🍜 Established 124 years ago! A traditional soba and udon noodle shop that has been with the station all along ~

Whenever I’m at Sakuragicho Station and don’t know what to eat, I always end up at Kawamuraya. At first, it was just because it seemed cool to eat outside, but last year, in 2023, Japanese news reported that they had no successors and would be closing down, which drove many people to have their last bowl.

However, one of the daughters of the seventh-generation heir was willing to take over, and this century-old shop was resurrected!

Founded in 1900, it has always been a standing noodle shop. Currently, there is a row of small low tables inside, but there are also a few tables outside where you can stand and eat.

The ordering method uses a common ticket vending machine found in Japanese noodle shops, which also has English translations of the menu items. The main differences are the toppings, and there are pictures to look at. It’s recommended to decide outside before going in to operate the machine. After getting your ticket and finding your change, give the ticket to the counter and specify whether you want soba or udon, then just wait for your noodles to cook.

Most items on the menu are under 500 yen, and the signature dish is chicken noodles, but on this day, I chose wild vegetable noodles, which I loved as it was similar to ferns 🤗 The broth is a traditional bonito soy sauce base, which has a simple and rustic flavor that doesn’t get tiresome, especially nice to enjoy hot soup outdoors in winter!

It’s important to note that there are two entrances and both have ticket machines. However, if you are in a popular queue at peak times, be sure to line up at the door near the JR ticket gate!