Discover the best ramen in Japan’s three major cities—Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—based on my personal favorites. From rich tonkotsu to delicate shoyu, I’ll share must-visit spots, pricing, locations, and how to order for an unforgettable ramen experience.
These are our favorite ramen shops that we’ve personally tried in Japan’s three major cities—Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. From rich and creamy to light and flavorful, discover must-visit spots, pricing, locations, and how to order for an unforgettable ramen experience.
Tokyo, Japan
Ramen Hayashi
Located a couple minutes walk from Shibuya station, this store has people flocking from all over the world to try their signature bowl of delicious ramen.
Operating Hours and Menu
Ramen Hayashi opens its doors at 11:30 AM and serving until 3:30 PM, or until the broth runs out. It’s important to note that the shop remains closed on Sundays, Wednesdays and public holidays.
The menu is straightforward, offering three primary options:
- Ramen: The classic bowl priced at ¥800.
- Ajitama Ramen: Includes a perfectly soft-boiled seasoned egg, available for ¥900.
- Yakibuta Ramen: Features extra slices of tender roasted pork char siu, costing ¥1,100.
The Dining Experience
Upon arrival, patrons often find a queue forming before the shop even opens—a testament to its popularity. It’s advisable to arrive early to minimize waiting time. Once inside, customers purchase meal tickets from a vending machine, a common practice in many Japanese eateries. The seating is limited to a counter facing the open kitchen, allowing diners to observe the meticulous preparation of each bowl.
The Signature Bowl
Ramen Hayashi is renowned for its harmonious blend of flavors. The broth is a delicate fusion of rich pork bone (tonkotsu) and seafood (gyokai) flavors, resulting in a creamy yet light soup. This combination offers a profound umami taste without overwhelming the palate. The noodles are thin, yellow, and cooked to an al dente perfection, providing a satisfying bite. Toppings include a slice of tender roasted char siu, homemade menma (bamboo shoots), chopped green onions, and a sheet of dried seaweed. A hint of yuzu citrus adds a refreshing note, balancing the broth’s richness.
Etiquette and Tips
Prompt Seating: After purchasing your ticket, take your seat promptly to maintain the flow of service.
Efficient Dining: Given the limited seating and constant demand, it’s courteous to enjoy your meal without prolonged delays, allowing others the opportunity to dine.
When to arrive
Ramen Hayashi is a popular spot, so expect a lineup, especially during peak lunch hours. The shop opens at 11:30 AM, and since they only serve a limited amount of broth each day, it’s best to arrive at least 15–30 minutes before opening to secure a seat. If you come later in the afternoon, there’s a chance they might sell out before closing at 3:30 PM. With only ten counter seats, turnover is relatively quick, but the wait can still range from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time and day.
In Conclusion
Ramen Hayashi offers an authentic and memorable ramen experience in the heart of Shibuya. Its dedication to quality and consistency makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking to indulge in one of Tokyo’s finest bowls of ramen.
Kyoto, Japan
Ramen Sen No Kaze
Tucked away in the heart of Kyoto, Ramen Sen No Kaze has earned a reputation as one of the city’s top ramen spots. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a dedication to high-quality ingredients, this cozy shop has become a must-visit for ramen lovers.
Operating Hours and Menu
Ramen Sen No Kaze operates from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM for lunch and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM for dinner, making it a great choice for both midday and evening meals. The shop is closed on Tuesdays, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
Their menu features a variety of options, catering to different tastes:
- Original Ramen – A well-balanced bowl with a flavorful pork-based broth. ¥880
- Thick Broth Ramen – A richer, creamier version for those who love bold flavors. ¥980
- Soy Sauce Ramen – A classic Kyoto-style shoyu ramen with deep umami. ¥880
- Spicy Ramen – A fiery twist on their signature broth. ¥980
- Chashu Ramen – Comes with extra slices of tender, slow-cooked pork. ¥1,080
The Dining Experience
When we visited Ramen Sen No Kaze, our group of four was lucky enough to snag the only booth tucked away in the back, making for a comfortable and private dining experience. The rest of the restaurant is small and intimate, with limited seating that maintains a cozy and personal atmosphere.
Due to its popularity, there’s usually a line forming outside before the shop even opens. Unlike many ramen spots in Japan, there is no ticket vending machine here—guests order directly from the friendly staff, adding a more personal touch to the experience.
Once seated, you can watch the chefs meticulously prepare each bowl, ensuring that every ingredient is placed with precision. The service is warm and efficient, making the entire meal smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
The Signature Bowl
Ramen Sen No Kaze is known for its thick, creamy tonkotsu broth, simmered for hours to create a deep, savory flavor. The noodles are slightly thicker, providing a satisfying bite that complements the richness of the soup.
