“Let’s Explore the Allure of Fukuoka’s Udon! Introduction to Its History, Characteristics, and Recommended Popular Shops

Is Fukuoka the Birthplace of Udon?

Fukuoka is considered the birthplace of udon. The basis for this claim lies in the monument titled ‘Birthplace of Udon and Soba Noodles’ at Shouten Temple in Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City. According to this monument, the monk Saint Kukai (Enni) introduced noodle-making techniques to Japan. He stayed in Hakata upon returning from Song China in the 13th century, where he is said to have imparted culinary knowledge including noodles and steamed buns¹. However, the ‘udon’ at that time was different from the current version and was more akin to wontons. The udon we recognize today reportedly took its current form toward the end of the Kamakura period and had spread nationwide by the Muromachi period.

What are the Characteristics of Fukuoka Udon?

Fukuoka udon possesses distinctive features in its noodles and broth. Here’s an explanation:

• The noodles are made using a soft and fluffy texture with weak elasticity. This is attributed to the preference of merchants who required quickly consumable, soft noodles, boiled to be easily eaten². Additionally, the udon flour in Kyushu is said to have less protein compared to others, making it challenging to achieve a firm texture³. Some shops offer noodles kneaded with mugwort.
• The broth is clear, made using dried sardines, mackerel, bonito flakes, flying fish (Tobiuo), kombu, and finished with light soy sauce⁴. Unique toppings include burdock tempura, round tempura, and a sweet-savory flavored meat using Kyushu soy sauce (the so-called ‘meat udon’ topping)⁴. Some establishments use yuzu pepper as a condiment⁵.
• Alongside udon, commonly served accompaniments include white onigiri (rice balls) or inari sushi, but ‘kashiwameshi’ (a mixed rice dish containing chicken, burdock, carrots, etc.) or ‘kashiwa onigiri’ (rice balls made from kashiwameshi) are often enjoyed⁶.

Where Are the Popular Udon Shops in Fukuoka City?

Fukuoka City hosts numerous udon eateries. Here are a few recommended popular shops based on Tabelog rankings and reviews:

• Karo no Uron: Fukuoka’s oldest udon shop located in Hakata Ward, established in 1882 (Meiji 15). They serve thin and soft noodles with a refreshing broth. Their side menu includes burdock tempura and kashiwa onigiri⁷.
• Kiya: A long-established shop since 1926 (Showa 1) in Gofukumachi. They serve thick and chewy noodles with a rich and flavorful broth. Popular menu items include shrimp tempura and meat udon⁸.
• Makino Udon: A chain with several outlets across Fukuoka City. They offer thin, soft noodles with a light soy sauce-based broth. Toppings are customizable to suit individual preferences⁹.

That sums up the blog article about Fukuoka’s udon. How was it? Fukuoka’s udon holds abundant allure, encompassing history, distinctive features, and recommended popular shops. We highly recommend experiencing Fukuoka’s udon at least once.”