The gateway to Hakata! Experience the legendary soft noodles.
Maki no Udon is located in a prime location on the first basement floor of the Hakata Bus Terminal, directly connected to Hakata Station. This soul food spot is an essential staple for Fukuoka residents, and is especially popular with locals before and after long-distance bus or train trips, or after shopping or work.
Hakata's food culture is deep and varied, with ramen noodles favored as "kata" (firm), while udon noodles are preferred as "yawa" (soft). Maki no Udon truly embodies this "soft noodle" culture at its finest. Why not experience the gentle flavors of Hakata during your travels?
1. Attractions of the Spot: Convenience and Local Experiences Directly Connected to Hakata Station
Excellent Accessibility
Maki no Udon Hakata Station Bus Terminal is directly connected to JR and subway Hakata Station, and is easily accessible by simply walking through the station to the bus terminal and descending to the first basement floor. For tourists looking to maximize their time, there's no better location than this.
A Lively, Casual Atmosphere
The restaurant is bustling with locals waiting for their bus to depart, and businessmen stopping by between work shifts. Slurp down your quickly served udon noodles at a counter or table in this unpretentious, casual atmosphere, and you'll instantly feel the local Hakata vibe.
2. The Core of Maki's Udon: The Shocking Soft Noodles and the Culture of "Never-Shrinking"
Their Greatest Distinctive Feature: Their Exquisitely Soft and Chewy Noodles
Maki's udon noodles continue to absorb the broth even after boiling, expanding steadily in the bowl. They're "exquisitely soft and chewy," with a soft texture that sticks to the palate rather than being chewy, giving rise to the unique legend of "never-shriveling udon." While tourists experiencing it for the first time may be surprised, this is the style of udon that Hakata people truly love.
Connection to Hakata Noodle Culture
・Ramen is "firm," udon is "soft": While Hakata residents prefer firm noodles like "barikata" or "harigane" for rich tonkotsu ramen, they prefer softer udon.
Maki's udon is a prime example of this "soft noodle" culture. Combined with the gentle flavor of the broth, it's a bowl that symbolizes Fukuoka's warm food culture.
3. Recommended Menu and Practical Ordering Tips
Recommended Menu
Burdock Tempura Udon: Cut into bite-sized pieces,
The burdock batter dissolves into the broth,
A must-have dish that unleashes umami and a fragrant aroma. Meat Udon: A generous serving of sweet and spicy beef, topped with a rich, savory flavor that permeates the broth.
A highly satisfying bowl.
Meat and Burdock Tempura: Udon topped with both. The flavors of each intertwine.
A classic Hakata udon dish.
Kashiwameshi: Rice cooked in chicken broth.
A simple yet timeless side dish.
Tips for Ordering and Eating:
- Choosing Noodle Firmness: While you can choose your noodle firmness, we highly recommend trying the local favorites of "medium" or "soft" to experience the authentic texture.
- Adding Dashi: As the noodles absorb the broth and reduce, add the dashi provided in the kettle to adjust the liquid. This self-service feature is a unique part of Maki no Udon's culture.
4. Basic Information for Visitors
Store Name: Maki no Udon Hakata Bus Terminal
Address: 2-1 Hakataeki Chuo-gai, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Hours: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM (L.O. 10:30 PM)
Access: Directly connected to JR and subway Hakata Station.
Located on the first basement floor of the bus terminal.
With ample signage, you won't have to worry about getting lost.
Other Information: Meal tickets are required. Please purchase your ticket first before taking a seat. Service is also fast, making it convenient even when you're pressed for time.
5. Summary
Beginning or ending your trip at Hakata Station, experiencing the warmth of local soul food at Maki no Udon Hakata Bus Terminal will be a wonderful memory.
Savour "soft" udon, the opposite of "kata" ramen, and experience Hakata's profound noodle culture with all five senses.
#Makino Udon #Hakata Udon #Hakata Soul Food #Soft Noodles #Hakata Tourism #Hakata Station #Hakata Bus Terminal #Hakata Bus Center #Meat and Burdock Tempura Udon #Burdock Tempura Udon #Meat Udon