Donbei commercials: A look back at the most memorable ads over the years
When you’re watching TV, those Donbei commercials really leave an impression with their unique worldbuilding and catchy phrases that draw you in, don’t they? With their distinctive direction, casting, and absurd humor, many people probably find themselves thinking, “It’s on again!” before they know it.
In this article, we’ll be showcasing a wide range of Donbei commercials.
From nostalgic classics to the recent spots that got everyone talking, we’ll share the appeal of each—so please enjoy.
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Donbei commercials: A look back at the most memorable ads through the years (1–10)
Nissin Foods Nissin Donbei “Yes, gladly — Tasting-Tasting Don” version
This commercial highlights the fact that the flavor of Donbei differs between eastern and western Japan, and aims to make viewers feel the uniqueness of this machine that lets you get Donbei varieties you normally couldn’t buy due to regional differences.
It also conveys the idea of not only the broth but the noodles being different too, inviting you to think about which you prefer.
The song that boosts the commercial’s lively mood is a parody of Kent-san’s “Hai Yorokonde.” Despite its strained-sounding lyrics, the brisk delivery is striking and helps build a sense of resolve to face challenges.
Nissin Foods Nissin Donbei “Unmatched Deliciousness: The Strongest Donbei” VersionYuriko Yoshitaka, Rikito Itagaki
This commercial highlights that the “Strongest Donbei” has an exceptional level of deliciousness, conveying its meticulous attention to detail.
Rikohito Itagaki appears as the Don Fox before Yuriko Yoshitaka and speaks powerfully about how it’s the strongest.
As they communicate Donbei’s supremacy, Yoshitaka-san slips in a question about how she herself measures up, and the response—“the best”—is particularly memorable.
The gentle back-and-forth develops in a heartwarming way, giving the whole piece a soft, kind feel.
Nissin Foods Nissin Donbei “Do you know DonPay?” editionDaisuke Miyagawa (Daisuke Miyagawa & Hanako)
Daisuke Miyagawa from the manzai duo “Miyagawa Daisuke & Hanako” dances in rhythm while holding the fried tofu from Donbei.
If it looks familiar, that’s because it’s a parody of the PayPay TV commercial featuring the comedian Daisuke Miyagawa—just one kanji character different.
Daisuke’s perfectly recreated dance rivals the original.
It’s “DonPay” instead of “PayPay.” And then his closing line: “By the way, what is cashless, anyway?” Hats off both to Nissin for the parody and to PayPay for approving the ad—bravo to both.
Donbei commercials: Introducing the most memorable ads through the years (11–20)
Nissin Foods Nissin Donbei “Morning Donbei might be a thing” versionYuriko Yoshitaka, Rikito Itagaki
This commercial promotes Donbei as a perfect breakfast option.
When Yuriko Yoshitaka says, “I don’t want to do anything this morning,” Rihito Itagaki agrees.
They introduce a survey showing that 90% of people said they’d like to eat Donbei in the morning.
Yoshitaka imagines how well a warm, dashi-rich Donbei would suit a cold morning, and it seems breakfast for the day is decided.
However, in a humorous twist, Itagaki realizes he forgot to bring the Donbei and goes to fetch it from the storage room.
Nissin Foods Nissin Donbei “Jealousy of Dongitsune” VersionGen Hoshino, Riho Yoshioka
Speaking of Nissin Donbei TV commercials, they feature Gen Hoshino and Riho Yoshioka as the “Don-Gitsune” duo.
In the new “Jealous Don-Gitsune” version, the Don-Gitsune—an embodiment of kitsune udon—glares jealously at Hoshino as he eats Donbei.
And no wonder: he’s not eating kitsune udon, but tempura soba.
Seeing him enjoy it so much, it’s only natural she’d get angry.
At the end of the commercial, you’ll also get a peek at the secret of the Don-Gitsune’s ears.
Nissin Foods Nissin Donbei “I want you to eat Donbei” versionYuriko Yoshitaka, Rikito Itagaki
In this commercial, the mascot character Dongitsune appears to someone who doesn’t usually eat Donbei and conveys her wish for them to try it.
Yuriko Yoshitaka is shown eating things like rice balls, and then Rihito Itagaki shows up, wistfully recommending Donbei.
Even though he eagerly pushes Donbei, she smoothly deflects him, which also reveals the dynamic between the two.
Yoshitaka’s composed demeanor and Itagaki’s rapidly shifting expressions leave a memorable contrast.
Nissin Foods Nissin Donbei “Everyone’s Dongitsune” VersionGen Hoshino, Riho Yoshioka, Kogaken, Kubo-ta from Tora Salmon
This is the Donbei TV commercial, “Everyone’s Dongitsune.” Hoshino Gen says, “I’m happy we can eat New Year’s soba together,” smiling at a “Dongitsune” played by Yoshioka Riho sitting right in front of him.
But in the next room, Toromaru Salmon’s Kubota, eating kitsune udon, is also facing a Dongitsune who smiles and says, “Nya.” Is Dongitsune a twin? A clone? The ending shots are eerie, showing people who seem to be monitoring Hoshino, Dongitsune, and Kubota across numerous screens.