FukushimaTravel

Savor the Specialty 'Negi Ichihon Soba' Using a Long Green Onion as Chopsticks

About this spot

A soba restaurant in a thatched-roof traditional house near the entrance of Ouchi-juku. The specialty, known nationally as "Negi Ichihon Soba" (one green onion soba), is a takao soba—a hearty dish where you use a single whole long green onion as chopsticks to eat the soba, and bite into the onion itself as seasoning. This unique way of eating has made it a must-try when visiting Ouchi-juku. The cold soba, flavored with grated daikon juice and bonito flakes, has a perfect balance of spiciness and umami. The dining room, with its exposed heavy beams, carries the spirit of Aizu folk crafts, and every detail—from the tableware to the arrangement—is thoughtfully considered. Struggling playfully with the green onion chopsticks together makes for a memorable highlight of your trip.

Tips

One of Ouchi-juku's most popular restaurants; expect a line during lunch. During busy times, you write your name on a waiting list and enjoy the town until called. The restaurant is mainly open during lunch and closes early in the afternoon—aim to enter by around 3 p.m. for a later lunch. Bring cash for payment.