You walk into Hanamaru Udon thinking it’s just another fast noodle joint.
But then—there’s a tray line, surprise toppings, and a garnish bar that feels like a mini salad station.
It’s affordable, efficient, and deceptively complex… unless you know the flow.
This guide breaks it down so you can enjoy your udon without looking totally lost.
1. What to Expect at Hanamaru
Hanamaru Udon is a popular self-service noodle chain across Japan. You’ll find it in shopping malls, train stations, and food courts.
The layout is simple but effective: follow the line from the noodle counter to tempura, then to the register and condiment station.
Compared to Marugame Seimen, Hanamaru tends to be slightly faster, slightly cheaper, and a bit more compact—perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.
2. How to Order – Step by Step
2-1. Join the Line
Enter the shop and follow the queue. There’s no need to wait for a host. Just grab a tray and get ready to order.
2-2. Choose Your Udon
Tell the staff what kind of udon you want:
- Kake Udon: Hot broth with noodles
- Bukkake Udon: Cold noodles with a splash of sauce
- Zaru Udon: Cold noodles served with dipping sauce
- Ontama Bukkake: Bukkake style with a soft-boiled egg
Choose your size: Small (Shou), Medium (Chuu), or Large (Dai).
2-3. Pick Toppings and Sides
Next, move along the line and choose from:
- Tempura: Shrimp, veggies, chicken, etc.
- Rice balls or small curry bowls (availability varies by location)
Everything is self-serve, so take only what you want—and try not to overload your tray.
2-4. Pay at the Register
At the end of the line, pay for your items. Most shops accept:
- Cash
- IC cards (like Suica or Pasmo)
- Credit cards
- QR code payments
2-5. Add Free Garnishes
There’s usually a station with free toppings:
- Green onions
- Tempura flakes (tenkasu)
- Grated ginger
- Soy sauce or dipping broth
Mix and match to your taste!
3. Payment Methods
At Hanamaru, you’ll pay at the register after choosing your noodles and toppings. Payment options often include:
- Cash
- IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.)
- Credit cards
- QR code payments (PayPay, etc.)
It’s tourist-friendly and quick.
4. Tips & Useful Phrases
- “Ontama bukkake onegaishimasu” — I’d like ontama bukkake udon, please.
- “Chuu de” — Medium size, please.
- “Topping wa kore” — This is my topping.
- Return your tray when finished—look for the return station.
5. Final Thoughts
Hanamaru Udon offers a quick, budget-friendly noodle experience that’s easy to enjoy even if you don’t speak Japanese.
It may not be flashy, but it’s fast, reliable, and surprisingly satisfying—especially if you’re hungry and short on time.
So next time you spot Hanamaru, don’t hesitate. Jump in line and slurp away!
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🍽️ How to Order at Yamada Udon – Saitama’s Most Mysterious Noodle Shop
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