1. Introduction
You thought ordering a bowl of noodles would be easy.
Then you walked into Marugame Seimen and realized… it’s a full-blown mission.
It’s not just “point and eat”—it’s more like an udon obstacle course.
But don’t worry! Once you learn the flow, it’s actually kind of fun.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the Marugame experience—from noodle selection to tempura strategy to mastering the final dash to the register.
2. What to Expect at Marugame Seimen
Marugame Seimen is a popular self-service udon chain across Japan. The moment you step in, you join a cafeteria-style line that walks you through every stage:
Choose your noodles → Pick your toppings → Add side dishes → Pay at the register → Garnish and sit.
Expect an open kitchen with staff preparing noodles fresh right in front of you. The interior feels casual and spacious, with plenty of seats, perfect for solo diners or groups.
The entire process is streamlined, but for first-timers, it might feel like being thrown into a culinary relay race. Don’t worry—we’ll be your baton.
3. How to Order – Step by Step
3-1. Join the Line
When you enter, don’t look for a host or a menu. Just follow the people and get in line.
You’ll be greeted by staff near the kitchen who will ask what kind of udon you want.
3-2. Choose Your Udon
You can choose from several types of udon:
- Kake Udon: Hot broth with noodles
- Bukkake Udon: Cold noodles with strong dashi poured on top
- Zaru Udon: Cold noodles served on a bamboo tray with dipping sauce
- Kamatama: Hot noodles with raw egg
Choose your size: Small (Shou), Medium (Nami), or Large (Dai).
Your udon is made fresh and handed to you in seconds.
3-3. Pick Your Toppings and Sides
Take a tray and move along the counter. This is where you:
- Choose tempura: Shrimp, vegetables, chicken, etc. Pick what you like.
- Pick rice balls or inari sushi if available
- Be careful—it’s easy to overdo it when everything looks good.
3-4. Pay at the Register
At the end of the counter, you’ll reach the cashier.
Hand over your tray, and the staff will tally everything.
Most shops accept:
- Cash
- IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.)
- Credit cards
- QR payments (PayPay, etc.)
3-5. Add Free Garnishes
Before sitting down, there’s usually a condiment station where you can add:
- Green onions
- Tempura flakes (tenkasu)
- Grated ginger
- Soy sauce or dashi broth
Customize to your liking—this is your bowl now.
4. Payment Methods
Marugame Seimen uses a pay-after system at the register.
Most branches accept:
- Cash
- IC cards (Suica, Pasmo, etc.)
- Credit cards
- QR code payments
This makes it convenient for travelers used to various digital payment methods.
5. Tips & Useful Phrases
- “Kake udon onegaishimasu” — I’d like kake udon, please.
- “Omori de” — Large size, please.
- “Topping wa kore” — This for the topping, please.
- Don’t forget to return your tray after eating! Many stores have a return window.
6. Final Thoughts
Marugame Seimen might look intimidating at first, but once you understand the system, it’s actually one of the most satisfying fast-food experiences in Japan.
You get fresh noodles, full control over your toppings, and a casual setting where even locals line up for lunch.
So next time you spot that Marugame sign, don’t hesitate.
Jump in line, grab a tray, and start your udon adventure.
You might also like:
🍽️ How to Order at Hanamaru Udon – Quick, Cheap, and Easy
😲 Shoe Etiquette in Japan: Where, When, and Why to Take Off Your Shoes
