Nagasaki Champon

Walking through Nagasaki Chinatown, you catch the sound of a clattering wok and the aroma of a cloudy white broth. Nagasaki champon is a satisfying one-bowl noodle dish built on a mellow soup of pork and chicken bones, topped with cabbage, pork, fish cake, squid, shrimp and other colorful ingredients. Born as an affordable meal to fill the stomachs of hard-working people, it is now cherished as one of the flavors that best represents the city.

Highlights

The greatest appeal is the harmony between the thick, springy noodles and the broth infused with the flavor of every topping. The ingredients are stir-fried first, then the soup is poured in and the noodles are simmered right in it, so the sweetness of the vegetables and the stock of the seafood blend into one. Each shop has its own soup richness and mix of toppings, making it fun to compare.

Enjoying the Seasons

In the cold months a steaming bowl warms you from the core. In summer you might choose a shop with a lighter touch, or order it alongside sara udon. Some local kitchens add extra seasonal vegetables, so you can taste the moment of the year in every bowl.

Access and Basic Information

Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown sits just a few minutes by streetcar from JR Nagasaki Station, and the surrounding streets are lined with long-established Chinese restaurants. Many places serve from midday into the evening, making it easy to drop in between sightseeing.

A Quick Tip

The piping-hot broth stays warm to the last drop, so take your time and mind the heat. Ask for small serving plates and you can happily share it together with a plate of sara udon.