Ramen is one of Japan’s most famous comfort foods, and Tokyo is home to thousands of ramen shops serving everything from rich pork broth to light soy sauce-based soups. Whether you’re visiting Japan for the first time or you’re a dedicated ramen fan, you’ll find a bowl to suit your taste.
Types of Ramen You Should Know
Before choosing a restaurant, it’s helpful to know some of the most popular ramen styles found throughout Japan.
Shoyu – A soy sauce-based broth with a light, savory flavor.
Shio – A salt-based broth that is clean, delicate, and often lighter than other styles.
Miso – A rich, slightly sweet broth made with fermented soybean paste, especially popular during colder months.
Tonkotsu – A creamy pork bone broth with a rich, hearty flavor.
Niboshi – A flavorful broth made from dried sardines, offering a rich umami taste that is especially popular among ramen enthusiasts.
Best Ramen Restaurants in Tokyo
Ichiran
- Famous tonkotsu ramen
- Private individual booths
- English ordering system
One of Japan’s most famous ramen chains, Ichiran specializes in rich tonkotsu ramen. Customers can customize everything from the noodle firmness to the spice level using an easy-to-use ordering system, making it a great choice for international visitors.
AFURI
- Refreshing yuzu ramen
- Light chicken-based broth
- Stylish modern atmosphere
AFURI is best known for its signature yuzu ramen, which combines a delicate chicken broth with the refreshing flavor of Japanese citrus. It’s an excellent option if you prefer a lighter bowl of ramen.
Ginza Kagari
- Rich chicken paitan broth
- Michelin-recognized reputation
- Elegant presentation
Ginza Kagari is one of Tokyo’s best-known chicken ramen restaurants. Its creamy chicken broth is rich yet refined, offering a unique alternative to traditional pork-based ramen.
Rokurinsha
- Famous tsukemen (dipping ramen)
- Thick, flavorful broth
- Chewy noodles
Rokurinsha is one of Japan’s most famous tsukemen restaurants. The noodles are served separately from the concentrated broth, allowing you to dip each bite before eating for a different ramen experience.
Tokyo Ramen Street
- Several famous ramen shops in one location
- A variety of ramen styles
- Perfect for comparing different flavors
If you can’t decide on just one restaurant, Tokyo Ramen Street is an excellent choice. It brings together several of Japan’s most famous ramen brands, allowing you to try different styles in one convenient location.
Many popular ramen shops use ticket vending machines instead of ordering at the table. While some machines accept credit cards, many still require cash, so it’s a good idea to carry a small amount of Japanese yen.
Don’t worry if you don’t speak Japanese—many restaurants now offer English menus or picture buttons. If the restaurant serves gyoza, it’s well worth ordering a plate alongside your ramen.
And don’t be shy about slurping your noodles—it’s completely normal in Japan. Many locals believe it enhances the flavor and shows you’re enjoying the meal.
Because the broth can easily splash onto your clothes while slurping, especially if you’re wearing light-colored clothing, feel free to ask the staff for a disposable paper bib. Many ramen restaurants provide them upon request.
