Tokyo, the Ultimate Destination for Ramen Lovers
When it comes to unforgettable food experiences in Japan, few dishes are as iconic or as deeply satisfying as a steaming bowl of ramen. It holds a special place in Japanese culture. It is more than just a quick meal; it is a culinary tradition shaped by regional flavors, time-honored techniques, and constant innovation.
Each variety of ramen tells a story, whether it is the bold richness of tonkotsu, or the delicate balance of shoyu. And there is no better place to enjoy all the flavors ramen has to offer than Tokyo, widely considered the ramen capital of the world.
With thousands of ramen shops scattered across the city, from humble street stalls to Michelin-starred establishments, Tokyo offers endless opportunities to discover your perfect bowl.
In this guide, we will explore the most popular types of ramen you can find in Tokyo and highlight the city’s most famous ramen shops worth visiting. Whether you are a first-time traveler or a seasoned foodie, this list will help you navigate Tokyo’s vibrant ramen scene like a local.
A History of Ramen in Tokyo
Ramen as we know it today has its roots in southern Chinese-style cut noodles, which were introduced to Japan in the late 19th century. Tokyo played a key role in popularizing this now-iconic dish. In fact, Japan’s first recorded ramen shop, Rairaiken, opened in 1910 in the Asakusa district of Tokyo. The shop served a soy sauce-based noodle soup inspired by Chinese cuisine, and it quickly gained popularity among locals. This marked the beginning of ramen’s transformation into a uniquely Japanese comfort food.
During the post-war period, ramen gained massive popularity as an affordable and filling street food for workers and students. Small ramen stalls began popping up across Tokyo, offering quick and flavorful meals to feed the city’s growing population. Over time, local chefs began experimenting with ingredients, leading to the creation of regionally unique styles, most notably Tokyo-style shoyu ramen.
What sets Tokyo’s ramen scene apart is its constant innovation combined with a deep respect for tradition. From the classic soy sauce-based bowls served in family-run shops to high-end gourmet versions of tonkotsu or miso ramen, ramen in Tokyo continues to evolve.
Now that you know how ramen found its roots in Tokyo, let’s take a closer look at the most popular types you can enjoy across the city today.
Want to learn more about ramen? Check out the official Japan tourism website for more.
Popular Ramen Varieties Shoyu Ramen (Soy Sauce)
Shoyu ramen is one of the most traditional and widely enjoyed ramen varieties in Tokyo. The word shoyu means soy sauce, which forms the base of the broth and gives the dish its signature dark, clear appearance and rich, savory flavor. Typically made with a chicken or pork-based stock, the broth is seasoned with a soy sauce tare that adds depth, umami, and a slightly salty kick without overpowering the other ingredients.
This variety originated in Tokyo, making it a true local classic. It’s often served with thin, curly noodles and topped with familiar ingredients like sliced chashu (braised pork), menma (fermented bamboo shoots), nori (seaweed), green onions, and a soft-boiled egg. Shoyu ramen strikes a perfect balance as it is lighter than creamy tonkotsu but still incredibly satisfying. Its clean, flavorful broth and historical roots make it a must-try for anyone exploring Tokyo’s ramen scene.
Shio Ramen (Salt)
Shio ramen, or salt-based ramen, is one of the oldest and most traditional styles of ramen you can find in Tokyo.
Known for its light, clear broth, shio ramen typically features a delicate balance of flavors that highlight the natural umami of ingredients like chicken, seafood, and vegetables. The broth is seasoned primarily with salt rather than heavier sauces, resulting in a cleaner and more refined taste. Topped with tender slices of chashu pork, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg, this ramen is a favorite for those who prefer a lighter yet deeply flavorful bowl.
In Tokyo, shio ramen is often celebrated for its simplicity and elegance. Many renowned ramen shops across neighborhoods like Shinjuku and Nakameguro specialize in this style, perfecting their recipes over years of craftsmanship.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned ramen enthusiast, trying a bowl of shio ramen offers a glimpse into the heart of Japanese culinary tradition.
Miso Ramen
Miso ramen is a rich and hearty style that originated in Hokkaido but has become a beloved option at many ramen shops throughout Tokyo. Its broth is made by blending miso paste (fermented soybean paste) with a base of pork or chicken stock, creating a savory, slightly sweet flavor with deep umami.
The texture is typically thicker and creamier than shio or shoyu ramen, making it especially satisfying during colder months. Toppings often include ground pork, corn, butter, bean sprouts, and garlic, which complement the boldness of the miso broth.
