One of the things that any foodie should try is the standing noodle shop in Kyoto, as this is truly one of the fast and easy food choices for the busy working Japanese people. Some call these stand-up noodle shops because you can only stand there and eat.
As I have visited Japan well over ten times in the last decade, I have seen these unique food places slowly disappear due to the younger Japanese not showing interest in this age-old ‘fast food’ concept.
Standing Noodle Shop in Kyoto
I have eaten at several standing noodle shops around Tokyo and Osaka in the past, but this one in Kyoto was my first time trying it. I will try just about anything local, and this is truly one of the very local concepts.
The Japanese have been having these kinds of standing noodle shops or even kiosks in subway stations, as almost all Japanese are in a hurry to work, school, and anything else. They always rush and stop at places like these to eat and go quickly. In simple terms, Japanese fast food.
This quick and easy food kiosk usually serves udon or ramen, and it’s very straightforward: go in, order, wait a few minutes, eat, and move along. How difficult is that? This may be a little backwards for foreigners or visitors to Japan, but hey, it’s life here.
Sometimes, you can find shops like these at busy intersections of shopping areas, and sometimes, they are sandwiched between some shops. Otherwise, they may be off the main street, in one of the smaller lanes.
But for those who have never experienced this, I highly recommend you try it if you see one while exploring Japan. Prices are very reasonable, ranging from ¥340 to ¥1000, depending on what you order.
While I explored Kyoto several times in 2024, I stayed at Travelodge Kyoto Kawaramachi as this was the easiest and most convenient hotel for me. It is strategically located along the main road, making it easy for me to walk about.
If this is your first trip to this part of Japan, you can read my article on places to visit in Kyoto for first-timers. I have narrowed down the most popular attractions in and around the city, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit.
Conclusion
Overall, the standing noodles shop in Kyoto is relatively easy to locate. It is just off Kawaramachi-dori, on Takoyakushi-dori, just as you enter on the right side. The prominent landmark at the corner is Don Quijote. Once you see that, turn left or right, depending on how you walk.
Google Maps does not display this, but you should easily find it next to Matsuya Kawaramachi, one of the first few restaurants you see as you walk down the street. Have a great time in Kyoto, and don’t forget to explore the many other interesting local foods here.