Celebrating 60 Years: A Special Soba Collaboration in Kanto

Celebrating 60 Years of Hakone Soba

In a unique collaboration, three prominent soba vendors in the Kanto area are coming together to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Hakone Soba. This special initiative sees the limited-time offering of the beloved 'Tofu Soba,' a culinary highlight of summer, available from August 1 to August 31, 2025.

A Taste of Tradition

The 'Tofu Soba' is not just a dish; it's a symbol of the rich food culture associated with train stations in Japan. It features a whole block of tofu placed atop a generous serving of soba noodles, creating a visually striking and satisfying meal. This collaborative project aims to share the charm of station soba while attracting new fans, continuing a partnership initiated in 2023.

The three participating companies are:
1. Odakyu Restaurant System Inc. (headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo)
2. JR East Cross Station, Inc. (also based in Shibuya, Tokyo)
3. Keio Restaurant, Inc. (located in Fuchu, Tokyo)

The uniqueness of this offering lies in each company's interpretation of the same dish. During this promotion, each company will serve the 'Tofu Soba' in identical presentations, allowing customers to savor the different flavor profiles of each restaurant’s soba and dipping sauce. This is a perfect opportunity for soba enthusiasts to taste and compare.

Product Details

- Name: Tofu Soba
- Price: 630 yen (tax included)
- Availability: From August 1, 2025, to August 31, 2025
- Description: As the name suggests, this dish prominently features a whole block of tofu sitting atop the soba, providing both visual impact and a hearty eating experience.

Participating Locations

Hakone Soba Version

- Available at all Hakone Soba stores (except for Hakone Soba Honjin). Customers can check the website for a complete list of locations.

Soba Ichi Version (4 stores)

- Akihabara Station (within the Excute Akihabara)
- Tokyo Station (Grandsta Tokyo, 1st floor)
- Shinjuku Station (within South Exit)
- Ebisu Station (within East Exit)

Takahata Soba Version (2 stores)

- Takahata Fudo Station (within the ticket gates)
- Meidaimae Station (within the ticket gates)

The Legacy of Tofu Soba

The origins of the Tofu Soba can be traced back about 35 years to an innovation by a team member at Hakone Soba. It was inspired by a tofu-based soba dish sold at their restaurant 'Tsuzurao.' The adaptation ensured that it was suitable for the quick service model associated with train station dining, resulting in the tasty and impactful dish we know today. Over time, various collaborations and products have emerged from this original concept, yet the classic Tofu Soba remains a summer staple and a fan favorite.

Celebrating 'Hakosoba Day'

To honor its loyal customers, Hakone Soba established 'Hakosoba Day,' celebrated every August 5, beginning in 2015 to mark its 50th anniversary. The date holds significance as the first branch opened in August 1965, with '8' and '5' cleverly representing the name 'Hako' (box).

The event has included various promotions, such as the 'Hakosoba Grand Prix,' where customers vote on their favorite menu items and special one-day offerings of the popular 'Hakosoba Special' topped with a variety of tempura and side dishes. In 2025, the collaboration will recreate the celebratory atmosphere with a special menu available from August 4 to August 6.

About Hakone Soba and Other Brands

Hakone Soba

Centered predominantly along the Odakyu Line, Hakone Soba continues to be cherished by local customers. Known for freshly boiled noodles paired with light and flavorful broth, the restaurant prides itself on its handmade tempura, providing a traditional Japanese dining experience.

- Official Hakone Soba X

Soba Ichi

This soba specialist takes pride in in-house noodle production and freshly fried tempura, creating a delightful dining atmosphere designed to ensure customers return for more.

- Iroganan Kiraku X

Takahata Soba

Operating within Takahata Fudo and Meidaimae stations, this stall offers convenience for quick meals, including a Yamagata specialty dish combining soba and Chinese noodles in a flavorful soup.