Handa Somen

Handa Somen introduction

Handa Somen (半田そうめん, Handa somen) is a specialty from Tsurugi Town, Handa, a nature-blessed area located in western Tokushima Prefecture. Despite being a small town, it is renowned for its many somen producers and its long-standing reputation as the birthplace of Handa Somen. This unique somen boasts a history spanning over 200 years. According to one common theory documented in the "Handa Town History," Handa Somen originated in the Tempō era (1830-1844) when a sailor on the Hirata boats, which operated between Onohama Port and the Muya area, began making somen at home for his family and as a side job. The somen-making techniques were said to have traveled through Miwa Town in Nara Prefecture, Awaji Island, and Naruto before reaching Handa. Handa Somen is a product of exceptional quality, widely regarded as one of the finest across Japan. Its distinctive taste is unforgettable after just one bite. As highlighted in the "Handa Somen Ondo" traditional song, the noodles are slightly thicker and have a firm, springy texture that truly delights. What sets Handa Somen apart from typical somen is its thickness. According to the Japanese Agricultural Standards (JAS), noodles of this thickness usually fall under the "hiyamugi" category. However, Handa Somen is recognized for its historical ties and the unique noodle culture rooted in the region since the Edo period, allowing it to retain the name "somen" as an exception. With its thicker noodles, distinctive aroma, and remarkable texture, Handa Somen has earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence.

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Other information

• NameHanda Somen
• Area Tokushima
• Kind of food Soba & Udon

Tokushima Other recommended dishes

Soba & Udonrelated dishes