Ise Udon in Ise City

Ise udon is a signature regional dish of Ise City in Mie Prefecture. Its defining features are plump, very thick noodles boiled until soft, and a dark, rich sauce based on tamari soy. There is little broth, so the noodles are tossed in the sauce rather than served in soup. Despite the dark appearance, the taste is mellow and gentle. This is a bowl that has long comforted travelers visiting the Ise shrines.

Highlights

Throughout central Ise you will find specialty shops and eateries serving Ise udon. The soft noodles need almost no chewing and slip smoothly down, a uniquely pleasing texture. Topped with chopped green onion and a sprinkle of chili, or with an egg cracked over them for extra richness, they shine. Each shop blends its sauce differently, so comparing them is part of the fun.

Enjoying the Seasons

A warm bowl heats you from within during the cold months. In summer, some shops offer a chilled version, so it can be enjoyed all year. Pairing a bowl with a stroll through Okage Yokocho after visiting the shrine makes for a richer travel memory.

Access and Basic Information

Ise City centers on Iseshi and Ujiyamada stations on the Kintetsu and JR lines, with good access to Ise Jingu. Ise udon shops line Oharaimachi and Okage Yokocho in front of the Inner Shrine, making them easy to visit alongside your worship.

A Quick Tip

The soft noodles change texture as they cool, so toss them well in the sauce and eat soon after they are served. Half cooked take home noodles are also a popular souvenir.