The bowl comes topped with melt-in-your-mouth chashu pork, seasoned bamboo shoots, fresh green onions, and a perfectly soft-boiled egg. For an extra layer of depth, a hint of garlic oil enhances the umami, making every spoonful unforgettable.
If you love a rich, comforting bowl of ramen, the Thick Broth Ramen is the standout choice.
Etiquette and Tips
Arrive early – Lines can get long, especially during peak lunch and dinner hours. Arriving 30 minutes before opening is recommended.
Cash only – The shop does not accept credit cards, so bring yen.
Efficient dining – Given the shop’s small size, it’s best to enjoy your meal and make room for the next guests.
When to Arrive
Since Ramen Sen No Kaze is highly rated and centrally located, the wait time can be anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour during peak periods. The best time to visit is either right when they open or later in the evening after the dinner rush.
The Conclusion
Ramen Sen No Kaze offers an exceptional ramen experience in Kyoto, combining a welcoming atmosphere with high-quality ingredients and deep, flavorful broth. Whether you’re a fan of classic shoyu or prefer a creamy tonkotsu, this spot is worth adding to your Kyoto food itinerary.
Osaka, Japan
Menya Joroku
Hidden in the bustling streets of Osaka, Menya Jouroku is a must-visit for ramen lovers looking for a unique and flavorful bowl. Known for its refined take on chicken-based broth, this shop has gained a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. If you’re looking for something beyond the typical tonkotsu or shoyu ramen, this spot delivers a standout experience.
Operating Hours and Menu
Menya Jouroku is open from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM for lunch and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM for dinner, making it a great option for both afternoon and evening cravings. It’s closed on Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
The menu is focused, featuring a small selection of well-crafted bowls:
- Shoyu Ramen – A light yet deeply flavorful soy sauce-based broth. ¥900
- Shio Ramen – A delicate salt-based ramen with a clear, refined broth. ¥900
- Special Ramen – Comes with extra toppings, including more chashu and a seasoned egg. ¥1,200
- Tsukemen – Thick, chewy noodles served separately with a rich dipping broth. ¥1,000
The Dining Experience
Upon arrival, it’s common to see a small line forming outside—this place is popular, but the wait is worth it. The shop itself is compact and intimate, featuring a simple yet inviting interior with counter seating that allows guests to watch the chefs at work.
Unlike many ramen spots in Japan, Menya Jouroku does not use a ticket vending machine—you order directly from the staff, making for a more personal and interactive experience.
The moment you sit down, you can feel the care and attention that goes into every bowl. The chefs meticulously craft each dish, ensuring every element is perfectly placed before serving. The atmosphere is quiet and focused, ideal for those who truly want to savor their ramen.
The Signature Bowl
Menya Jouroku is best known for its chicken-based shoyu ramen, which offers a lighter yet incredibly rich broth. The soup is made using high-quality local chicken, simmered for hours to extract deep umami flavors while maintaining a clear, golden appearance.
The noodles are thin and firm, complementing the delicate broth perfectly. Toppings include tender chashu pork, bamboo shoots, finely chopped green onions, and a perfectly cooked ajitama (seasoned egg). The combination results in a smooth, balanced, and deeply satisfying bowl that highlights the natural sweetness of the broth without overwhelming the palate.
For those who enjoy a thicker noodle and more intense flavor, the tsukemen is another excellent option. The dipping broth is bold and concentrated, coating the noodles beautifully for an extra indulgent bite.
Etiquette and Tips
Arrive early – The shop is small, and seats fill up fast. Arriving 15–30 minutes before peak lunch or dinner hours is recommended.
Cash only – Be sure to bring yen, as credit cards are not accepted.
Enjoy efficiently – Given the limited seating, it’s courteous to enjoy your meal and allow others a chance to dine.
When to Arrive
Menya Jouroku’s popularity means there’s often a short wait, especially during lunch and dinner rushes. The good news is that the shop has about a dozen chairs inside that act as a queue, so even if there’s a line outside, you may still be able to get inside relatively quickly. If you want to minimize waiting time, it’s best to arrive right when they open or during the mid-afternoon lull between meal times. The turnover is fairly efficient, but depending on the crowd, expect to wait anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes before getting your bowl.
Conclusion
Menya Jouroku is a hidden ramen gem in Osaka, offering a refreshing take on traditional flavors with its expertly crafted chicken-based broth. If you’re in the mood for something different from the usual pork-heavy ramen, this shop is a must-try. The combination of delicate yet flavorful broth, high-quality toppings, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it an unforgettable ramen experience.
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