Legendary Noodle Picture Book "Udon vs. Ramen," Which Shook the Humor Picture Book World, Gets First Sequel in 10 Years!

Kodansha Ltd. will publish "Udon vs. Ramen: The Yakisoba Counterattack" (written by Riodai Tanaka) on July 1, 2026.

This work is the first sequel in 10 years to the picture book "Udon vs. Ramen," published in 2016.

In the previous work, udon and ramen, after a fierce battle over which was tastier, formed a strong bond. In the latest installment, the story begins with ramen, who fought yakisoba, asking udon for help.

The sight of his injured friend reignites udon's fighting spirit, and udon decides to fight yakisoba.

The battle for the No. 1 noodle, or "Numbermen," is about to begin!

While this series appears to be a nonsensical humor picture book at first glance, it actually hides a message of respect and diversity, acknowledging and celebrating each other's strengths. Please enjoy this hilarious story that will make both children and adults want to ask for seconds!

*Target age: 4 years old to general audience

Book cover image

Book cover image with obi

"Udon vs. Ramen: The Yakisoba Counterattack" Story

Udon, facing its ultimate assassin, is in a "noodle-y" predicament!?

The latest installment in the legendary noodle picture book series, 10 years in the making!

Udon and ramen engaged in a fierce battle over which was tastier.

After the fight, the two acknowledged each other's strengths and formed a strong bond, but one day, a wounded ramen visits udon.

The challenge letter that ramen carried read:

"I'm the number one noodle!"

The sight of his battered friend reignited udon's fighting spirit.

Can udon avenge ramen?

The battle for the No. 1 noodle, or "Numbermen," begins now!

What shocking ending will be revealed on the horizon of this deadly battle!?

The long-selling picture book "Udon vs. Ramen," which became an instant topic of conversation upon its release, now has a long-awaited new installment!

Standing in the way of udon and ramen is, surprisingly, yakisoba!

Who will win the title of the strongest noodle champion!

Will it finally be decided, or not!?

This is the latest installment in a hilarious humor picture book that pursues "deliciousness" to the very core.

Author Riodai Tanaka Profile

Born in Tokyo. Manga artist and illustrator. A man who loves udon, ramen, and yakisoba equally, but his true favorite is somen. His works include illustrations for the "Nichiyobi" series (written by Shiiko Murakami, Kodansha), the "Otonosama" series (written by Hirotaka Nakagawa, Kosei Publishing Co.), picture books such as the "Shogakko e Iko" series (written by Hiroshi Saito) and "Onigirizukan: Mezase! Onigiri Master" (written by Hiroyuki Arai, Riodai Tanaka, Yutaka Nakagaki), "Udon vs. Ramen" (all by Kodansha), and "Ramen ga Suki Sugite" (written by Satoshin, Gakken). His manga includes "Cookie Can no Machi Meguri" (Seirin Kogeisha).

Riodai Tanaka

A Novel Development That Goes Above and Beyond!

The story, full of points to comment on, will captivate everyone from children to adults! It's sure to be a big hit at story times for elementary school students.

Book Information

・Author: Riodai Tanaka

・Release Date: July 1, 2026 (Wed)

・Price: 1,540 yen (tax included)

・Pages: 32 pages

Special website: https://cocreco.kodansha.co.jp/special/book_udonramen