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” (流しそうめん).
What is Nagashi Somen?
Nagashi Somen is one of the Japanese summer meals wherein people use their chopsticks to quickly pick up fine white noodles (somen) that are flowing down in cold water, usually in a bamboo slide.
It is said that this dish originated in Takachiko, Miyazaki prefecture, in 1955. The fine white noodles 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, but be prepared for queues and specific requirements!
Kyoto’s Hirobun (ひろ文) is extremely popular among Japanese and international travelers and offers a unique riverbed (kawadoko) setting. Sometimes you have to wait in line for up to three hours!
Dates: May to late September
Time: 11:00 – 12:00 (Reception closes early due to high demand—arrive well before 11:00).
Price: 2,000 yen (cash only)
Note: The wait can easily exceed two to three hours on weekends. If it rains at 10:00 am on the day, the Nagashi Somen service will be canceled.
Official Website
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: Typically offered from April to October.
Time: 10:00 – 16:30 (Last order).
Price: 1,000 yen for elementary school students / 2,000 yen for Adults
*Free for children under 2 years old
Official Website
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
Time: 10:00 – 16:30
Official Website
Evolution of Nagashi Somen
These days, you can even enjoy Nagashi Somen at home with affordable tabletop machines, perfect for parties. This tradition is a great way to cool down and enjoy a fun, communal meal during the humid Japanese summer!
Grab the Noodles!
Nagashi Somen is an iconic summer pastime that embodies the spirit of cooling off and friendly competition. If you are visiting Kyoto, the effort to brave the queues for the experience at Hirobun is highly recommended for the beautiful setting alone.
