Introduction
To experience Japanese food culture in depth, it is essential to taste authentic flavors firsthand. Okasen, a famous restaurant in Kagawa Prefecture, is loved by many for its unique taste and high quality. Okasen is known as one of the best Sanuki Udon restaurants and is popular not only among locals but also among many tourists.
The charm of Okasen lies in its delicious handmade udon noodles. In particular, the firmness of the udon and the rich flavor of the broth are unforgettable once tasted. In addition, the restaurant offers a wide variety of tempura made with fresh ingredients and seasonal specials, so there is always something new to discover no matter how many times you visit.
When you visit Kagawa, be sure to experience authentic Sanuki udon at Okasen. You will be able to experience not only the deliciousness of udon, but also the depth of Japan’s food culture. The richly flavored udon at Okasen will surely become a wonderful memory of your trip.
Recommended Menu
When you visit Okasen, be sure to try the following recommended menu items.
Hiyahiten Oroshi
Hiyaten Oroshi, Okasen’s signature dish, is a gorgeous dish of cold kake-tsuyu with grated daikon and a large shrimp tempura and seasonal vegetable tempura. The refreshing taste makes this dish especially suitable for the hot season. The crunchy texture of the shrimp tempura contrasts perfectly with the chewy texture of the udon noodles.
Tenzaru
Tenzaru” is a sumptuous combination of udon colander and assorted tempura. The cold udon noodles are served with freshly fried shrimp tempura and vegetable tempura in a special dipping sauce. Another attraction of this dish is that you can eat the tempura while it is still crispy.
Curry Udon
Curry udon, based on a sweet broth, is characterized by its light yet rich flavor. The flavor of the curry goes well with the udon and can be enjoyed all the way through. In addition, the “Ebiten Curry Udon” is popular as a hearty dish topped with shrimp tempura in curry udon.
Deep Fried Mochi Udon
Aged Mochi Udon” is a hearty dish of udon topped with deep-fried rice cake. You can enjoy the glutinous texture and aroma of the freshly fried rice cake. It is a dish that warms the body especially during the cold season.
Bukkake Udon
Bukkake Udon is cold udon topped with a special sauce for a refreshing taste. Toppings include green onions, grated radish, ginger, and sesame seeds.
Side Menu
In addition to udon, Okasen also offers a wide variety of side dishes such as oden, inarizushi, and onigiri. In particular, the “Tempura Assortment” is a gorgeous dish that allows you to enjoy shrimp tempura and vegetable tempura all at once, which can also be enjoyed with sake.
Through these menus, you can fully enjoy authentic Sanuki udon at Okasen. When you visit Kagawa Prefecture, be sure to try the excellent udon at Okasen.
Experience and Enjoy
A visit to Okasen is more than just a meal, it is an experience. Here are some ways to get the most out of your visit to Okasen.
Observe udon noodle making
At Okasen, you can see the handmade udon noodle making process up close and personal. The sight of artisans expertly pounding udon noodles is a sight to behold, and you will learn how udon noodles are made. This tour is a great opportunity to learn the secret behind the delicious taste of Okasen’s udon.
Seasonal Specials
Okasen offers different special menus for each season. From the refreshing “Hiyaten Oroshi” and “Chilled Meat” in summer to the warm “Nabeyaki Udon” in winter, you can enjoy the delicacies of the season. One of the charms of this restaurant is that you can discover new tastes every time you visit.
Cuisine Using Local Ingredients
Okasen uses plenty of fresh local Kagawa ingredients. For example, the tempura made with Kagawa shrimp and vegetables is exquisite. You can fully enjoy the local flavors and experience Kagawa’s culinary culture in depth.
Homey Atmosphere
Inside Okasen is an at-home atmosphere where locals and visitors alike enjoy their meals together. The waitstaff is helpful and friendly, making you feel at ease even on your first visit. You can also experience the local culture by chatting with other customers as you dine.
Enjoy the side menu
In addition to udon, Okasen offers a wide variety of delicious side dishes. Oden, inari sushi, and rice balls are just a few of the snacks available to enjoy between bowls of udon. In particular, the “Tempura Assortment” is a luxurious dish that allows you to enjoy shrimp tempura and vegetable tempura all at once, and can also be enjoyed with sake.
