Introducing Mashin

Hello, travelers! This is Gachako, a writer for [Sarukuma].

Today I’m taking you to Yaguro-cho in Hitoyoshi City, to a wonderful local spot called
[Mashin].

This restaurant is famous for its incredibly delicious gyoza (Japanese pan-fried dumplings) and champon (a hearty noodle soup).

You’ll arrive after climbing a steep slope along the scenic Kuma River.

The parking lot is on the right-hand side once you reach the top of the hill.

I arrived just after 1 p.m., and the parking lot was already packed with cars.
Looks like there might be a wait…

Write your name down at the entrance and relax in the front garden while you wait.
The building looks just like a regular Japanese home.
You’ll take off your shoes at the entrance before stepping inside — a charming traditional touch.

Inside, there are six low traditional tatami-style tables (called “ozashiki”).
We noticed many families with young children dining here.

They provide kids’ chairs as well as
adult-friendly chairs that make sitting on tatami much more comfortable for those not used to kneeling.

This is a place where children are truly welcome.

Here’s a peek at the menu:

Champon (noodle soup)　　　　900 yen
Pan-fried gyoza (7 pieces)　500 yen
Onigiri rice balls (2 pieces)　200 yen
White rice　　　　　　150 yen

…and more. Gyoza paired with an ice-cold beer 🍻 is a classic combination you won’t want to miss.

Recommended Dishes at Mashin

We ordered three servings of gyoza.
Even at first glance, you can tell the wrappers are incredibly crispy!

The gyoza are filled with Chinese chives, cabbage, and pork —
but no garlic is mixed into the filling.
Garlic is served on the side, so if you love it, feel free to
stir some into the dipping sauce or add it directly to your gyoza!

Even without garlic, these dumplings are wonderfully satisfying and full of flavor.
The wrappers are so crisp they almost feel shatteringly crunchy in your mouth — absolutely delicious.
You could keep eating them forever. I thought three servings might be too much… but they vanished in no time.
The steamed white rice disappears just as quickly!

We also ordered the champon for 900 yen.

It’s even more loaded with vegetables than expected!
Bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots, kikurage mushrooms, chikuwa fish cake, kamaboko fish cake, and more —
all in a rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, brimming with crisp, fresh vegetables.
A perfectly balanced, nutritious bowl.

They also provide a small plate and fork for kids,
so it’s easy to share with little ones. My child happily devoured every bite!

We also tried the chicken tataki (lightly seared chicken sashimi) for 900 yen.

Topped with plenty of fresh herbs and condiments —
it made me crave a beer… but I had to hold back!

My second son had fallen asleep and missed the meal, so we took some gyoza to go.
And let me tell you — they were just as delicious as takeout!

So, if you find yourself craving gyoza in Hitoyoshi, be sure to head over to
“Mashin”. You won’t regret it!

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is accurate as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours may change. Please check before your visit.