Teuchi Udon Masuya: Exceptionally Firm Sanuki Udon

Teuchi Udon Masuya (手打ちうどんますや) is a must-visit for anyone on an udon pilgrimage in Kagawa Prefecture, the home of Sanuki udon. The shop's specialty is its ‘goumen’ (剛麺), or “manly noodles” — exceptionally thick, dense, and chewy hand-cut udon served in generous portions. This is udon with an extreme bounce and firmness that has earned it a loyal following.

Reviewers consistently praise this unique noodle texture, whether served hot in a simple kake broth or cold as bukkake or nama-shoyu (with soy sauce). The dashi, made from iriko (dried sardines) and katsuobushi (bonito flakes), is described as punchy yet perfectly balanced. Alongside the noodles, the tempura selection is a highlight, with favourites including chikuwa (fish cake), tori-ten (chicken), and a much-loved version made with koya-dofu (freeze-dried tofu). Despite a language barrier, non-Japanese visitors report that the staff are helpful and that ordering by pointing works well.

The main drawbacks are logistical. The shop is only open for lunch and closes as soon as the noodles sell out, which can be as early as 1 p.m. This leads to long queues, and service can feel rushed during peak hours. Some diners find the noodles too firm for their liking, and popular tempura items may be sold out or no longer hot later in the service. Reviewers call the value outstanding, with a satisfying meal often costing well under ¥1000. A small bowl of kake udon was recently around ¥270–¥300, while a small nama-shoyu was ¥330. Adding a piece of chikuwa tempura (¥120) or koya-dofu tempura (¥130) brings a typical meal to between ¥400 and ¥800.

• Booking: Walk-in only; reservations are not accepted. Expect long queues. To avoid disappointment, it is best to arrive at or even before the 11:00 opening time.
• Payment: Cash only. Credit cards, electronic money, and QR code payments are not accepted.
• Service Style: This is a self-service restaurant. You order and pay at the counter, pick up your udon, and add your own condiments.
• Getting There: The restaurant is a house-style building located 535 meters from Katamoto Station.
• Children: The restaurant officially welcomes school-age children. However, there is an isolated report from one reviewer of poor treatment toward a family with a toddler.
• Parking: 23 spaces are available, but the access road is narrow and parking can fill up quickly.
• Smoking: The entire restaurant is non-smoking.