Ikkyu no Namida: Beppu's Michelin-Starred Reimen That Warms the Soul!
Discover how this unassuming noodle shop became the highlight of our Beppu hot springs adventure with its soul-warming reimen.
★★★★★ 4.7/5
Restaurant Information
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Name: Ikkyu no Namida (一休の涙)
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Location: 10 Chome-5-7 Ishigakinishi, Beppu, Oita 874-0910, Japan (Westin Yamami Bldg 1F)
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Hours: 11am - 5pm (or until sold out), Closed Thursdays
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Phone: +81 977-25-3118
Key Features
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Cuisine: Michelin-recognized reimen (cold noodles)
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Special: Warm noodle option available
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Local Touch: Kabosu pepper - Oita's signature citrus
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Atmosphere: Cozy, authentic shop with traditional vibes
The Accidental Michelin Discovery
With only sweets for breakfast during our Beppu hot springs adventure, we were starving by lunchtime. Craving the reimen I'd fallen in love with in Morioka, I immediately added Ikkyu no Namida to our itinerary. Only later did I discover this humble shop was Michelin-recognized!
Hot Spring Tip: After soaking in Beppu's therapeutic waters, nothing refreshes like Ikkyu's tangy reimen broth!
Our conversation went like this:
Me: "Who's up for some reimen? Cold noodles in Beppu's autumn?"
Friend B: "But it's freezing! Are you serious?"
Me: "They have warm noodles too! And I hear the kimchi is incredible."
Friend B: "Sold! Let's go!"
Friend A: "Cold stuff are meant to be enjoyed during cold weather, like ice creams!"
Me: "This is why we're friends!"
We arrived to find a queue snaking from the entrance - our first clue this was something special. The simple yet efficient ordering system had us select from the menu outside, where I immediately spotted the large portion option for my post-hike appetite.
The Reimen Revelation
The star of Beppu: Perfectly balanced reimen with kimchi and chaashu
Cold Noodles, Warm Welcome
Stepping inside, we found a cozy, warm space buzzing with energy. The chilled, chewy noodles arrived in a tangy-sweet broth made from:
- Makurazaki bonito (premium dried fish)
- Iausu kelp (for umami depth)
- Beef bones (richness without heaviness)
What sets Ikkyu apart? Zero additives added! The entire bowl is filled with just pure flavors like a gift from nature. The kimchi was so good I ate half straight before mixing it in. The chaashu was lean yet tender - explaining its popularity with health-conscious diners.
Beyond the Noodles
Fluffy chicken tempura that redefines fried chicken
Unexpected Delights
The surprises kept coming:
- Chicken Tempura: Not your ordinary karaage! Fluffy, light crust with incredibly juicy meat inside
- Kabosu Pepper: Oita's signature citrus added a fragrant, bright note to the rich broth
- Warm Option: Perfect for chilly days without compromising flavor
While Morioka reimen remains my gold standard, Ikkyu's version holds its own with thicker, satisfyingly chewy noodles that reminded me of Malaysia's best Hokkien Mee. The broth's delicate balance kept us sipping long after noodles disappeared.
The Michelin Touch
What earns Ikkyu its Michelin recognition? The meticulous craftsmanship:
- Broth simmered for hours without shortcuts
- Noodles with perfect bite and spring
- Kimchi fermented to tangy perfection
- Chaashu tender without excessive fat
We paid in cash (¥1,200-¥1,800 per person) and left completely satisfied, ready to explore Beppu's "Hells" with happy stomachs.
Cozy interior where noodle magic happens
Reimen Showdown: North vs South
Morioka Reimen
Iwate's icy masterpiece. Springy noodles, sweet broth, fruity notes - the gold standard!
Ikkyu no Namida
Beppu's soul-warmer. Chewier noodles, complex broth with warm option - Michelin magic!
Zaru Soba
Classic Japanese. Thin buckwheat noodles dipped in tsuyu - elegant simplicity.
Hiyashi Chūka
Summer favorite. Chilled ramen with colorful toppings - the festive choice!
What We Loved
- Authentic, additive-free broth with perfect tangy-sweet balance
- Chewy noodles with satisfying texture (available in large portions)
- Michelin quality at budget-friendly prices (¥1,000-¥2,000)
- Warm noodle option for chilly Beppu days
- Exceptional kimchi and fluffy chicken tempura
- Kabosu pepper adds unique Oita fragrance
- Cozy atmosphere perfect for post-onsen refueling
Considerations
- Long queues during peak hours (come early!)
- Cash-only payment (no credit cards accepted, remember to bring cash!)
- Limited seating - not ideal for large groups
- Closes early (5pm) and when sold out - so be sure to come early!
- No reservations - first come, first served
Experience Ikkyu's Magic Yourself!
Ready for soul-warming reimen in Beppu? Looking for things to do in Beppu too?
Check our Beppu ItineraryTip: Arrive before 11:30am to avoid longest queues!
Final Verdict
★★★★★ 4.7/5
Ikkyu no Namida delivers Michelin-recognized reimen at everyday prices. The perfect balance of chewy noodles, complex broth, and thoughtful touches make this a must-visit in Beppu.
Perfect for
Post-onsen refreshment
Budget Michelin experiences
Noodle lovers seeking authentic flavors
Solo travelers and small groups
Consider elsewhere if
You dislike queues
Need credit card payment
Traveling with large groups
Prefer dinner-time dining
Insider Tip: Order the "large" portion if you're hungry - the standard size disappears quickly! Add kabosu pepper for authentic Oita flavor. Come before 11:30am or after 2pm for shorter waits.
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