This time, I’d like to introduce one of the most famous udon restaurants in Hakata: Karono Uron.
The name means “Udon shop on the corner.”
In the old Hakata dialect, the “do” sound would become “ro”, which is how the name came about.
It’s a long-established place visited by many tourists, but how is the actual shop and its taste?
Karono Uron – A Historic Udon Shop with a Memorable Frog Illustration
Here’s the exterior of Karono Uron. The illustration of a frog eating udon really stands out and gives off a traditional vibe. The shop was apparently founded in 1882.
There’s a haiku-like phrase written on the front: “Karono uron ya ni wakurou ga sanbiki fukurourottotta gena”…?
Apparently, it translates to something like, “Three toads were crouched at the corner udon shop.”
…Uhh… okay, got it.
Even the menu out front looks vintage.
They even have something like “Mentaiko Udon,” clearly aimed at tourists.
(*Though mentaiko is famous in Fukuoka, locals rarely eat this combo.)
The interior is just as atmospheric as the outside suggests.
The menu shows signs of age too.
There are photos of celebrities who visited…
And a strange poem (?) that says something like, “Mmm, eat up.”
Looks like someone tried to create the shop owner’s face using hiragana from the name—but it’s a bit of a stretch… haha.
You can add as much green onion as you like from the table—a pretty standard feature in Fukuoka.
Simple Yet Delicious Udon, Just as You’d Expect in Hakata
I ordered the Niku Goboten Udon (beef and burdock tempura udon).
Here it comes!
Of course, I added a heap of green onions.
The noodles are soft and chewy, yet surprisingly firm.
Crispy burdock tempura…
And sweet-savory simmered beef.
The broth is flavorful and tasty!
Personally, I wouldn’t say it’s particularly exceptional compared to other udon shops, but it offers that classic “normal but delicious” Fukuoka-style udon. And that’s exactly what makes it good.
Combined with the nostalgic atmosphere inside and out, it definitely feels like a spot that’s become a bit of a tourist attraction.
It’s a great place to experience the everyday flavors of Fukuoka while soaking in the old-school vibes.
(Seems it’s been featured in lots of guidebooks—after I sat down, a group of foreign tourists came in right after.)
Karono Uron Is Now “No Photography Allowed” – But Why?
As of 2025, Karono Uron has a no-photography policy for some reason.
Many customers would want to snap photos of their meals for memories, especially when celebrities’ photos are displayed and TV shows have covered the place—so why the ban?
They may have their reasons, but since the “no photos” rule isn’t explained well, I personally don’t recommend visiting Karono Uron.
There are plenty of other delicious udon places to check out in Fukuoka.
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