Hello there, fellow travelers!

This is Binako, a writer for Sarukuma, who somehow ends up snacking on Pretz right before bed!

Today I’m excited to introduce a wonderful tempura spot located on Chuo-dori in Yamaga City, Kumamoto Prefecture —
“Kodawari-tei Yamaga”.

Since I visited at night, the exterior looks a bit dark in the photo, but this is a charming tempura restaurant nestled in Yamaga!

There are three parking spots right in front of the restaurant.

Plus, there’s additional parking around the back, so you can come by car with peace of mind!

Inside, you’ll find counter seating along with two table seats.

From the back of the dining area, you can even watch the chefs frying tempura right before your eyes — a real treat!

The shop also sells local goodies like ika no shiokara (salted squid), tea, and black rice — perfect souvenirs to take home!

Kabosu citrus from Oita Prefecture
1kg for just 280 yen!
These looked absolutely delicious — a real bargain for fresh Japanese citrus!

If you’re traveling with kids, just ask the staff and they’ll happily provide children’s tableware so you can share dishes — super convenient for families!

Recommended Menu Items

Here’s a look at the menu:
Four Seasons Tempura Set Meal — 780 yen
Sunglasses Special Set Meal — 1,650 yen
Shrimp Lover’s Set Meal — 1,000 yen
Whole Conger Eel Tendon — 1,050 yen
Vegetable Tendon — 680 yen
Fried Chicken Donburi — 680 yen
There’s a great variety of set meals and tempura rice bowls (tendon) to choose from!

The set meals come with free rice refills, making them perfect for hearty appetites.

You’ll also find à la carte tempura, udon noodles, and even a Kid’s Set for 300 yen!

I ordered the Four Seasons Tempura Set Meal — 780 yen!
First, the full set arrives at the table.

Among the side dishes was the very same ika no shiokara (salted squid) sold in the shop!

Then comes the magic — each piece of tempura is served fresh from the fryer, one after another!
It’s piping hot, with an unbelievably crispy batter that’s absolutely irresistible!

I also tried the Kitsune Udon — 450 yen!

It comes with a piece of fried tofu (aburaage) on the side, so you can add as much as you like to your noodles!

The udon also comes with the famous ika no shiokara, and let me tell you —
this salted squid is absolutely incredible!

The udon broth has a comforting, gentle flavor, and the kitsune tofu has soaked up so much of that umami-packed dashi that every bite bursts with savory goodness!

With reasonable prices and freshly fried tempura, this place is truly a gem!

If you’re visiting Yamaga, be sure to stop by — you won’t regret it!

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is current at the time of coverage. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.