[konbini]

In Japan rice is the staple food often eaten up to 3 times a day. However, noodles (soba,ramen,udon,somen) are also popular especially in soups.

In Tokyo I stayed at a hostel in Asakusa and would sometimes eat noodle soup for breakfast. In most other places I did not find noodle shops open before 11 am. I also saw noodle shops open in the morning at Tsukiji, Imamiya (Osaka) and some 24 hour chains that had noodles on the menu.

A Japanese friend seemed nearly shocked that I or anyone would eat noodles for breakfast, and I don't know why.
Is it uncommon to do so?

I am interested to know if anyone could provide further information.