Reader’s Question: Is there a recommended udon shop that opens around 8 AM on the way from Takamatsu Station to Takamatsu Chikko Station? I am accompanied by a child in the lower grades of elementary school.
Discovering Udon in Takamatsu
Ah, Takamatsu! A gem of a city on the island of Shikoku, famous for its udon noodles that are practically a work of art. My recent trip there was nothing short of magical, especially because I was accompanied by my little one, who is in the lower grades of elementary school. When it came to finding a delightful spot for breakfast, I had one mission: to locate a fantastic udon shop that opened around 8 AM on our way from Takamatsu Station to Takamatsu Chikko Station. Buckle up, because I’m excited to share our delicious adventure!
Getting Started: The Quest for Breakfast
We arrived at Takamatsu Station bright and early, fueled by the anticipation of a day filled with exploration. The sun was just peeking over the horizon, casting a warm golden glow on everything. My child, wide-eyed and eager, was buzzing with energy, ready to dive into the world of udon. As we stepped out of the station, I had my trusty Google Maps ready, but honestly, the excitement of wandering around and discovering hidden gems was calling my name.
After a bit of searching, we stumbled upon a little udon shop called “Yamagoe.” It’s a cozy spot, with a welcoming vibe that immediately made us feel at home. The best part? It was just a short 10-minute walk from the station, so it was perfect for our early morning appetite!
First Impressions: Yamagoe’s Atmosphere
As we entered Yamagoe, the tantalizing aroma of freshly made udon filled the air. You know that smell that just wraps around you like a warm hug? Yep, that was it. The place was modestly decorated with wooden tables and traditional tatami mats, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. I noticed a few local customers already seated, slurping away happily at their bowls of steaming noodles.
Being there felt like stepping into someone’s home, where the chef poured their heart into every dish. The staff greeted us with genuine smiles, and my child was immediately drawn to the colorful menus plastered on the walls. Let’s be honest—when you’re traveling with a kid, a bright menu is like a beacon of hope!
The Menu: Choices, Choices!
Now, udon is known for its versatility, and Yamagoe was no exception. The menu was filled with options that ranged from traditional to creative. There were basic sanuki udon bowls with dashi broth, rich and delicious curry udon, and even some tempura on the side. I was tempted to try everything, but I had to think practically—my little one’s stomach was not that big!
After a bit of deliberation, we settled on a classic sanuki udon, served hot with a generous sprinkle of green onions, and a side of tempura. My kiddo chose the curry udon, because let’s be real, who can resist curry? The excitement was palpable as we watched our dishes being prepared right in front of us. It’s always a treat to see the chefs at work; it adds a dash of magic to the meal!
Savoring the Experience
When our bowls arrived, it was like Christmas morning. The steaming noodles looked inviting, and the aroma was absolutely intoxicating. My heart raced as I took the first slurp of my sanuki udon. The noodles were perfectly chewy, and the broth was rich without being overwhelming. I glanced over at my child, who had already dived into their curry udon, eyes wide with delight. The bowl was a vibrant yellow, and they were clearly in noodle heaven.
As we slurped away, the world outside faded into a delicious blur. We chatted about our plans for the day, making silly slurping sounds that made us both giggle. I realized that meals like these are what travel is all about—sharing experiences, discovering new flavors, and making memories. For a moment, it felt like we were locals, like we belonged in this little udon haven.
A Hidden Gem Worth Visiting
After devouring our meals, we lingered a bit longer, savoring the experience. I couldn’t help but notice that Yamagoe was a hidden gem—one of those places that could easily be overlooked. It’s not flashy or trendy, but that’s what makes it special! I strongly believe that the best food often comes from the least assuming places, and this was a perfect example.
Before we left, I struck up a conversation with the chef. He was an older gentleman with a warm smile, and I told him how much we enjoyed his udon. He beamed with pride and shared a little about how he makes the noodles from scratch every morning. It’s that dedication that really shines through in the meal. I think my kid might have even snagged a few words of Japanese to impress the chef, which added to the fun!
Onward to Takamatsu Chikko Station
With our bellies full and hearts happy, we made our way to Takamatsu Chikko Station. The beautiful stroll along the way was filled with laughter and light chatter about our favorite things from breakfast. I felt a sense of accomplishment, like we had uncovered a secret that needed to be shared with others. If you ever find yourself near Takamatsu Station, make sure to stop by Yamagoe for a delightful bowl of udon. It’s a tasty start to any day in this beautiful city!
Final Thoughts
In the end, my quest for an early breakfast udon shop in Takamatsu was a success, and the experience reinforced why I love travel so much. It’s about the little things—the mouthwatering meals that bring you closer to a culture, the unexpected conversations, and the smiles shared over a bowl of noodles. So whether you’re traveling with kids or flying solo, embrace those moments. They’re what make the journey worthwhile.
I can’t wait to return to Takamatsu someday, maybe with my little one as a grown-up, letting them discover the joys of traveling and delicious food. Until then, I hope you find your own udon adventure—because trust me, nothing quite compares to those perfectly chewy noodles and that rich, savory broth. Happy travels, my friends!