In Tokyo, miso ramen is a favorite for those seeking a comforting and filling meal with bold character. Ramen shops that specialize in this style often bring regional variations from Sapporo or Asahikawa, giving diners a taste of northern Japan without leaving the city.
Tonkotsu Ramen (Pork Bone Broth)
Tonkotsu ramen is a rich and creamy style that originates from Fukuoka in southern Japan but has become a staple at many Tokyo ramen shops. Its signature broth is made by boiling pork bones for hours until they break down and release collagen, resulting in a thick, milky soup packed with savory depth.
The intense flavor and silky texture of the broth make tonkotsu ramen a favorite among those who enjoy a more indulgent and deeply satisfying bowl. It is typically served with thin, straight noodles and topped with chashu pork, green onions, a hardboiled egg, and sometimes a drizzle of fragrant garlic oil.
In Tokyo, tonkotsu ramen has been embraced and reimagined by many acclaimed ramen chefs, often blending traditional techniques with modern twists. You will find variations that range from classic Hakata-style to versions with spicy or black garlic-infused broths. Its bold flavor and comforting richness make it a go-to choice for ramen lovers looking for a deeply warming and flavorful experience.
Tsukemen (Dipping Ramen)
Tsukemen, or dipping ramen, offers a unique twist on traditional ramen. Instead of serving the noodles in broth, tsukemen presents them separately. This allows diners to dip cold or room-temperature noodles into a rich, concentrated dipping sauce. The broth is typically thicker and more intense than standard ramen, and is often made from pork, chicken, fish, or a combination of all three. This method highlights the texture of the noodles and lets you control the flavor balance with each bite.
In Tokyo, tsukemen is especially popular during summer, though it’s enjoyed year-round by ramen enthusiasts. Many top ramen shops specialize exclusively in tsukemen They offer house-made noodles with perfect chew and dipping sauces simmered for hours to create deep umami.
Common toppings include a seasoned boiled egg, chashu, nori seaweed, and menma, which are all usually served on the side or in the dipping bowl. With its bold flavors and interactive style, tsukemen offers a distinct and memorable ramen experience that continues to grow in popularity.
Vegan and Vegetarian Ramen
Vegan and vegetarian ramen options in Tokyo have grown significantly in recent years, reflecting a broader shift toward plant-based dining in the city. While traditional ramen is typically made with pork, chicken, or fish-based broths, a few ramen shops now offer vegetarian versions that are just as rich and flavorful. These broths are often crafted from kombu (kelp), shiitake mushrooms, miso, soy milk, and other umami-packed ingredients, creating deep, satisfying flavors without the use of animal products.
Toppings usually include seasonal vegetables, tofu, corn, bamboo shoots, and sometimes vegan chashu made from soy or seitan.
Famous Ramen Shops in Tokyo You Must Try
If you’re searching for the best ramen in Tokyo, this section is your ultimate guide. Tokyo is filled with famous ramen shops that serve everything from traditional favorites to creative, modern styles.
Whether you’re craving a rich bowl of tonkotsu, a light and clear shio broth, or a plant-based alternative, the city offers a wide variety of popular ramen varieties to satisfy every taste.
In this section, we introduce the famous ramen shops Tokyo is known for, featuring spots that consistently earn top reviews and attract both locals and visitors. Get ready to discover where to enjoy some of the most unforgettable ramen in Japan.
Ichiran Ramen
Ichiran Ramen is one of the most famous ramen chains in Japan and a must-try for anyone seeking the best ramen in Tokyo.
Known for its signature tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, Ichiran offers a rich, creamy flavor that is both satisfying and deeply savory.
What sets Ichiran apart is its unique solo dining booths, designed to let customers fully focus on the taste without distractions. Each guest customizes their bowl by selecting noodle firmness, spice level, and additional toppings, making every visit a personalized experience.
With multiple locations across Tokyo, Ichiran is easily accessible and consistently delivers high-quality ramen that appeals to both first-time visitors and long-time fans. Whether you’re exploring Shibuya, Shinjuku, or Asakusa, you’re likely to find an Ichiran nearby.
Its 24-hour locations also make it a popular late-night stop for travelers and locals alike. If you’re looking for a classic tonkotsu ramen experience with a modern twist, Ichiran is a reliable and flavorful choice.
Ramen Style: Tonkotsu
Neighborhood: Many locations throughout Japan
Google Maps Links: Ichiran in Shibuya , Ichiran in Shinjuku , Ichiran in Asakusa
Want to learn more about Ichiran? Check out their website HERE.
