Must-Try Udon in Kagawa / Episode 2: Yokokura Udon — The Oldest Udon Restaurant in Kagawa

Episode 2: Yokokura Udon — The Oldest Udon Shop in Kagawa

Hi, I’m TAKA.

Kagawa is home to over 500 udon restaurants,
but today I want to introduce something truly special.

The oldest udon restaurant in the entire prefecture.

Welcome to Yokokura Udon.

A 120-Year Legacy

Located in Kinashi, Takamatsu,
Yokokura Udon has been serving noodles for over 120 years —
since before World War II.

This isn’t just a restaurant.

It’s a living piece of Kagawa’s food culture.

Surrounded by Bonsai Culture

Kinashi is known as one of Japan’s most important
bonsai production areas

As you approach the shop,
you’ll pass fields filled with carefully cultivated pine bonsai.

This alone already feels like a uniquely Japanese experience.

And right next to these fields,
you’ll find Yokokura Udon quietly standing.

More Than a Restaurant — A Cultural Space

At first glance, the building looks like a traditional old Japanese house.

But once you step inside, something unexpected happens.

It feels like an art gallery.

Local artists occasionally exhibit their work here,
creating a space where tradition and creativity coexist.

Even the layout is unique:

The dining area and kitchen are in separate buildings

You actually walk a few meters between them —
like visiting a countryside home in Japan.

The Dish Everyone Orders

Of course, their classic udon is excellent.

But there’s one dish you’ll notice again and again:

Grilled Chicken Oil Udon (Torichā Negi Aburi Abura Udon)

It’s not something you’ll find anywhere else.

And almost every customer orders it without hesitation.

The Moment You See It, You Know

When I first saw it, I immediately knew:

“This is going to be good.”

Charred chicken thigh,
rich scallion oil,
perfectly cooked udon noodles.

Add coarse black pepper and their special soy sauce —

and the flavor explodes.

The juicy umami of the chicken
combined with the smooth, springy noodles

creates a deeply satisfying experience in every bite.

From the Brink of Closure to a Comeback Story

The current owner is the 5th generation.

When he took over,
the shop was struggling.

Customers were decreasing,
and the future looked uncertain.

Closing down was a real possibility.

So he made a bold move:

He embraced social media and innovation.

By introducing unique menu items and sharing the story of the shop,
he brought people back.

Today, Yokokura Udon is once again a thriving destination.

Tradition Meets Innovation

What makes this place special is not just its history.

It’s the balance between 120 years of tradition
and modern creativity

Few places in Japan offer both in such an authentic way.

A Place You Won’t Forget

If you’re looking for more than just a meal —

If you want a story,
a place,
and a moment that stays with you —

Yokokura Udon is worth the trip.

Experience It Like a Local

Timing, ordering, and even how you eat
can completely change your experience.

I’ll guide you at the perfect time to avoid the crowds
and enjoy udon at its freshest — just like a local.