Instant Noodles

Instant noodles are a popular snack/quick meal in Japan that requires relatively little effort to prepare. Instant noodles are sold precooked in a dried block, usually accompanied with flavoring salt and oils. Sometimes there are various dried foods that are cooked with the noodles when hot water is added. Instant noodles were invented by Taiwanese-Japanese Momofuku Ando of Nissin Foods. Launched in 1958 as Chikin Ramen, Nissin introduced Cup Noodles/Cup Ramen in 1971 using the same method to prepare, but in a polystyrene cup, providing portability and minimal clean up. According to a Japanese poll in 2000, it is believed that the Japanese consider instant noodles to be their best invention of the 20th century.

In the United States and many other parts of the world, Instant Ramen is synonymous for instant noodles. However, in Japan there are many ways to enjoy instant noodles. Some include:

• Ramen
• Yakisoba (fried noodles cooked by adding then straining hot water)
• Udon
• Soba
• Somen (cold noodles cooked by adding hot water, then ice cubes)

There are also other instant foods in Japan that are worth trying, like instant curry, rice, and miso soups!

Want to make your own custom cup of instant noodles while in Japan? With Japan Deluxe Tour's affordable day trips and custom add-on's, include a visit to Yokohama's Cup Noodle Museum to make your own personalized instant noodles as a memento of your Japan tour with us!