About
Classic chain specializing in Yamanashi Prefecture's signature houtou noodles, serving thick flat wheat noodles cooked directly in miso-based broth with seasonal vegetables, particularly kabocha squash. The Station Branch location offers maximum convenience, located directly across from Kawaguchiko Station (30-second walk). 🔗
Cultural & Religious Significance
Houtou represents the cultural heart of Yamanashi Prefecture's culinary tradition, embodying centuries of mountain survival cuisine adapted for harsh winters around Mount Fuji. This dish sustained local communities since the era of warlord Takeda Shingen, developed as agricultural innovation when rice fields were converted to silk farms. The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries selected houtou as one of Japan's 100 regional dishes in 2007. 🔗
Unlike udon, houtou noodles are prepared more like dumplings and boiled raw with other ingredients, creating a heartier, more substantial dining experience representative of mountain survival cuisine. 🔗
Visiting Information
Operating Hours:
- All locations: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM daily
- May close earlier if ingredients exhausted 🔗
Locations:
- Station Branch (most convenient): 3631-2 Funatsu (30-second walk from station)
- North Main Store: 707 Kawaguchi (traditional atmosphere with thick wooden beams)
- Higashikoiji Branch: 2458 Funatsu (distinctive white dome building, 300 seats)
- South Branch: 1672-2 Funatsu 🔗
Payment: Cash-only at most locations Reservation: Walk-in basis, expect 15-30 minute waits during autumn season
The Experience
Signature "Fudou Hoto": Thick noodles, kabocha squash, and miso broth served in traditional iron pots. Folk art-style interior with thick wooden beams and nostalgic atmosphere at traditional locations. Large portions often suitable for sharing between two people. 🔗
Seasonal Benefits (October 2025): Peak season for hot, comforting noodles as evening temperatures drop. Coincides with Kawaguchiko Momiji Festival, making houtou perfect post-foliage viewing meal. Kabocha squash and other vegetables at peak seasonal quality. 🔗
Practical Visiting Tips
Ordering Strategy:
- Consider sharing one bowl between two people due to generous serving sizes
- Dishes served extremely hot in cast iron - use provided wooden implements
- Traditional dining features tatami seating requiring shoe removal 🔗
Cultural Etiquette:
- Show appreciation for regional culinary tradition - houtou represents deep local pride
- Maintain quiet, respectful behavior as popular with local families
- Steam rising from iron pots creates dramatic food photography opportunities 🔗
Access from Accommodation (216 Kodachi):
- Station Branch: Via Kawaguchiko Station (most convenient)
- All restaurants within 10-15 minutes by car
- Public transportation available via station area 🔗
Location: View on Google Maps
Source: attractions/fujikawaguchiko/houtou-fudou-restaurants.md