Soup and Spoon

I enjoy my soup better if I use a spoon instead directly drinking from the bowl. Is it rude to request for a spoon or bring my own spoon when eating in a traditional Japanese restaurant.

It will depends on the establishment, but real authentic Japanese restaurant may not be happy about it because the spoon (made of metal) could damage the bowl which is made of wood and Japanese laquer that is rather delicate and needs handle with care when washing them.

Because of the reason just mentioned by ., it might be better to request for a spoon, since the restaurant can provide a spoon of THEIR choice.

Otherwise, try to think that you're drinking tea that tastes like soup, and drink from the bowl ;)