If you’re traveling in Japan and looking for a quick, authentic, and affordable meal, don’t miss “tachigui soba”—a traditional standing soba noodle experience. Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy it like a local!

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What is Tachigui Soba?

“Tachigui” literally means “standing and eating.” Tachigui soba restaurants are small noodle stands where you eat while standing at a counter. These places are designed for speed and efficiency, perfect for commuters and busy travelers. You’ll often find them:

• Inside or near train stations
• Along busy city streets
• In underground shopping malls (especially in Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities)

Despite their fast-food format, the soba is usually fresh, tasty, and inexpensive.

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How to Order Tachigui Soba

There are typically two types of ordering systems:

1. Ticket Machine System

Most tachigui soba shops use vending machines at the entrance. Here’s how it works:

1. Choose your soba (with tempura, raw egg, mountain vegetables, etc.) from the pictures or buttons.
2. Insert cash (many do not accept cards).
3. Get your meal ticket.
4. Hand the ticket to the staff at the counter.

2. Counter Order

Some small shops still use a traditional counter:

1. Tell the staff your order (you may need some basic Japanese like “Tempura soba”).
2. Pay immediately or after eating—it depends on the shop.
3. Wait a few minutes—the soba is often made right in front of you!

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Dining Etiquette

• Stand at the counter. There are usually no chairs.
• Eat quickly but not rushed—people usually finish in 5–10 minutes.
• Don’t linger—these shops are designed for short stops.
• Slurping is okay! In Japan, it’s even considered a sign of enjoying your noodles.

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How Much Does It Cost?

• Most tachigui soba meals range from ¥300–¥600.
• Even with tempura or extra toppings, it rarely exceeds ¥800.
• It’s a budget-friendly way to experience Japanese food culture.

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Popular Toppings

• Tempura (shrimp or vegetable)
• Kakiage (mixed fried veggies)
• Tororo (grated yam)
• Raw egg
• Green onions and seaweed

You can often choose hot or cold soba depending on the season.

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Where to Try Tachigui Soba

• Tokyo Station (inside the JR gates)
• Shinjuku, Ueno, and Ikebukuro Stations
• Osaka’s Umeda Station area
• Local train stations in regional cities

Just look for signs that say “立ち食いそば” or “そば.”

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Why Try Tachigui Soba?

Tachigui soba isn’t just a meal—it’s a cultural experience. It reflects the fast-paced life of Japan’s urban centers, and gives you a taste of how everyday people eat. It’s also a fun way to challenge yourself with a uniquely Japanese food tradition!

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Pro Tips

• If you don’t speak Japanese, pointing at the machine or menu usually works.
• Some machines have English labels or pictures, especially in touristy areas.
• Bring cash—¥1,000 bills and coins are best.

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Want a taste of real Japan between trains or while exploring the city? Tachigui soba is the perfect stop.

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