Morioka City, the prefectural capital of Iwate Prefecture, has its own unique noodle culture.

Morioka Jajamen is as popular as Wankosoba and Morioka Reimen, two of Morioka's three great noodles. It looks similar to the Chinese dish Jajamen, but the ingredients used and the way it's eaten are quite different.

This time, we will introduce the characteristics of Morioka Jajamen, a uniquely Japanese flavor.

What is Morioka Jajamen?

This noodle dish consists of chewy, flat noodles similar to udon, topped with rich meat and miso, green onions, cucumbers, and more.

The difference between this and Chinese Jajiangmyeon is that sesame seeds are added to the meat and miso to give it a rich flavor. It is topped with cucumber, green onion, grated ginger, pickled ginger, etc., and the refreshing flavors go perfectly with the richness of the miso.

It is no exaggeration to say that one of the dish's greatest features is the after-meal egg soup called "chitan tang."

The way of ordering is also quite unique. You add an egg to the noodles and meat miso that are still left, mix well, and then hand it over to the staff. They will then bring it to you topped with hot boiled water and spring onions. This is the classic and beloved final dish of Morioka Jajamen.

The origin and history of Morioka Jajamen

The originator of Morioka Jajamen is a restaurant called "Pairon" located in the city.

The dish originated when the first owner of the restaurant had eaten "fried sauce noodles" in Manchuria before the war, and after returning to Japan, he adapted the flavor to suit the people of Morioka.

The shop originally started as a food stall, but as a result of continuing to make its dishes with great care, the taste has evolved into something unique, and now more and more customers from inside and outside the prefecture are visiting in search of that taste.

How to make Morioka Jajamen

Morioka Jajamen is characterized by its flat noodles similar to Kishimen noodles. The noodles are boiled in plenty of water and then served directly on a plate.

The key to the flavor is the meat miso, which is made by frying finely chopped onions and minced meat with ginger and garlic to bring out the aroma, and then adding miso, sake, soy sauce, sugar, ground sesame seeds, water, etc. and simmering.

As it simmers, the miso will thicken and it's done. All you have to do is put the noodles and meat miso on a plate, top with cucumber and spring onion, and it's done. Recently, instant noodles that can be easily made at home have also become popular.

How to eat Morioka Jajamen deliciously

Morioka Jajamen can be enjoyed in a variety of original ways, so much so that it is said that there are ten different ways for every ten people.

If it's your first time, try mixing the noodles and meat miso well and taking a bite as is. You'll be able to directly taste the restaurant's unique meat miso. After that, add your favorite seasonings, such as vinegar, chili oil, or garlic, to create the flavor you like.

We recommend enjoying "Chi Tan Tan" after your meal.

In most restaurants, the recipe and ordering instructions are written on the front page, so even first-time customers can order with confidence. It is popular to add salt and pepper, chili oil, vinegar, or miso to taste. The soft, fluffy noodles and light egg soup bring out the richness and flavor of the miso. It has a mild flavor and is so delicious that you'll find yourself finishing it all in no time, even after a meal.

It is said that the more you eat Morioka Jajamen the more you will fall in love with it. It is a deep dish that can be enjoyed even more by trying it to find the flavor that suits your taste.

Recommended sightseeing spots in Morioka City

Morioka City, located almost in the center of Iwate Prefecture, has streets that retain the atmosphere of an old castle town and Western-style brick buildings, and there are many spots that can be explored on foot.

This time, we will introduce a carefully selected list of recommended tourist spots.

Morioka Castle Park (Iwate Park) is bustling all year round

Morioka Castle Ruins Park, which was selected as one of the "100 Best Historical Parks in Japan," is a 15-minute walk from Morioka Station.

In spring, the Morioka Cherry Blossom Festival is held, and at night you can take a break looking at the cherry blossoms lit up by orange lanterns. Another attraction is the beautiful flowers that decorate the area around Tsurugaike Pond in the park, such as wisteria flowers in the season of fresh greenery and hydrangeas in early summer.

It is a lively spot throughout the year, with autumn leaves in the fall and the Morioka Snow Light Festival in the winter.

"Ishiwari Sakura" designated as a national natural monument

Located within the Morioka District Court, close to Morioka Castle Ruins Park, is the Edo Higan Cherry Tree, a designated national natural monument.

Locally, it is also known as the "stone-splitting cherry tree" and is an amazing tree that is over 360 years old. The cherry tree grows as if splitting a huge granite rock, creating a scene that truly makes you feel the power of nature. The cherry blossoms are in full bloom from mid- to late April.

The most beautiful man-made lake in Japan, "Iwakura Lake"

Gandou Lake, located in the northeastern part of Morioka City, is a dam lake that is said to be the most beautiful man-made lake in Japan.

The lake is surrounded by forests of white birch and red pine, and the clear lakeside reflects the water like a mirror, creating a beautiful and mysterious atmosphere. From spring to early summer, you can see Asian skunk cabbage, lily of the valley, and rhododendrons, and from mid-October you can enjoy the autumn leaves.

Smelt fishing is also popular in the winter, and there are campsites, rest houses, and walking trails nearby. It is a natural park that is recommended for sightseeing and walks and is a pleasant place to spend time.

Access to Morioka City

Morioka City, located almost in the center of Iwate Prefecture, is easily accessible by plane or bullet train.

It takes about 2 hours by Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Morioka Station. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to get to Hanamaki Airport from Komaki Airport in Nagoya and Itami Airport in Osaka. From there, it takes about 45 minutes by bus to get to Morioka city.

You can also access the area via the Tohoku Expressway or express buses, so try to find the best way to get there.

Location of Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture

summary

This time we introduced Morioka City's local gourmet dish, "Morioka Jajamen."

The taste is loved by locals and is a rare dish that can only be found in Morioka. Another appeal is that it is reasonably priced, so if you visit Morioka, be sure to give it a try.

\ We are looking for Tempo Star affiliates! /