Kanto's Famous Station Soba Collaborates for Tofu Soba's 60th Anniversary

Kanto's Station Soba Collaboration for Hakone Soba's 60th Anniversary

This summer, three prominent companies operating station soba shops along the Kanto lines have joined forces to celebrate a remarkable milestone: the 60th anniversary of Hakone Soba. In a unique collaboration aimed at showcasing the charm of station soba culture, a special limited-time offering will feature the iconic Tofu Soba, known for its refreshing appeal during the hot summer months.

The participating companies in this venture include the Odakyu Restaurant System, JR East Cross Station, and Keio Restaurants. The Tofu Soba will be available for a limited time, from August 1st through August 31st, 2025, priced at 630 yen (including tax). This dish is a sight to behold, presenting a whole block of tofu elegantly perched atop a bed of soba noodles. Not only does it offer a delightful visual impact, but it is also hearty and fulfilling.

For this collaboration, each brand will serve the same Tofu Soba but will provide their unique soba noodles and dipping broth. This allows patrons to experience and compare the distinct characteristics of each brand's offerings while enjoying the familiar topping of tofu, a combination that has garnered a loyal following over the years.

The Legacy of Tofu Soba

The Tofu Soba has a rich history, tracing back approximately 35 years to when a staff member at Hakone Soba's establishment, Tsuzurao, created a noodle dish using tofu. It was later adapted to meet the pricing and serving speed synonymous with station soba, resulting in the simplistic yet impactful dish we know today. Over the years, various products inspired by Tofu Soba have emerged, including a premium menu featuring local tofu from Mount Oyama to commemorate Hakone Soba’s 50th anniversary in 2015.

In the following years, additional variants such as the Tofu Soba with yam and the enhanced Tofu Soba options have also delighted flavor seekers, blending local ingredients into this beloved dish. Among competitors, the generous serving of tofu, complemented by katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes), crispy tempura bits, ginger, and green onions, has made Hakone Soba's Tofu Soba a summer favorite.