Ramen is a beloved Japanese dish that has evolved into a culinary tradition. Each bowl represents regional ingredients, cooking methods, and rich history. For visitors to Japan, trying ramen is an essential experience. From the creamy richness of tonkotsu ramen to the light, savory broth of shoyu ramen, the variety of styles ensures there's something for every palate.
Ramen shops across the country showcase local specialties, making each bowl a unique journey into Japanese culture and flavors. Ramen can be enjoyed as a speedy snack or an entire meal and is something you must try while visiting Japan.
Top 10 Iconic Ramen in Japan
Below is a list of the top 10 most iconic ramen you should try when you are in Japan. Everyone has a different taste and experience.
Tonkotsu Ramen: The Rich and Flavorful Classic
Tonkatsu ramen, originating from Fukuoka, boasts a creamy, rich pork bone broth. The long-cooked broth imparts a rich, velvety texture, while straight, thin noodles absorb the taste. Finished with lean slices of pork, green onion, and boiled egg, tonkatsu ramen is full-bodied. Eateries throughout Fukuoka, such as Ippudo, serve the classic dish enjoyed for its bold flavors and hearty richness.
Shoyu Ramen: The Perfect Balance of Umami
Shoyu ramen, or the classic ramen, is characterized by a clear, savory broth composed of soy sauce and chicken stock. Together, these provide an excellent harmony of salty, sweet, and umami flavors. Shoyu ramen is usually served with curly noodles topped with chashu pork, bamboo shoots, and nori. Shoyu ramen in Tokyo restaurants such as Tsuta and Ramen Jiro tastes great in its simple yet mouthwatering flavor.
Miso Ramen: A Hearty and Robust Choice
Miso ramen, a Hokkaido original, mixes miso paste with chicken or pork broth for a rich, full-bodied broth. The dense soup is slightly salty and has a deep, complex taste. Garnished with ingredients such as corn, butter, and bean sprouts, miso ramen provides warmth and comfort. In Sapporo, renowned ramen restaurants such as Sumire serve this delectable bowl, making it the ideal dish for winter months and those who seek a comforting, rich meal.
Shio Ramen: A Delicate and Light Option
Shio ramen features a light, clear broth made from chicken or fish stock and sea salt. This delicate soup offers subtle, refined flavors, allowing the toppings to shine. It pairs well with thin, straight noodles and simple toppings like bamboo shoots, green onions, and chashu pork. In Kyoto, ramen shops like Ganko Ramen and Ramen Sen no Kaze offer this fresh, clean take on ramen, perfect for those who enjoy lighter, less rich options.
Tsukemen: The Dipping Ramen Experience
Tsukemen is a unique ramen style where cold noodles are served separately from the hot, concentrated broth. This dipping ramen allows you to enjoy the contrast of temperatures and textures as you dip noodles into the rich, flavorful soup. Often served with thick, chewy noodles, tsukemen is known for its strong, bold broth. In Tokyo, famous spots like Rokurinsha serve memorable bowls, giving you an unforgettable ramen experience.
Hakata Ramen: A Tonkotsu Twist from Fukuoka
Hakata ramen, a regional variation of tonkotsu ramen, features a rich, creamy pork bone broth and thinner noodles. The broth is intensely flavorful, while the toppings, including spicy seasonings and pickled mustard greens, enhance the dish. This ramen style is widely popular in Fukuoka, with local favorites like Ichiryu offering bowls full of rich flavor. Hakata ramen’s unique twist on tonkotsu makes it a must-try for ramen enthusiasts.
Hiyashi Chuka: Cold Ramen for Summer Days
Hiyashi chuka is a refreshing cold ramen dish perfect for summer. The noodles are served chilled, and a tangy, vinegary dressing replaces the broth. Toppings typically include cucumber, ham, egg, and tomatoes, offering a light and refreshing flavor. Ideal for hot weather, hiyashi chuka provides a cool, satisfying meal. Available in summer at ramen shops across Japan, it’s a perfect option when you're craving something lighter and less heavy.
Sapporo Ramen: The Rich Northern Specialty
Sapporo ramen is known for its hearty, rich broth made with miso, soy sauce, or salt. It often includes thick, curly noodles that complement the bold soup. Common toppings like corn, butter, and vegetables make Sapporo ramen filling and satisfying. In Sapporo, iconic ramen shops like Misono and Ebisoba Ichigen serve this regional specialty, offering a warm, hearty bowl that’s perfect for colder weather and full of delicious northern flavors.
Kyushu Ramen: Unique Regional Flavors
Kyushu ramen stands out with its distinct pork bone broth, often enhanced by garlic oil and black pepper. This regional style is a variation of tonkotsu ramen, but the unique seasonings make it stand out. Known for its depth of flavor, Kyushu ramen is especially popular in cities like Kagoshima and Nagasaki. Local shops craft delicious bowls, providing a one-of-a-kind ramen experience with each rich, savory spoonful.
Ramen with Extra Toppings: A Customizable Ramen Experience
Many ramen shops in Japan allow customers to personalize their bowls with extra toppings. These include boiled eggs, extra slices of pork, spicy seasonings, or vegetables. The addition of chili paste, sweet corn, or bamboo shoots lets you customize the flavors and enhance the ramen to suit your preferences. In cities like Tokyo and Osaka, ramen spots feature a wide range of toppings, ensuring each bowl can be uniquely tailored to your taste.
Conclusion
Japan’s ramen scene offers an exciting array of flavors and styles, from the rich tonkotsu ramen of Fukuoka to the light shio ramen of Kyoto. Each region’s unique take on ramen, whether it’s the miso-based bowls from Hokkaido or the customizable options in Tokyo, makes the country a must-visit for ramen lovers. So, whether you’re after something hearty or light, there’s a perfect bowl waiting for you in Japan, offering an unforgettable culinary experience.
