What do you think about summer in Japan? Most of those who’ve visited Japan during summer know how hot and humid it is!
Other than shaved ice, one of the popular summer eating traditions is “nagashi somen.”
What is Nagashi Somen?
Nagashi Somen is one of the Japanese summer meals wherein people pick noodles with their chopsticks that are flowing down in cold water usually in a bamboo slide.
It is said that this dish originated in Takachiko, Miyazaki prefecture, in the year 1955. Basically fine white noodles (somen) are boiled first and to avoid eating them hot, the noodles are slid down with cold water. You have to pick the noodles quickly and your chopstick skills will definitely be tested!
(なまらうまい@Tabelog)
Places to try Nagashi Somen
Here are some of the places where you can try this unique dish!
Kyoto’s Hirobun (ひろ文) is not only popular among Japanese but also among international travelers. Sometimes you have to wait in line for up to three hours!
Dates: Till late September
Time: 11:00 – 16:00 (reception till 13:00)
Price: 1,300 yen (cash only)
*If it rains at 10:00 am on the day, there will be no Nagashi Somen
*No reservation required
If you want to taste Nagashi Somen in the Kanto region, visit Chosaikan (長生館 流しそうめん処) in Nagatoro, Saitama.
Dates: July 1 – September 23 daily; From September 24 – October 14 only on weekends and holidays
Time: 11:00 onwards (reception from 10:30-15:00)
Price: 1,200 yen for elementary school students / 600 yen for 3 to 6 years old / 2 years old free of charge
*No reservation required
In Osaka, you can try this dish at Nishiya (西屋).
This is an izakaya (Japanese-style pub) where you can try Nagashi Somen. Because it is set at the entrance of the shop, you will be able to gaze at people passing by so its a great way to spend a lovely summer afternoon.
Tabelog: https://tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270101/27045728/
In Kamakura, you can enjoy Nagashi Somen at Chayakado (茶屋かど).
Dates: From April to October
Hours: 10:00 – 17:00 (last order 16:30)
*Reservation is possible from 10 people or more
Evolution of Nagashi Somen
These days, you can even enjoy Nagashi Somen at home. Check out this video and find out about a Nagashi Somen machine! Would you want one?
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