Noodle (Udon) from Japan
The vast majority of you have eaten noodle or in Japanese language can be generaly translated as ‘Udon’ (read as: udong). This cultural shock of enjoying udong I got it when I came into Japan in 2004 and 2005 until now.
I am a noodle-lover. In Japan when I am eating udon I cannot simply imitate how they (Japanese people) are eating it. For one reason, I went to Nagoya University Cafetaria or ’shokudo’ in Japanese. I ordered a bowl of udon and then took a seat and enjoy it. Many students also anjoy their lunch. When I was eating I heard some noisy sound ’srutttttttttttttt’. I was surprised on what I heard. What’s that. Two people were eating udon. They were eating with noisy sound.
In many countries, including Indonesia, having noisy sound when eating or enjoying food is a rude habit. But not in Japan. The noisy sound is simply to show that we enjoy the food and give respect and honour to people who have cooked or served for us.
On the other day, I tried to make a sound when I was eating just to imitate the Japanese style, but it was difficult. and it is difficult until today time. You can try it if you want.
