Deep in the mountains of Otari Village, Nagano Prefecture, Soba-ya Hotaru is widely regarded as one of the best places to enjoy authentic, handmade soba in the region. Known for its dedication to traditional techniques and local ingredients, this small soba restaurant draws visitors from across Nagano and beyond. If you love soba, this is a place that belongs at the top of your list.

Soba-ya Hotaru keeps its menu intentionally simple, offering just two types of soba noodles. Guests can choose between soba made with buckwheat husks or soba made without them, each with its own distinct aroma and texture. Both options highlight the natural flavor of buckwheat and reflect the craftsmanship that goes into every batch of noodles, which are made by hand in the traditional style.

Another highlight of dining at Soba-ya Hotaru is the opportunity to watch the chefs making soba noodles by hand. Through the open kitchen area, guests can see the careful process of kneading, rolling, and cutting the buckwheat dough using traditional techniques passed down over generations.

The dipping sauces are another highlight of the experience. Diners can choose a classic soba tsuyu or a richer miso sesame and walnut tsuyu. The latter is served with whole walnuts, which you crush and mix yourself at the table before dipping your noodles. This hands-on process adds an extra layer of enjoyment and allows you to adjust the flavor to your preference, creating a deeply satisfying and memorable meal.

Many visitors enjoy their soba with seasonal tempura, which includes mushrooms and mountain vegetables, known as sansai. The tempura portions are large, and they are carefully prepared to complement the noodles. The wild vegetable and mushroom tempura  reflect the surrounding landscape and change throughout the year, reinforcing the restaurant’s connection to local traditions and ingredients. Eating this simple meal of soba and tempura in the mountains lets you enjoy delicious local food in a peaceful, beautiful setting.

Soba-ya Hotaru is set in a beautifully scenic location surrounded by forests and mountains, making the journey part of the experience. The restaurant is especially popular during autumn, when the surrounding trees turn vivid shades of red, orange, and gold. Because of its reputation, it is common to find a long queue, particularly during peak seasons and weekends, but many visitors agree the wait is well worth it.

For those exploring Otari Village or traveling through the northern Nagano area, Soba-ya Hotaru offers a rare chance to enjoy truly authentic soba in a culturally rich setting. The combination of handmade noodles, traditional dipping sauces, seasonal mountain vegetables, and stunning natural scenery makes this one of the most rewarding dining experiences in the region.

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FAQs:

What kind of soba do they serve?

They serve two types of handmade soba: one made with buckwheat husks and one without. Both highlight the natural flavor of buckwheat.

What dipping sauces are available?

Guests can choose between a classic soba tsuyu or a miso sesame and walnut tsuyu, which you crush and mix yourself at the table.

Is it busy?

Yes, Soba-ya Hotaru is very popular and often has long queues, especially on weekends and during the autumn season. They close in the winter.