Discovering Japan’s Ramen

2025.08.26

Table of Contents

Ramen – A Guide to Regional Flavors and Styles

Ramen is one of Japan’s most beloved comfort foods—a steaming bowl of noodles served in rich broth, topped with flavorful ingredients.

But ramen isn’t just one dish. Across Japan, you’ll find countless regional varieties, each with its own unique taste, ingredients, and cultural background.

For international visitors, understanding these differences can turn a simple meal into a delicious journey.

Shoyu Ramen (醤油ラーメン)

Originating in Tokyo, shoyu ramen features a soy sauce–based broth.

It’s typically clear and brown, with a savory, slightly tangy flavor.

Common toppings include sliced pork (chashu), bamboo shoots (menma), green onions, and boiled eggs.

It’s a well-balanced, classic style that’s easy to enjoy.

Miso Ramen (味噌ラーメン)

Born in Hokkaido, miso ramen uses fermented soybean paste to create a thick, hearty broth. It’s rich and slightly sweet, often paired with corn, butter, bean sprouts, and garlic.

This style is especially popular in colder regions, offering warmth and depth in every spoonful.

Shio Ramen (塩ラーメン)

Shio means “salt,” and this ramen has a light, clear broth seasoned primarily with salt.

It’s the most delicate of the major types, allowing the flavor of the ingredients—like seafood, chicken, or vegetables—to shine.

Originating in Hakodate, it’s refreshing and subtle.

Tonkotsu Ramen (豚骨ラーメン)

A specialty of Kyushu, especially Fukuoka, tonkotsu ramen is made by boiling pork bones for hours, resulting in a creamy, rich, and slightly fatty broth.

The noodles are usually thin and firm, and toppings often include pickled ginger, sesame seeds, and garlic. It’s bold, satisfying, and deeply flavorful.

Regional Highlights

Sapporo Ramen: Famous for miso broth and hearty toppings like corn and butter.
Kitakata Ramen: Known for its thick, curly noodles and light shoyu broth.
Hakata Ramen: A tonkotsu variant with ultra-thin noodles and intense flavor.
Tokyo Ramen: Typically shoyu-based with medium-thin noodles and classic toppings.

Toppings and Variations

Beyond broth and noodles, ramen is endlessly customizable. Popular toppings include:

Chashu (braised pork belly)
Ajitama (seasoned boiled egg)
Menma (fermented bamboo shoots)
Nori (seaweed)
Negi (green onions)
Naruto (fish cake with a pink swirl)

Tips for Travelers

Many ramen shops use vending machines to order—just select your dish and hand the ticket to staff.
Slurping noodles is not only acceptable, it’s encouraged—it enhances flavor and shows appreciation.
Regional ramen styles are best enjoyed locally, so try different types as you travel across Japan.