The Japanese film 'Tampopo' in 1986/7 lionized the Japanese noodle philosophy

Besides the overall image of a Japanese noodle shop, the consistency of food quality is the critical success factor for the Japanese noodles in penetrating the Hong Kong market. The Japanese have a fancy on noodles and have a serious attitude on trying to make the best noodle. This can be reflected in the film called 'Tampopo'. This is a comedy directed by Juzo Itami in 1986/7. The story is mainly on a Japanese noodle shopkeeper persistently pursuing ways to improve her noodle making technique. With the help of some amateur noodle gourmets, she had to first undergo a vigorous physical training program. Then they spied on local ramen shops in order to steal secret recipes from other chefs, and comparing the quality of service and decor. She slowly worked towards gaining confidence in herself, finding the correct balance in her food, and was finally able to make great noodles.
Although the story was a bit outrageous and the characters are exaggerated in order to be humorous.

This film revealed very much the mentality of typical Japanese. They take research seriously, and are keen on meticulous observation and detail. This kind of enthusiasm and persistency enabled them continuously to develop new product to suit the ever-changing demand of the global market.