If you’re planning a trip to Japan and have a love for ramen, get ready for the food adventure of a lifetime! Japan is a ramen lover’s paradise, with countless shops serving up bowls of piping hot, flavorful goodness. From tiny, hidden gems to world-famous establishments, each ramen shop has its own unique twist on this beloved dish.
At Otaku Ramen, we’re obsessed with everything ramen (obviously!), so we’ve rounded up some of the best ramen spots in Japan that you absolutely must visit.
A Taste of Japan’s Ramen Culture
Ramen isn’t just food in Japan—it’s a cultural experience. With over 32,000 ramen shops across the country, ramen has evolved from a humble street food to a culinary art form. There are four main types of ramen: Shoyu (soy sauce), Shio (salt), Miso (fermented soybean paste), and Tonkotsu (pork bone broth).
Whether you’re slurping noodles in a bustling train station or enjoying a quiet bowl in a cozy neighborhood shop, ramen is an essential part of the Japanese food journey.
Ready to dive in? Here are some of the top ramen spots to add to your itinerary!
Top Ramen Shops to Visit in Japan
1. Ramen Nagi (Tokyo)
If you’re looking for bold, creative ramen flavors, Ramen Nagi is the place to be. Nestled in the bustling streets of Shinjuku, Tokyo, Ramen Nagi is famous for its inventive approach to ramen, offering unique broths like Black King (squid ink) and Green King (basil and parmesan). Here, customization is key—you can choose your preferred richness, spiciness, and noodle texture, ensuring every bowl is just the way you like it.
Despite being open 24/7, you can expect a wait, as this place is wildly popular among locals and tourists alike. But trust us—it’s worth every slurp!
2. Mendokoro Honda (Akihabara)
For a truly artisanal ramen experience, head to Mendokoro Honda (Honda Tokyo Noodle Works). Located in Akihabara Station, this hidden gem is known for its meticulously crafted noodles, made fresh in-house daily. The Shoyu (soy sauce) ramen is a fan favorite, featuring a light yet flavorful broth that perfectly complements the springy noodles and tender chashu pork slices.
3. Nakiryu (Tokyo)
If you’re up for a Michelin-starred ramen experience, head to Nakiryu in Tokyo. This tiny, unassuming shop earned a Michelin star for its exquisite tantanmen—a spicy, sesame-based ramen inspired by Chinese dandan noodles. The delicate balance of flavors and silky broth is a game-changer.
Please note, they are a cash-only establishment and they don’t take reservations, so plan accordingly!
4. Sumire Ramen (Sapporo)
If you find yourself in Sapporo, you have to try the local specialty—Miso ramen! And there’s no better place than Sumire. Known for its rich, flavorful miso broth and slightly chewy noodles, this ramen will warm you up even on the coldest Hokkaido day. Topped with stir-fried vegetables and a slice of tender pork, it’s pure comfort in a bowl. Like Nakiryu, they also don’t accept reservations, so get there early!
5. Menya Itto (Tokyo)
If you’re curious about Tsukemen (dipping noodles), head to Menya Itto in Tokyo (a short walk from Shin Koiwa Station)! This ramen shop is famous for its rich, flavorful dipping broth made from chicken, seafood, and pork, paired with perfectly cooked, thick noodles. The dipping experience is unique and fun—just dip, slurp, and repeat! Service is cash-only.
6. Ramen Street at Tokyo Station (Tokyo)
Imagine an entire street dedicated to ramen—sounds like heaven, right? Welcome to Tokyo Ramen Street at Tokyo Station! This bustling corridor is home to eight of Tokyo’s best ramen shops, each offering its own signature style. From spicy miso ramen at Kikanbo to shoyu ramen at Rokurinsha, there’s something for every palate.
Pro tip: Go early or be prepared to wait—these spots are popular for a reason!
Why You Should Try Otaku Ramen in Nashville
We know, we know—you’re dreaming of Japan, but let’s not forget about the ramen gem right here in Nashville! At Otaku Ramen, we’re all about bringing Japanese-inspired flavors to the heart of Tennessee, but with a fun Nashville twist. Our founder, Sarah Gavigan, fell in love with ramen while living in Los Angeles and has been on a mission to perfect the craft ever since.
Our menu is inspired by ramen culture but infused with our own creative flair. From our creamy Tonkotsu ramen to our spicy Miso ramen, every bowl is crafted with love and passion.
Ready to Begin Your Ramen Adventure?
Ramen isn’t just food—it’s an experience, a comfort, and a journey all in one bowl. So whether you’re exploring the ramen scene in Japan or discovering the flavors at Otaku Ramen in Nashville, we invite you to slurp, smile, and repeat.
Ready to join the ramen revolution? We’ll see you at Otaku Ramen! Check out our menu, order online, or stop by for an unforgettable ramen experience. Who knew your ramen adventure could start right here in Nashville?