#Japan #Tokyo #Tsukaji #Joban Line #Standing Noodle

Discovering Tokyo's Hidden Culinary Gems

In a recent episode of BS Nihon’s show featuring Drunk Dragon's Taka Muga Tsukaji, viewers were treated to a delightful exploration of two remarkable standing noodle shops along the Joban Line. In this culinary adventure, Tsukaji not only reviews mouth-watering dishes but also shares delightful anecdotes from his past.

One of the featured spots is a standing noodle shop located right in front of Ayase Station in Adachi Ward, Tokyo. Tsukaji, reminiscing about his childhood days playing baseball, humorously shared, "I was known as the ‘Outfield King’ since I often caught balls that soared towards left field while I played right."

As the narrative progressed, viewers witness a hilarious moment when Tsukaji discovers a shop crafting realistic cat head dolls, aptly named the “real cat head.” This adds a quirky twist to his culinary journey. Tsukaji even tries on one of the oversized cat masks, resulting in an entertaining moment that had the crew in stitches. "This might just be the funniest thing I’ve ever worn!" exclaimed Tsukaji, showcasing the light-hearted tone of the show.

A Gourmet Standing Noodle Experience

The highlight of his culinary quest at the Ayase shop is the incredible variety of dishes. The owner, with over 53 years of experience in tempura, kaiseki, and sushi, is dedicated to serving authentic flavors that represent Japanese culture. Tsukaji points out that, “Noodles are simple yet profoundly intricate,” emphasizing the dedication and craftsmanship behind each dish.

With more than 80 items on the menu, including various tempura and side dishes, the shop has outgrown its ticket vending machine, necessitating the addition of a wall menu for further listings. Tsukaji was thrilled with his selection, which included egg tempura and natto with eggplant. He remarked, "I put ¥1000 into the machine and got the egg tempura, eggplant natto, and a hot soba. Incredible value!" His review paints a vivid picture of the unique flavors: “The rich, gooey texture of the natto combined with the soft eggplant, scallions, and perilla leaves is a flavor sensation. And the egg tempura is so delicate that you can only lift it with a spoon! This is a simple yet thoughtful combination.” Tsukaji's enthusiasm clearly demonstrates how this dining experience expanded his appreciation for the noodle culture.

Visiting the Historic Yayoi-ken

The second stop in Tsukaji’s journey takes him to Chiba Prefecture’s Abiko City, home to the celebrated standing noodle shop, Yayoi-ken, which boasts a history of over 90 years. Famous for once employing the wandering genius painter Kiyoshi Yamashita, the shop is particularly known for its massive fried chicken made from half a chicken thigh. Tsukaji promises viewers a look at this astonishing dish during the encore broadcast.

Both of these delightful noodle shops reflect the essence of Japanese standing noodle culture, representing warmth and culinary innovation. Tsukaji’s journey is not just about tasting food; it’s about celebrating the rich stories and human connections behind each bowl. Whether you're a locals or tourists, these hidden gems along the Joban Line are a testament to the enduring appeal of authentic Japanese cuisine. Don't miss the next thrilling episode of Tsukaji's culinary explorations every Monday night at 10 PM on BS Nihon.

Credits: (C) BS Nihon