Japan’s Three Must-Try Local Delicacies: Mishima’s Mizusawa Udon

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family / Zhang Yingying

Traveling to Gunma Prefecture is very convenient—just about an hour by Shinkansen from Tokyo. The prefecture is home to famous hot springs like Ikaho Onsen, Kusatsu Onsen, and Yubatake Onsen, which offer stunning scenery year-round. With the development of tourism, many local experiences and attractions have become increasingly suitable for international visitors.

To try Mizusawa udon in Gunma, head to Ozawa-ya near Ikaho Onsen. Ozawa-ya is also a popular spot among locals. The spacious interior features numerous works by renowned Japanese artist Taro Okamoto. According to the owner, Taro Okamoto was a good friend of the shop’s proprietor, which is why many of his pieces are displayed here—a delightful surprise alongside the delicious Mizusawa udon.

Ozawa-ya’s Mizusawa udon menu may seem simple, but the noodles come in both cold (dipped) and hot soup versions, paired with freshly fried local mushroom tempura—delicious and flavorful. The Mizusawa udon is springy, smooth, and chewy, making it easy to polish off the whole bowl. They also sell half-cooked Mizusawa udon and dipping sauce on-site, along with beautifully crafted handmade cloth wraps that can be purchased together as premium souvenirs.