Izumo Soba Arakiya (出雲そば 荒木屋)

Flow of the course

About this spot

This establishment is said to be the oldest soba restaurant in Izumo and hangs its noren curtain on the street west of Izumo Taisha. The signature dish is wariko soba served in three stacked vermillion-lacquered round bowls. The soba noodles, made from buckwheat ground with its hulls intact, have a deep color and are known for their strong aroma and firm texture. Broth is poured directly over the noodles in the bowl, and the remaining broth is transferred to the next tier as you continue eating—the Izumo way. In keeping with this place of auspicious unions, a set pairing soba with zenzai is also popular. Though the queue is constant, service is relatively quick. By the time you finish the three tiers, you'll be completely captivated by the depth of Izumo soba.

Tips

Expect a line at lunch time. Arriving around 11 o'clock, right after opening, keeps your wait short. The proper Izumo way to enjoy this dish is to add condiments gradually and refill the broth from the first tier onward.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour. Arriving during the 11 o'clock hour right after opening means a shorter queue and unhurried enjoyment.

Access & map

〒699-0701 Shimane Prefecture, Izumo City, Taisha Town, Kizuki-Higashi 409-2 (島根県出雲市大社町杵築東４０９−２)