Tsushima Udon Inomoto Review: Hitakatsu's No-Wait Gem

As soon as I stepped off the ferry at Hitakatsu Port on Tsushima Island, my absolute first priority was finding a great spot for lunch.

I had read that restaurants right next to the ferry terminal get incredibly crowded immediately after a boat arrives. Honestly, the last thing I wanted to do after traveling was stand in a long, exhausting line.

So, I decided to look just a little further out for a peaceful, high-quality spot with no wait. My first choice was fully booked for a private event, but that turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

Right across the street, I spotted Tsushima Udon Inomoto. It looked modern, inviting, and quiet, so we decided to give it a try. Here is my honest review of this hidden gem!

Tsushima Udon Inomoto (対馬うどんいのもと)

Open: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Closed: Thursdays

Tsushima Udon Inomoto is located just about 0.3 miles (500 meters) from Hitakatsu Port.

Even while wheeling our heavy suitcases, the flat walk was incredibly easy and took less than 10 minutes. Plus, it felt wonderfully peaceful compared to the bustling tourist hub right by the docks.

The restaurant has a very clean, newly renovated exterior, complete with a classic Japanese vending machine out front.

I loved the adorable noren (hanging split curtain) featuring the Tsushima leopard cat (Yamaneko), which is the famous wildlife symbol of the island! 🐈

Stepping inside, you are greeted by an open kitchen and counter area. The entire space is bright, exceptionally clean, and beautifully maintained.

They have a great variety of seating options, including solo counter seats, 2-person and 4-person tables, and even a large table perfect for groups.

They also offer kid-friendly utensils and have parking spaces right out front, making it an incredibly convenient stop for families traveling together.

Menu & How to Order

Ordering is simple and completely stress-free thanks to the digital touch-screen kiosk at the entrance.

It supports multiple languages (including English) and accepts international credit cards, so you don't have to worry if your Japanese is a little rusty!

The menu is straightforward but delicious, featuring their signature Tsushima-style udon, assorted tempura, tempura rice bowls (tendon), and sweet inari sushi.

At your table, you'll find classic shichimi (seven-spice blend) and a unique yuzu shichimi, which adds a wonderful citrus kick to the broth. Water is self-serve from the central station.

The Taste Test

Kake Udon - 780 JPY (approx. $5.00)

I ordered the classic Kake Udon, the most traditional option on the menu. The broth was incredibly clean and packed with a deep, savory umami flavor.

The noodles were the real star of the show—wonderfully springy, thick, and perfectly chewy. It is amazing how a simple, basic bowl of udon can taste this spectacular when done right!

I also ordered a single piece of shrimp tempura. It was so light, shatteringly crispy, and sweet that I instantly regretted not ordering three more!

Shrimp Tempura Bowl (Tendon) - 1,480 JPY (approx. $9.50)

My boyfriend opted for the Shrimp Tempura Bowl (Tendon). The presentation was stunning, featuring plump, perfectly fried shrimp over a bed of fluffy rice.

The sauce is quite rich and savory. If you prefer milder, lighter flavors, I highly recommend sticking to the udon or getting the tempura on the side so you can control the dipping sauce.

While the beer was slightly on the pricey side, let’s be honest—it’s practically a crime not to pair crispy tempura with a cold draft beer on vacation!

Even the shared restroom was spotless and well-maintained. During our visit, the restaurant was mostly filled with local Japanese residents rather than tourists, which is always the ultimate sign of a great eatery!

If you are looking for a delicious, stress-free meal in Hitakatsu without the crazy ferry-rush wait times, Tsushima Udon Inomoto is the perfect choice. Highly recommended!