Buying Souvenirs
Okasen also sells udon noodles and seasonings for souvenirs. You can bring home a taste of Kagawa with you, such as a set to recreate the taste of Okasen at home or a special broth. Not only for yourself, they also make great souvenirs for friends and family.
Through these experiences, you can enjoy your meal at Okasen even more. When you visit Kagawa Prefecture, we encourage you to try a special dining experience at Okasen.
Manners
When visiting Okasen, it is important to respect Japanese food culture and etiquette and to observe proper etiquette. Below are some basic manners for enjoying your meal at Okasen.
Manners upon entering the restaurant
- Give your order: Because Okasen is a popular restaurant, there may be a long line of customers waiting in line. Please keep your turn and wait quietly. Also, please be considerate so as not to disturb other customers.
- Greeting waitstaff: Greeting waitstaff by saying “Hello” or “Please” as you enter the restaurant will help build a good relationship.
Ordering Manners
- Decide on the menu before ordering: Look at the menu carefully and decide what you want to order before telling the waiter. It is important to convey your order smoothly and without hesitation.
- Timing of additional orders: If you would like to order additional food, ask the waiter when he/she is not busy.
Manners while eating
- Do not make noise: In Japan, it is generally considered bad manners to make noise while eating. Sipping udon is acceptable, but please enjoy your meal as quietly as possible.
- How to Use Dishes: When using chopsticks, be careful how you use them. Do not stick your chopsticks into your food or stick them into the top of the dishes.
- Sharing with others: If you are sharing a large dish, use chopsticks for sharing. Do not use your own chopsticks to share directly.
Manners when paying
- Carefully hand over cash: When paying, it is important to hand over cash carefully. It is preferable to hand over the bill or coins rather than leave them on the counter.
- Thank them: When you have finished paying, thank them for the food and be sure to say thank you. This will give a good impression to the waiter.
Manners when leaving the restaurant
- Ready your table: When you have finished eating, tidy up your table and put together the dishes you have used to make it easier for the waiter to clean up.
- QUIETLY LEAVING: When leaving the restaurant, be considerate of other customers and waitstaff, and try to leave quietly.
By observing these manners, you will be able to enjoy your meal at Okasumi more comfortably. Please enjoy the delicious Sanuki Udon noodles while respecting Japanese culture and etiquette.
Access
This section provides information on how to access Okasen. Located in Utazu-cho, Kagawa Prefecture, Oka Izumi is easily accessible for locals and tourists alike. It can be accessed by the following methods.
Access by train
The nearest station to Oka Izumi is Utazu Station on the JR Yosan Line. From Utazu Station, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to Oka Izumi. The route from the station is relatively easy to find, simply exit the station and go straight ahead.
Access by car
When using the Takamatsu Expressway, exit at the Sakaide Interchange and follow the open road for approximately 10 minutes to reach Oka Izumi. A parking lot is available, with space for 41 cars, making it convenient to visit by car.
Access by Bus
There are many bus routes in and around Utazu-cho. From the nearest bus stop, you can reach Okasen within a few minutes’ walk. If using the bus, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Access by bicycle
Visiting by bicycle is also comfortable. Utazu Town is easy to get around by bicycle, and there is space to park your bicycle in the vicinity of Oka Izumi.
Use of Map App
We recommend that you use a map application to check the best route before your visit. This will give you an idea of current traffic conditions and the shortest route.
By using these access routes, you can enjoy authentic Sanuki Udon noodles in Okasen. We encourage you to plan a meal at Okasen when visiting Kagawa Prefecture.
Hours of Operation and Closed
When visiting Okasen, it is important to check the hours of operation and the regular closing days. Below is the most up-to-date information.
Business Hours.
- Weekdays (Wednesday through Friday): 11:00 am to 7:00 pm (last order 7:00 pm)
- Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: 10:45 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (last order 7:00 p.m.)
Closed.
- Mondays and Tuesdays: Closed (open if Monday or Tuesday is a national holiday)
- Temporary Closure: Temporary closing twice a year, so it is recommended to check the official website in advance.
Other Information.
- Souvenir udon noodle sales: Available for purchase from 9:00 a.m. on business days. If you only wish to purchase souvenirs, you may enter the restaurant directly without standing in line.
- Seating: 32 chairs and 18 tatami mats
- Parking: 41 parking spaces available. There is also a second parking lot behind the restaurant.