Ippudo
Founded in Fukuoka in 1985, Ippudo is now one of Japan’s most celebrated ramen chains, renowned for its silky tonkotsu broth and expertly crafted ultra‑thin noodles. The signature ramen, the Shiromaru Classic, delivers a mellow, creamy pork bone soup, while the Akamaru Modern ramen adds layers of garlic oil and miso paste for added depth. They even have a vegetarian version of the Akamaru available.
There’s something for everyone here, and with over 28 locations in Tokyo, including popular branches in Ginza and Shinjuku, Ippudo is a must for those wanting to try ramen!
Ramen Style: Hakata-style Tonkotsu Ramen
Neighborhood: Many locations throughout Japan
Google Maps Links: Ippudo in Ginza , Ippudo in Shinjuku
Want to learn more about Ippudo? Check out their website HERE.
Nakiryu
Nakiryu in Toshima is one of Tokyo’s most famous ramen shops, earning a Michelin star for its signature tantanmen, which is a Japanese-style spicy sesame noodle dish. The broth is rich and complex, blending sesame, chili oil, and vinegar for a perfectly balanced bowl.
Despite the Michelin status, a bowl costs under ¥1,000, making it one of the world’s most affordable Michelin-star meals. Expect long lines, especially at lunch, but the quick service and unforgettable flavor make Nakiryu well worth the wait. This is a must-go for those who like spicy ramen!
Ramen Style: Tantanmen (Michelin-starred)
Neighborhood: Otsuka
Google Maps Link: Visit Nakiryu in Toshima, Tokyo!
Tsuta
Tsuta in Yoyogi-Uehara made history as the first ramen shop to earn a Michelin star. It is known for its elegant Shoyu Soba. The broth blends soy sauce, chicken, seafood, and black truffle oil, creating a rich, umami-packed experience.
Despite no longer having a Michelin star, Tsuta’s legacy of creative, chemical‑free ramen and international influence continues. Bowls typically start around ¥1,200, and premium truffle ramen options are available for those looking to splurge.
Ramen Style: Shoyu Ramen (Formerly Michelin-starred)
Neighborhood: Yoyogi-Uehara
Google Maps Link: Visit Tsuta in Yoyogi!
Afuri
Afuri is known for its signature Yuzu Shio and Yuzu Shoyu ramen. Yuzu is a Japanese citrus that tastes similar to a lemon. This ramen features a light, citrusy broth made from chicken, seafood dashi, and yuzu peel. The refreshing flavor, paired with charcoal-grilled chashu and thin whole-grain noodles, offers a modern, health-conscious take on ramen.
Both their Harajuku and Ebisu locations have a sleek, minimalist design and a user-friendly ordering system via vending machine. While peak hours can draw lines, service is fast and efficient, which makes Afuri a great stop for a quick yet high-quality bowl in central Tokyo.
Ramen Style: Yuzu Shio and Yuzu Shoyu Ramen
Neighborhood: Several locations throughout Tokyo
Google Maps Links: Afuri in Harajuku , Afuri in Ebisu
Visit their official website HERE.
Mutekiya
Established in 1994, Mutekiya has become a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists craving authentic, hearty ramen. They are renowned for its rich tonkotsu-shoyu broth, simmered for over 13 hours to develop deep, savory flavors. Their signature ramen features thick slices of tender chashu pork, a perfectly soft-boiled egg, and springy noodles that soak up the flavorful soup.
Located just a short walk from Ikebukuro Station, the shop stays open late, often attracting long lines during peak hours. Despite the wait, the fast, friendly service and consistently delicious bowls make it worth the visit any time of day or night!
Ramen Style: Tonkotsu Ramen
Neighborhood: Ikebukuro
Google Maps Link: Mutekiya in Ikebukuro
Ramen Jiro
Ramen Jiro is a legendary Tokyo ramen chain known for its massive portions and bold, hearty flavors. This spot is famous for thick, chewy noodles drenched in a rich, garlicky pork broth loaded with generous piles of pork belly, bean sprouts, and cabbage. Their intense and filling bowls have created a passionate fan base, making it a must-try for those craving a truly heavy and indulgent ramen experience.
Unlike more delicate ramen styles, Ramen Jiro offers a robust, no-frills meal perfect for hungry diners looking to satisfy big appetites. While the portions are enormous, the flavor balance of savory broth, fatty pork, and fresh vegetables keeps each bite exciting.
