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 “M-1 Victory Sale” VersionAir Stairs
This commercial promotes the M-1 Victory Sale, where you can get great deals on the Donbei noodle series, using a lively song and visuals.
The music playing is a parody of “Strong Wind All Back,” expressing reactions to the excitement of the M-1 Grand Prix.
The depiction of the comedy duo Kukai Kaidan recreating the original music video is striking, and the odd outfits and sudden changes in their expressions draw your attention.
By pairing the year’s hit song with the people who were popular that year, the ad comically looks back on what the year was like.
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 “Your ears don’t lie: East-West-North-South dashi comparison” versionKei Shindou, Rica Matsumoto
This is a commercial that conveys the appeal of Donbei Kitsune Udon through a gentle, soft-toned animation.
A Don-fox appears before a man who insists that all fox udon is the same, and reveals his hidden fondness for kitsune udon.
Even as he claims they’re all the same, the ears that unconsciously pop out say it all, cutely expressing the exhilaration brought by its delicious taste.
The gentle visuals leave an impression with expressive movements—smiles and bashful looks—that beautifully convey the mood.
Donbei commercials: Introducing the most memorable ads through the years (11–20)
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 “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 “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.
Nissin Donbei “New Year’s Eve Idol” VersionYoshino Nanjo
This commercial promotes the idea that you should enjoy the “Strongest Donbei” especially on New Year’s, using an animation that depicts an idol concert.
It starts with someone eating Donbei in their usual room and then unfolds into a lively concert venue, evoking a sense of rising excitement about the flavor.
Like the cheers for an idol, it also introduces the many appealing qualities packed into the Strongest Donbei, which really conveys the taste.
The wish for people to keep eating it in the coming year is expressed with a warm, inviting atmosphere.