With this information, you can smoothly enjoy delicious udon noodles at Okasen if you plan ahead before your visit. Please check the official website for the latest information.
Reservations and queue management
Due to its popularity, Okasen often has a long line, especially on weekends and during the tourist season. Here are some tips for making reservations and avoiding lines to ensure a smooth visit.
Reservations
Reservations are not generally accepted at Okasen. Therefore, when visiting, you must head directly to the store without making a reservation in advance. Since this is a popular restaurant, plan your visit with the expectation that you will have to wait in line.
Measures to avoid lines
- Visit Early: It is recommended to arrive before the opening time of 11:00 am. The restaurant is relatively empty right after opening, and you are likely to have a smooth entry. Arriving early is especially helpful when visiting on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. 2.
- Visiting on a weekday: Weekends and holidays are especially crowded, so if possible, visit on a weekday to reduce waiting time. Avoiding the tourist season and visiting on a weekday will make your dining experience even more pleasant. 3.
3.Visit in small groups: It is easier to be seated in a small group than in a large group. If you are visiting with friends or family, you can shorten the waiting time by splitting the group into smaller groups.
- Enjoying the Wait: When waiting in line, you can make the most of your waiting time by using your smartphone to look up tourist information and enjoy the surrounding scenery. You can also enjoy the waiting time by looking up tourist information about Kagawa Prefecture in advance.
5.Purchasing Souvenirs: Souvenir udon noodles can be purchased from 9:00 a.m. on business days. If you only want to buy souvenirs, you can enter the store directly without standing in line. This will allow you to avoid waiting time and complete your shopping smoothly.
Please take advantage of these measures to enjoy your meal at Okasen more comfortably. Be sure to plan your visit to taste the authentic Japanese Sanuki Udon noodles.
Reviews and Ratings
Okasen is a well-known restaurant that has received high praise from many who have visited. Below we have compiled information based on recent reviews and ratings.
Highly Rated Points
- Taste and Quality: The “Hiyaten Oroshi” in particular is highly praised. Many reviewers have praised the delicious combination of the large shrimp tempura and cold udon noodles.
- Texture: Udon noodles are highly praised for their firmness and slippery texture. The texture of the noodles, which are tightly packed, is especially appreciated.
- Service: The waitstaff are described as friendly and helpful, and the full-service delivery is appreciated. The fact that the restaurant is not self-service allows customers to enjoy their meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
Convenience
- Accessibility: Located within walking distance of Utazu Station, the hotel is also equipped with a parking lot. The location is highly regarded for its easy accessibility for tourists.
- Opening hours: Open from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays and from 10:45 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays, the restaurant is well received for its easy visiting hours.
Improvements.
- Wait Time: Due to the popularity of the restaurant, it has been noted that wait times are long, especially during lunch and on weekends. We recommend checking the crowds before visiting and visiting early in the day.
Actual Reviews
- Hiyaten Oroshi was excellent, the crispy shrimp tempura paired with the cold udon was a great combination.”
- “There was a wait, but the taste was worth it. The wait was worth it. The staff was friendly and helpful.
- We visited on a weekday and there was still a line. We visited on a weekday and there was still a line, but the taste was really great.
Please use these reviews as a guide to experiencing the delicious Sanuki Udon noodles at Okasen. It will be a wonderful opportunity to enjoy an authentic taste of Japan.
Summary
Okasen is a famous restaurant in Kagawa Prefecture that serves excellent Sanuki udon. The hiyaten oroshi is especially appreciated by many and is popular for its exquisite combination of shrimp tempura and cold noodles. The restaurant is full-service, and the friendly staff is also well received. Since there is often a long line, early visit is recommended. Experience authentic Sanuki udon at Okasen and enjoy its delicious taste and Japanese food culture to the fullest.
When visiting, it is important to check the hours of operation and regular holidays in advance and plan your visit accordingly. Okasen is open from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm on weekdays and from 10:45 am to 7:00 pm on weekends and holidays. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, but open on national holidays.
It is conveniently accessible, located within walking distance of JR Utatsu Station, and parking is available. When you visit Kagawa Prefecture, be sure to enjoy authentic Sanuki udon at Okazumi and create wonderful memories of your trip with the taste of authentic Sanuki udon.
