1. Introduction
You’re in Tokyo. You’ve just wandered out of your hotel, jetlagged and hungry, when you spot a glowing red sign that says “名代 富士そば”.
Is it a soba shop? A katsudon shop? A tempura place? The answer is… yes.
Welcome to Fujisoba, the everything-everywhere-all-at-once of Japanese fast food.
Cheap, fast, and confusing—in the best possible way.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to conquer the vending machine, choose the right noodles,
and avoid accidentally ordering something with raw egg. Probably.
And hey—Fujisoba even made an official English video called “How to use FUJISOBA for foreigners.”
So if you ever feel overwhelmed, just know you’re not alone—and they’ve got your back.
2. What to Expect at Fujisoba
Fujisoba is a popular chain of quick-service noodle shops, mostly found around train stations in Tokyo and other urban centers.
While the name says “soba,” you’ll find udon, katsudon, curry, and other mystery meals too.
The vibe is no-nonsense. Most shops are counter-style, some with standing areas, others with stools.
It’s fast, it’s cheap, and it’s usually full of salarymen on a tight lunch break.
3. How to Order – Step by Step
3-1. Use the Vending Machine
Near the entrance, you’ll find a vending machine with buttons, pictures, and (usually) English support.
Choose hot or cold, soba or udon, with or without egg or tempura.
Insert cash or IC card, press the button, and out comes your meal ticket.
3-2. Hand Your Ticket to the Staff
Take your ticket to the counter and hand it to the staff.
Depending on the shop, they may call out a number or just hand it to you when ready.
3-3. Wait and Eat
Your food typically arrives within 1–3 minutes.
Stand at the counter or grab a seat, and enjoy your ultra-efficient noodle experience.
Chopsticks, water, and condiments are all self-service.
4. Payment Methods
Fujisoba uses a pay-first system with vending machines.
Most machines accept:
- Cash (coins and bills)
- IC cards (like Suica or Pasmo)
Note: Many machines do not accept credit cards or QR codes, so keep some yen or a transit card handy.
5. Tips & Useful Phrases
- Soba / Udon: You can choose either—same price!
- Tama = Egg (watch out for Tama Soba, which includes raw egg)
- Tendon / Katsudon: Rice bowls with tempura or pork cutlet
- Set menu: Includes noodles + small rice bowl—good value
Bonus tip: If the vending machine has too many buttons, just look for the ones with “人気” (popular) or follow the pictures.
And remember, Fuji Soba made a helpful English video—you’re not expected to figure it all out on your own!
6. Final Thoughts
Fujisoba is the ultimate fast-food shortcut for travelers who want to eat like a local.
It’s not gourmet, but it’s fast, cheap, satisfying—and a little bit quirky.
It’s a crash course in vending machines, Japanese menus, and urban noodle culture.
Even if you’re not a soba fan, this is one of those “when in Japan” moments worth trying.
So go ahead, press a button, and slurp like you mean it.
You might also like:
🍽️ How to Order at Yudetaro in Japan – A Local Guide to Soba Culture
😲 Where and What to Eat in Japan