Ramen Style: BIG SIZED tonkotsu ramen
Neighborhood: Several in Tokyo
Google Maps Link: Ramen Jiro in Mita
Tips for Enjoying Ramen
Tokyo is a true ramen haven, but navigating the city’s bustling ramen scene can be easier and more rewarding with a few smart tips:
Avoid the Crowds
- Visit early (right at opening) or late (after the dinner rush) to skip long lines.
- Weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends, so plan accordingly.
- Popular ramen shops in neighborhoods like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro can fill up fast, so timing is key!
Master Ramen Shop Etiquette
- Most shops use vending machines at the entrance, so choose your ramen and pay before sitting down.
- Slurping is encouraged! It cools the noodles and shows appreciation for the flavor.
- Seating is limited, so be courteous! Finish your meal and leave promptly to free up space for others. Ramen shops are not the place to sit and chat.
Discover Hidden Ramen Gems
- Use apps like Tabelog and Google Maps to find top-rated and under-the-radar ramen spots.
- Follow Tokyo food bloggers on Instagram or YouTube for real-time recommendations and secret local favorites.
- Explore less touristy areas like Nakano, Kichijoji, or Koenji for some seriously delicious and authentic ramen experiences.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy a smoother, more authentic ramen adventure in Tokyo. Whether you’re chasing Michelin-starred bowls or diving into local hidden treasures, be sure to follow these tips!
Immersive Experiences for Ramen Lovers
For travelers who want more than just a taste of Japan’s iconic noodle dish, ramen museums offer an immersive, educational, and often interactive experience that goes beyond the bowl. Japan is home to several unique ramen-themed attractions, with the most popular being the Cup Noodles Museum in Osaka and Yokohama, and the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum.
Each museum tells a different part of Japan’s ramen story, making them must-visit spots for foodies and curious visitors alike. You may have to travel outside of Tokyo for these, but they are well worth it!
Cup Noodle Museum
Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda
Located in the birthplace of instant noodles, the Cup Noodles Museum in Osaka Ikeda celebrates the legacy of Momofuku Ando, the inventor of instant ramen. Visitors can explore the history of instant noodles through engaging exhibits and even step into a replica of the small shed where the first chicken ramen was created in 1958. A highlight for many is the “My CUPNOODLES Factory”, where guests can design their own cup and choose from a variety of soup bases and toppings to create a one-of-a-kind instant noodle experience.
Cup Noodles Museum Yokohama
The Cup Noodles Museum in Yokohama offers a similar experience but on a larger scale. In addition to the interactive exhibits and custom noodle factory, this location features hands-on workshops such as the Chicken Ramen Factory, where visitors can knead, stretch, and steam their own noodles from scratch. The museum also houses a global food court called the NOODLES BAZAAR, inspired by night markets from around the world, where visitors can sample noodle dishes from different cultures.
Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum
Often described as a “ramen theme park,” the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum is a nostalgic journey through Japan’s ramen evolution. Opened in 1994, this museum recreates a retro 1950s Tokyo streetscape complete with working ramen shops representing various regional styles from across Japan. It’s a great way to sample authentic ramen from places like Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Fukushima. In addition to slurping up bowls of ramen, visitors can explore a ramen gallery, attend live noodle-making demos, and even learn about ramen’s global expansion.
These museums aren’t just fun; they deepen your appreciation for the cultural significance and culinary creativity behind one of Japan’s most beloved comfort foods. Whether you’re in Osaka or Yokohama, these museums offer unforgettable and tasty experiences.
From traditional shoyu ramen in family-run shops to creative Michelin-starred bowls, Tokyo offers an unmatched experience for ramen lovers. Whether you’re after the deep richness of tonkotsu, the brightness of yuzu-infused broth, or the bold spice of tantanmen, the city delivers. With so many popular ramen varieties to choose from, exploring Tokyo’s ramen scene is not just about eating; it is about discovering the stories, regions, and innovations behind every bowl.
If you’re on a mission to find the best ramen in Tokyo, we hope this guide helped you find some of the many famous ramen shops Tokyo is known for. Whether you visit ramen museums, follow local tips, or chase down cult favorites like Ramen Jiro or Nakiryu, your perfect bowl is waiting in Japan’s ramen capital. Be sure to come hungry, stay curious, and slurp with appreciation because Tokyo is truly a paradise for ramen lovers.
Interested in learning about incredible sightseeing locations around Japan? Make sure to check out our other blog posts, such as our guide to the Nishiki Market, the history of Fushimi Inari, and an itinerary for 3 full days in Kyoto.
We also run food tours in Kyoto, Tokyo, and Osaka, so be sure to put those on your itinerary when you come to Japan!
