Japan is home to a wide variety of ramen, each offering distinct regional flavors and innovative twists on the traditional noodle soup. Whether you prefer rich, creamy broths or lighter, citrus-infused options, these four ramen restaurants highlight the variety and innovation in Japan’s ramen culture. Be sure to add these stops to your food itinerary!
Table of Contents
- 1. Ginza Kagari: Chicken Ramen
- 2. Ajisai Ramen: Salt Ramen
- 3. AFURI: Citrus-Infused Ramen
- 4. Mutekiya: Pork Ramen
- Why These Ramen Shops Are a Must-Try
- Conclusion
1. Ginza Kagari: Tokyo’s Elevated Chicken Ramen
In the heart of Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district, Ginza Kagari offers a refined take on ramen. While Tokyo is known for Shoyu Ramen (soy sauce-based), Kagari specializes in Tori Paitan Ramen, featuring a creamy chicken broth that’s rich and flavorful. The broth is simmered for hours, resulting in a silky texture and deep flavor. This ramen is garnished with seasonal vegetables and perfectly chewy noodles, creating a luxurious dining experience.
Store Information: In addition to their flagship store in Ginza, Kagari has expanded with branches in Narita Airport, Sapporo, Kobe, Osaka, and several other locations across Tokyo. For more details, visit their Instagram page.
Finding detailed store information can be challenging; a helpful tip is to search their Instagram followers using the keyword ‘kagari’—this often reveals their various branch accounts.
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2. Ajisai Ramen: Signature Shio Ramen
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is famous for its hearty and flavorful ramen. While many know Hokkaido for its Miso Ramen, Ajisai Ramen specializes in Shio Ramen (salt ramen), which uses a clear, salt-based broth. This ramen is light yet full of flavor, making it a refreshing option in contrast to the region's richer offerings.
Although Ajisai is known for its Shio Ramen, their Miso Ramen is a perfect balance of savory miso broth, rich in umami, and tender, springy noodles. Topped with vegetables, minced pork, and a slice of tender chashu (pork), it’s a bowl that leaves a lasting impression.
Store Information: Ajisai’s popularity has led to locations in New Chitose Airport, Hakodate, Sapporo, and Okinawa. Check their menu at the official Ajisai website.
3. AFURI: Refreshing, Light, and Citrus-Infused Ramen
AFURI takes a modern approach to ramen with its signature Yuzu Shio Ramen, which infuses a light chicken broth with the fragrant citrus flavor of yuzu. The bright, tangy flavor of yuzu paired with the clear, savory chicken broth creates a light and aromatic dish that’s perfect for those seeking a more delicate ramen experience. AFURI takes a modern approach to ramen, offering a variety of healthy options that appeal to a wide audience. Their menu features vegan and gluten-free ramen bowls, making it an accessible choice for everyone.
Store Information: AFURI has numerous locations, including branches in Niseko, Tokyo, and Yokohama. Explore more on their official website.
4. Mutekiya: Rich and Bold Tonkotsu Ramen
If you’re a fan of rich, pork-based broths, look no further than Mutekiya in Ikebukuro, Tokyo. Known for its long queues and hearty portions, Mutekiya serves up Tonkotsu Ramen (pork bone broth), a style originating from Fukuoka in southern Japan. Their Tokusei Chashu Ramen features a thick, flavorful broth that’s been simmered for hours, resulting in a creamy, velvety texture. Topped with generous slices of melt-in-your-mouth chashu pork, this ramen is a satisfying and indulgent treat. If you're visiting, prepare to wait in line, but rest assured—the experience is worth every minute.
Store Information: Mutekiya operates from a single location in Ikebukuro, Tokyo. For menu details, visit the Mutekiya website.
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Why These Ramen Shops Are a Must-Try
Each of these ramen shops showcases the unique flavors of Japan’s diverse regions. Whether it’s the creamy chicken broth from Tokyo’s Ginza Kagari, the delicate Shio Ramen from Hokkaido’s Ajisai Ramen, the refreshing yuzu notes of AFURI, or the bold tonkotsu richness from Ikebukuro’s Mutekiya, these restaurants offer a taste of Japan’s rich ramen culture. Their innovative approaches and mastery of traditional techniques make them standout representatives of Japanese ramen.
Conclusion: Plan Your Ramen Adventure in Japan
No trip to Japan is complete without exploring the country’s diverse ramen offerings. From Tokyo’s elegant ramen at Ginza Kagari to Hokkaido’s famed Ajisai Ramen, and from the modern flavors of AFURI to the hearty comfort of Mutekiya, these restaurants are perfect stops for any ramen enthusiast. Be sure to check their locations and menus before visiting!
