Tokyo Station Ramen Street: A Guide To The Best Ramen Shops

Tokyo Station isn’t just a hub for trains and travel; it’s also a culinary hotspot, particularly renowned for its Ramen Street. Nestled within this bustling terminal, Ramen Street boasts a collection of some of the city’s finest ramen shops, each offering unique flavors and experiences that keep locals and tourists alike coming back for more.

If you find yourself at Tokyo Station, here’s your guide to savoring the best ramen that this iconic location has to offer.

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Ramen Culture in Tokyo

Ramen culture in Tokyo is a vibrant tapestry woven from tradition and innovation. This beloved dish, originally introduced from China in the early 20th century, has evolved into a culinary phenomenon. Tokyo boasts a diverse range of ramen styles, from the rich, soy-based shoyu ramen to the creamy, tonkotsu (pork bone) varieties.

Local shops often feature unique twists, like seasonal ingredients or homemade noodles, showcasing each chef’s creativity. The city’s ramen scene is characterized by its dedication to quality. Many shops use carefully sourced ingredients and artisanal techniques – both for their broth and their noodles.

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Ramen – A Communal Experience

Ramen is more than just a meal; it’s a communal experience. Many Tokyoites enjoy slurping noodles at bustling counters, sharing their favorite spots, and participating in ramen-themed events. With over 5,000 ramen shops in the city, Tokyo continues to be a pilgrimage site for food enthusiasts.

The famed noodle dish sure boasts an enduring appeal and cultural significance. Whether it’s a late-night bowl or a lunchtime ritual, ramen remains an integral part of Tokyo’s culinary identity.

What is Ramen Street in Tokyo Station?

Ramen Street, or “Ramen Koji,” is located on the basement level of Tokyo Station, just a short walk from the Marunouchi North Exit. This compact area features a number of specialized ramen shops, each showcasing a different style and regional influence.

The vibe is lively and bustling, making it an ideal spot for a quick meal between train transfers. Or – if you’re a true food traveler at heart – a dedicated ramen pilgrimage.

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Must-Try Ramen Shops

Tokyo Ramen Street showcases different ramen styles from across Japan, including Sapporo miso and Kitakata shoyu. Each shop here has its unique twist, making it a great place to explore various flavors without straying too far from your base.

To be honest you can’t really go wrong with any of the ramens shops in Tokyo Station Ramen Street. That said, here are a few highlights:

1. Dipping Ramen Rokurinsha

Specialty: Tsukemen (dipping ramen)
Highlight: Known for its rich, thick dipping sauce made with pork and fish stock. The noodles are chewy and perfect for dipping.
Must-try: Tsukemen with extra toppings. Don’t forget to add some spicy seasoning for an extra kick!

2. Seafood Tonkotsu Ramen Ikaruga

Specialty: Tonkotsu ramen with a seafood twist
Highlight: Combines creamy pork bone broth with a delicate seafood flavor, creating a unique umami experience.
Must-try: Seafood Tonkotsu Ramen with a side of nori (seaweed) for added texture and flavor.

3. Shio Ramen Senmon Hirugao

Specialty: Shio (salt) ramen
Highlight: This shop focuses on a light, clear broth that showcases the natural flavors of the ingredients. Perfect for those who prefer a milder taste.
Must-try: Shio Ramen topped with char siu (braised pork) and a soft-boiled egg.

4. Tokyo Niboshi Dried Sardines Ramen Gyoku

Specialty: Niboshi (dried sardine) ramen
Highlight: Features a flavorful broth made from dried sardines, giving it a distinct umami kick. The noodles are perfectly cooked to complement the broth.
Must-try: Gyoku Ramen with extra niboshi for an intensified flavor.

5. Soy Sauce Soranoiro Nippon Ramen – Vegan Friendly!

Specialty: Soy sauce ramen
Highlight: Offers a well-balanced soy sauce-based broth with fresh ingredients. The broth has a depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
Must-try: Soranoiro Ramen, which includes seasonal vegetables and a rich soy sauce flavor.

6. Miso Ramen Hanamichian

Specialty: Miso ramen
Highlight: Rich and hearty, this shop serves miso ramen that warms you up from the inside out, with a perfect balance of miso and toppings.
Must-try: Miso Ramen with corn and butter for a classic Hokkaido-style twist.

7. Tonkotsu Ramen Oreshiki Jun

Specialty: Tonkotsu ramen
Highlight: Known for its creamy, rich broth made from slow-simmered pork bones. It’s a favorite among tonkotsu lovers.
Must-try: Oreshiki Ramen, featuring a perfectly cooked egg and a generous portion of chashu.

8. Bonus: T’s Tantan Vegan Ramen

While not strictly speaking a part of the Ramen Street, T’s Tantan is also inside Tokyo Station. It’s an all-vegan ramen shop very popular with plant based foodies and carnivores alike. Give it a go for a lighter, veggie packed ramen alternative that’s equally satisfying.

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Tips for Visiting Ramen Street

Timing is Key: To avoid long lines, try to visit during off-peak hours, such as late afternoon or early evening.
And so is Cash… bring enough!
Luggage is OK: since Ramen Street is located inside Japan’s busiest railway station, it is expected and accepted that diners will have a suitcase in tow. Most shops have a dedicated space to store your luggage while you’re eating.
English Menus: since it’s an area with so many international travelers in transit, English menus are available. To the best of our knowledge only one ramen shop did not have English translation.

Minimum Order: many shops in Ramen Street have a minimum order requirement. Because of nature of the station environment they understandably want to maximize profits and increase turnover. Order a minimum of one ramen per person and don’t linger. Slurp your ramen and move on.
Toppings: Don’t hesitate to customize your ramen with extra toppings like soft-boiled eggs, extra pork, or vegetables.
Side Dishes: Some shops offer gyoza or vegetable side dishes that pair well with ramen—perfect for a fuller meal.

Explore Different Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try multiple shops! The proximity of the stalls allows for easy exploration. There are also some tempura spots and standing sushi bars sprinkled in between ramen shops.
Check for Seasonal Specials: Many shops offer limited-time ramen or seasonal ingredients, so keep an eye out for something unique.

Explore Tokyo food scene with local experts. BOOK the highly popular Shinjuku Izakaya Food Tour, Best of Shibuya Food Tour or Tokyo Night Foodie Tour

Tokyo Station’s Ramen Street

Tokyo Station’s Ramen Street is a culinary treasure trove that encapsulates the spirit of Japanese ramen culture. Each shop brings its own flair and dedication to the craft, making it an essential stop for anyone looking to experience authentic ramen in the heart of Tokyo.

Whether you’re a ramen aficionado or a curious traveler, this bustling food haven is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more. So next time you pass through Tokyo Station, make sure to carve out some time to indulge in this unique ramen experience cherished by tourists and locals alike.

Have you been to Tokyo Station Ramen Street? Let us know in the comments or tag @eightyflavors on socials!

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