Morioka City is the capital city and is located in the central inland of Iwate Prefecture. It is well known for local noodles such as “Jajamen,” “Reimen,” and “Wanko soba.” They are called, “The Three Major Noodles of Morioka.”
Originated in Pyongyang on the Korean Peninsula. Many people are fascinated by the distinctive taste combining al dente noodles, rich beef bone broth and sour kimchi!
Morioka Jajamen
It was first introduced from China, and Chinese people called it Zhajiangmian. “Jajamen” is flat noodles topped with miso and meat. It can be garnished to your taste with garlic, vinegar and chilli oil before eating. When done, add some boiling soup to a whisked raw egg in your bowl to enjoy Chi Tantan (egg soup).
Long ago in Iwate, there was a custom of providing freshly boiled soba noodles to large numbers of customers at the same time, a small amount of noodles was served to each customer in a bowl and as the noodles were eaten, the server would continuously replenishes the bowls whilst saying ,“Hai janjan.” This turned into a playful dining experience and can still be enjoyed now whilst eating Wanko Soba.
Come visit Morioka City and taste the fantastic noodles! The three major noodles of Morioka are waiting for you!