Yaki-udon are thick, smooth, white Japanese noodles eaten with a special sauce, meat and vegetables. It is simple to make and a popular dish in Japan. The origin of udon in Japan is credited a Buddhist priest, who travelled to China around the beginning of the 9th century to study Buddhism. When he returned, he also brought back the knowledge of udon soup to his farmer neighbours in Japan. So, it's not all about sushi!!!