Created in Osaka, Nissin Cup Noodles are now loved all over the world. CupNoodles Museum Osaka Ikeda is where you can learn about the history and manufacturing process of Cup Noodles. The museum is a popular attraction in the city of Ikeda where Nissin was founded.<br> Did you know that Ikeda actually has another legendary noodle landmark? It is Azuma, Osaka’s oldest udon noodle restaurant. Still in business since 1864 in the late Edo period, Azuma has been beloved by many customers for 160 years. It’s only a ten-minute walk from Hankyu Ikeda Station.

Azuma’s shop exterior retains elements of the Edo era (1603-1868). Since Azuma’s founding in 1864, it saw many turbulent incidents of the late Edo period, such as the Ikedaya Incident, Kinmon Incident, and Shimonoseki Bombardment. Azuma’s history is so long that it cannot be told completely.

Among Azuma’s wide variety of dishes, Sasame Udon is a must-try. It was originally named Azuma Udon, but it was renamed after Matsuko Tanizaki, wife of novelist Junichiro Tanizaki, visited Azuma and had this bowl of udon. The current name comes from Tanizaki’s famous novel, Sasame Yuki (The Makioka Sisters). Today, this dish is Azuma’s main specialty.

Sasame Udon has thin udon noodles in thick, starchy ankake-dashi broth. The elegant flavor comes from a nice blend of wild parsley, salted kelp, and ground sesame seeds. The grated ginger also warms your body, making it even more delicious during the cold months.

This photo clearly shows how the udon noodles and dashi broth stick together. Despite their thinness, the noodles retain a firm texture, making the dish chewy and delicious. The deep-fried tofu soaked in the dashi broth is also flavorful. In the warmer months, cold Sasame Kitsune Udon noodles topped with thinly sliced fried tofu is also available.

While you’re here, you might as well also order kayaku rice, a mixed rice dish popular as a side with the udon noodles. It is lightly-seasoned rice that goes perfectly with the Sasame Udon’s thick ankake-dashi broth. If you want to try it, go early—it might sell out soon after the restaurant opens.

Traditional culinary flavors passed down from the end of the Edo period. When visiting Ikeda, be sure to drop by Azuma, Osaka’s oldest udon noodle shop. Parking available for three cars.

Azuma

Address: Nishi-honmachi 6-17, Ikeda, Osaka

Google maps

Hours: 10:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Closed: Tuesdays (sometimes closed on other days)
Phone: (+81) 72-751-3644

LOCATION

By train: Take the Hankyu Takarazuka Line to Ikeda Station, then walk for 10 minutes.
By car: Approximately 15 minutes from Toyonaka IC

Source: mecicolle (https://mecicolle.gnavi.co.jp/report/detail/13690/)

*Information presented here is current as of 2019. Please check the websites of the individual shops and facilities for up-to-date information on business hours.