When you think of fried noodles in Okayama, you think of "Hiruzen Yakisoba." As the name suggests, it is a local B-class gourmet dish from the Hiruzen region in the northern part of Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture.

It became known nationwide after the Hiruzen Yakisoba Koitonkai won the B-1 Grand Prix in 2011.

Let's explore the characteristics and history of Hiruzen Yakisoba.

Features of Hiruzen Yakisoba

Hiruzen Yakisoba is defined as being made with three ingredients: chicken chicken meat, highland cabbage, and a secret special sauce.

The more you chew the chicken meat, the tastier it becomes. The Hiruzen Plateau is a major producer of cabbage. Cabbage from the Hiruzen Plateau is characterized by its freshness and sweetness that makes it delicious even when eaten raw. The rich, sweet and spicy miso sauce is also appetizing. The use of miso sauce is a big difference between this dish and regular yakisoba.

It's also delicious with chili pepper added for a spicy kick.

The History of Hiruzen Yakisoba

In the Hiruzen region, from around the 1950s onwards, each household would make their own yakisoba (fried noodles) and Genghis Khan (grilled barbecue), using their own original sauce mixtures.

At that time, the Hiruzen Yakisoba, made by a famously stubborn grandmother at Masuya Shokudo, which was founded in the 1950s, became popular. The dish, which combines chicken fillet, cabbage, and yakisoba in a miso sauce made with a variety of ingredients and seasonings such as onions, garlic, and apples, became a dish beloved by locals.

It is also said that the origins of Hiruzen Yakisoba can be traced back to the "Kashiwayaki" that was served at Masuya Shokudo. Kashiwayaki is chicken, cabbage, and other vegetables stir-fried in miso sauce. The sweet moisture that comes out of the cabbage when it is grilled and the miso sauce go perfectly with the chicken. It is said that Hiruzen Yakisoba was born when noodles were added to this dish. Unfortunately, Masuya Shokudo is currently closed.

By the way, the name "Hiruzen Yakisoba" was given to this dish fairly recently. At the time, it was called "Hiruzen Yakisoba" (fried noodles in a broth), but in 2008, the "Hiruzen Yakisoba Lovers Association" named it "Hiruzen Yakisoba".

The "Hiruzen Yakisoba Koitonkai" is a town revitalization group formed in December 2008 by a group of shops that served Hiruzen Yakisoba in Hiruzen. They participate in various events and conduct PR activities. In November 2011, they won first place in the nation (Gold Grand Prix) at the 6th B-1 Grand Prix held in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture.

Asazen Yakisoba and Yoruzen Yakisoba are also excellent.

Morning Fried Noodles

"Asazen Yakisoba" was made possible through the cooperation of Yokote Yakisoba Norenkai (Sunrai's), a B-1 Grand Prix Gold Grand Prix winner.

"Asazen Yakisoba" is Hiruzen Yakisoba topped with a fried egg, a feature of Yokote Yakisoba. In pursuit of perfection in the fried egg, the Yokote Yakisoba Norenkai members were invited to the local restaurant to receive direct instruction, making this a special dish. It is customary to garnish it with Fukujinzuke pickles for color. This is a morning-only menu available until 11:30.

Yoruzen Yakisoba

"Yoruzen Yakisoba" is a spin-off of Hiruzen Yakisoba. Its theme is "an adult flavor that pairs well with alcohol," and it is characterized by its strong, spicy flavor.

The main ingredients are chives, dried daikon radish strips, and chicken offal, but the spiciness can be adjusted in various ways depending on the restaurant, with kimchi sauce and peppercorns added. It is a popular staple to go with alcohol. This is a limited menu that is only available from 3pm.

Okayama Tourism Information

When it comes to sightseeing in Hiruzen where you can eat Hiruzen Yakisoba, the first place to go is the Hiruzen Plateau.

The Hiruzen Plateau, located at an altitude of 500 to 600 meters, is one of the most popular resort areas in western Japan. You can relax by watching the cute Jersey cows grazing in the pastures.

In the vast natural surroundings, there are plenty of leisure facilities where you can enjoy cycling, barbecues, camping, and other activities, as well as amusement parks, hot springs, and other tourist attractions. You can enjoy it throughout the year, as a summer resort and a ski resort in the winter.

Hiruzen Jersey Land

At Hiruzen Jersey Land, you can interact with Jersey cows. It is recommended for those who want to spend a relaxing time surrounded by nature. There are also plenty of delicious gourmet foods such as ice cream and yogurt made with Jersey milk, Jersey beef diced steak, and cheese fondue.

Hiruzen Horse Park

You can enjoy horse riding at Hiruzen Horse Park. It is popular with families because you can feed the horses, lead them, and take them for a mini ride. Of course, you can also get a license. There is also an indoor riding arena, so you can use it without worry even on rainy days.

Hiruzen Winery

Hiruzen Winery cultivates wild grapes, a species that is indigenous to Japan and not found in Europe, and is dedicated to making wine. In addition to wine, they also produce and sell jams and juices. Wine tasting is available, so you can take your time to find your favorite flavor.

How to get to Okayama

There are various ways to get to Okayama. Here are some recommended ways to get there. Travel time may vary depending on the season, weather, etc.

If you are heading to Okayama from Tokyo, we recommend flying. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Haneda Airport to Okayama Momotaro Airport. It takes about 2 hours by rental car from Okayama Momotaro Airport to Hiruzen Plateau.

It takes about 45 minutes from Shin-Osaka Station to Okayama Station, and about 1 hour and 40 minutes from Nagoya Station or Fukuoka Station. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes by rental car from Okayama Station to Hiruzen Plateau.

We also recommend taking a leisurely drive to Okayama. Find the best way to get there.

Location of Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture

summary

"Hiruzen Yakisoba" is characterized by its sweet and spicy miso sauce. The seasoning of the special sauce varies depending on the store, so it is recommended to try and compare them. "Asazen Yakisoba" and "Yoruzen Yakisoba" are also recommended dishes that are served at set times.

If you visit Okayama, be sure to try Hiruzen Yakisoba.

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