The Japanese passion for ramen is renowned worldwide. Whether in Tokyo, Kyoto, or smaller towns and villages, you’ll always find local "famous ramen shops" that residents take pride in. For tourists, however, experiencing the diverse regional flavors of ramen across Japan can be challenging. Fortunately, many of these popular ramen shops now offer instant versions of their signature dishes, allowing fans worldwide to enjoy authentic flavors at home. Let’s explore some of the top ramen products from Japan’s most popular shops:
1️. Nissin - Mōko Tanmen Nakamoto Spicy Miso
"Mōko Tanmen Nakamoto" is a well-known name in Japan's spicy ramen scene. Famous for its spicy miso ramen, it’s a popular destination for fans of fiery noodles. With over ten locations, including Shinjuku, Shibuya, Shinagawa, Ikebukuro, and Ueno, its intense heat is said to be addictively delicious! The ramen's spiciness ranges from levels 0 to 10, with the signature dish "Mōko Tanmen" at level 5—perfect for those who love heat. The "Nissin Mōko Tanmen Nakamoto Spicy Miso" is a collaboration between the brand and Nissin, and its unique texture and heat have won over many ramen enthusiasts. Once prepared, adding the shop's special chili oil releases a blend of spice and garlic aroma, recreating the enticing flavors of the original broth. Compared to the signature "Mōko Tanmen," the instant version offers richer seasoning and chewy noodles for a satisfying meal.
2. Santouka Signature Ramen
Originating from Asahikawa, "Santouka" is a beloved ramen shop known for its unique shio (salt) ramen, which sets it apart in a region where soy-based broths are more common. Unlike Hakodate's clear salt ramen, Santouka's founder, Mr. Hatanaka, developed a creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) broth blended with vegetables and dried fish, creating a rich yet smooth taste. With its innovative flavor and distinct name, Santouka quickly gained popularity, expanding to many locations across Japan and even internationally, including Taiwan. The "Santouka Signature Ramen" replicates the shop's shio ramen, available exclusively at Japanese 7-Eleven stores. It offers a rich blend of soy sauce, miso, salt, and pork bone, paired with their signature springy noodles. Each bite releases a subtle fragrance, followed by the complex taste of the broth—a true delight for ramen lovers. This option is ideal for those who prefer a lighter taste compared to other bold-flavored ramen.
3. Ichiran Ramen
Ichiran, originating from Kyushu, is a classic Hakata-style ramen shop known as "Fukuoka's finest." Since its rebranding in 1966, Ichiran has gained popularity nationwide with its delicious ramen and unique dining experience, making it a top choice among ramen enthusiasts both in Japan and abroad, with locations around the world. Ichiran's noodles are firm and springy, and its rich yet light broth is complemented by a secret spicy sauce that adds a delightful kick. The broth, crafted from carefully simmered pork bones, is a favorite among fans. To let more people enjoy their ramen anytime, Ichiran introduced their instant version, featuring the same broth, noodles, and signature red sauce. With its chili-based seasoning and a blend of over 30 ingredients, this rich soup offers an experience that feels like freshly prepared ramen. Just add hot water to the non-fried wheat noodles, and you can skip the wait for a taste of restaurant-quality ramen at home!
4. PREMIUM Iida Shoten Signature Soy Sauce Ramen
"Iida Shoten" is a revered ramen shop that attracts fans from all over Japan. It has consistently been recognized in Tokyo's prestigious "TRY Ramen Awards" for four consecutive years, making it a notable name in the Japanese ramen scene. The broth is made using a special filtration technique to remove impurities, combined with three types of chicken and six different soy sauces to bring out the best in the noodles. The signature soy sauce ramen balances a deep broth with sweet notes from blended wheat noodles, and the tender chashu melts in your mouth. The "Iida Shoten Signature Soy Sauce Ramen" perfectly recreates this flavor in a convenient form, blending pork, chicken, and a sweet soy sauce broth with non-fried noodles. Topped with chashu, bamboo shoots, green onions, and roasted seaweed, you can enjoy the taste of Iida Shoten from the comfort of your home in just 5 minutes!
5. Chuka Soba Tomita Pure Tonkotsu Ramen
Hailing from Matsudo in Chiba Prefecture, "Chuka Soba Tomita" is known as Japan's top tsukemen (dipping noodles) shop, earning the prestigious "TRY" award four years in a row and the "Grand Tsukemen Expo" prize. The shop is so famous that average wait times can exceed five hours, but fans still flock to savor its rich flavors. The "Chuka Soba Tomita Pure Tonkotsu Ramen" captures the thick, sweet, and savory pork bone broth flavor that is unique to its Matsudo location. Despite its simple appearance, the complex, layered taste of the broth is unforgettable. The creamy richness lingers, yet the aftertaste is refreshingly clean, making this ramen a must-try for those seeking an authentic experience without the long wait!
6. Ippudo Hakata Rich Tonkotsu Ramen
Founded in 1985 during a downturn in the ramen industry, "Ippudo" took its name from the hope of clearing away the industry's "dark clouds" with a "strong gust of wind." Ippudo’s signature dish is its original tonkotsu ramen, featuring a milky pork bone broth that is simmered for over 20 hours. Paired with tender pork chashu and firm noodles that offer a comforting and authentic taste of Hakata-style ramen, it brings a truly satisfying experience. The "Ippudo Hakata Rich Tonkotsu Ramen," a collaboration with 7-Eleven, has been refined to create a perfect blend of rich pork bone broth, secret miso, and garlic oil, enhancing the savory pork flavor. Each bite is packed with flavor, with thick slices of chashu and smooth noodles that bring the same joy as dining in the restaurant.
With these instant versions from different ramen shops, you can enjoy a variety of authentic Japanese ramen flavors right at home! Visit Live Japan Ramen Shop to discover popular ramen products and savor the true taste of Japan, delivered directly from Tokyo!