) spread gently, with a characteristic mild sweetness.
- Toppings: The crispy burdock tempura and the sweet-savory simmered meat pair perfectly with the broth.
As the cold season deepens, the soft noodles and flavorful broth truly warmed me to the core. It’s the perfect bowl to soothe a chilled body after sightseeing or shopping in Fukuoka.
| Restaurant Name | Inaba Udon (因幡うどん) Watanabe-dori Branch |
| Access | 5-minute walk from Watanabe-dori Station (Fukuoka Subway Nanakuma Line) 5-minute walk from Yakuin Station (Nishitetsu Tenjin-Omuta Line) |
| Opening Hours | Weekdays 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM Weekends & Public Holidays 11:00 AM – 7:30 PM |
| TEL | 092-711-0708 |
| Closed | Open all year |
| Dining Options | Eat-In → Yes Takeout → No Delivery → No |
Here are some other menu choices you might enjoy.
Conclusion
Inaba Udon is the perfect place to experience Hakata’s unique udon culture. Enjoy the signature soft noodles, light dashi broth, and classic toppings like burdock tempura and simmered beef, all harmonizing to create a delightful taste. Make “Inaba Udon” part of your Fukuoka travel memories and immerse yourself in the charm of Hakata’s udon tradition!
