[Fukushima specialty, Kitakata Ramen] An exquisite local ramen loved all over the country!

What is Kitakata Ramen?

Kitakata Ramen is a local ramen originating from Kitakata City in Fukushima Prefecture, and it is so popular that it is counted among the Three Great Ramen of Japan.

Its characteristics include chewy, flat, curly noodles and a light yet rich soy sauce broth.

Loved by ramen enthusiasts nationwide, Kitakata City is also known as the "Ramen Sanctuary," with over 100 ramen shops clustered in the area.

The culture of eating ramen from the morning, known as "Asa-ra," is also famous, and it is not uncommon to find ramen shops open early in the morning.

This article will introduce the charm of Kitakata Ramen, popular shops, and access information in detail!

The Charm of Kitakata Ramen

1. What are the Characteristics of Kitakata Ramen?

Kitakata Ramen has unique features that set it apart from other local ramen.

① Flat Curly Noodles

• Medium-thick flat curly noodles that mix well with the broth
• Chewy texture with a firm bite

② Clear Soy Sauce Broth

• The basic broth is light and soy sauce-based
• There are also broths using pork bones and dried fish, giving each shop its unique flavor

③ Simple Yet Deeply Flavored Toppings

• Common toppings include char siu, green onions, and bamboo shoots
• Some shops offer thick char siu or special bamboo shoots

A must-try delicacy for any ramen lover!

2. The Origin and History of Kitakata Ramen

The history of Kitakata Ramen dates back about 100 years.

It is believed to have originated when a Chinese chef started serving ramen from a food stall.

• Early Showa Period: Local noodle makers developed "flat curly noodles"
• Post-war: Kitakata Ramen spread nationwide, becoming a popular local ramen
• Present: Some shops have expanded into chains, further increasing its recognition

Today, Kitakata City has become a "Ramen Town" with over 100 ramen shops, attracting ramen fans from all over the country as well as locals.

3. Must-Try! Famous Kitakata Ramen Shops

Kitakata City boasts numerous ramen shops, each with its own unique characteristics.

Here are some particularly popular shops.

1. Bannai Shokudo

• The quintessential representative of Kitakata Ramen!
• The melt-in-your-mouth thick char siu is exquisite
• 【Address】7230 Hosoda, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture
• 【Hours】7:00–18:00 (Closed on Thursdays)

2. Makoto Shokudo

• A long-established ramen shop founded in 1938
• Simple soy sauce ramen with enduring popularity
• 【Address】7116 Odatsukemichi-shita, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture
• 【Hours】7:30–15:00 (Closed on Thursdays)

3. Abe Shokudo

• Known for its soy sauce broth enhanced with the umami of kelp and dried fish
• 【Address】4506 Midori-machi, Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture
• 【Hours】7:00–15:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)

The culture of "Asa-ra" is deeply rooted, making it appealing that many shops open early!

4. Enjoy at Home! How to Make Kitakata Ramen

Kitakata Ramen can be enjoyed at home by purchasing souvenir sets or ordering online.

【Ingredients】 (for 2 servings)

• Kitakata Ramen (dry or fresh noodles): 2 servings
• Soy sauce: 50ml
• Chicken stock: 500ml
• Dried fish: 3-4 pieces
• Char siu, bamboo shoots, green onions: to taste

【Instructions】

1. Soak dried fish in water overnight to extract the broth.
2. Combine with chicken stock and add soy sauce to make the soup.
3. Boil Kitakata Ramen noodles, chill in cold water, then reheat.
4. Pour the soup into a bowl and add the noodles.
5. Top with char siu, bamboo shoots, and green onions to finish!

Enjoy the authentic taste with this simple recipe!

Useful Information for Travelers

Access Information (Let's Go Eat Kitakata Ramen!)

Access by Train

• From Tokyo: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to "Koriyama Station" → Take the Ban'etsu West Line to "Kitakata Station" (about 3 hours)
• From Sendai: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to "Fukushima Station" → Take the Ban'etsu West Line to "Kitakata Station" (about 2.5 hours)

Access by Car

• From Tokyo: Tohoku Expressway → Ban'etsu Expressway "Aizuwakamatsu IC" → About 30 minutes to Kitakata City
• From Sendai: Tohoku Expressway → Ban'etsu Expressway "Aizuwakamatsu IC" → About 30 minutes to Kitakata City

Wi-Fi Information

• Free Wi-Fi is available at the tourist information center around Kitakata Station
• Wi-Fi is also available in some ramen shops and cafes

Language Support

• English and Chinese brochures are available at the tourist information center
• Some shops offer English menus

Summary and FAQs

Kitakata Ramen is a simple yet profoundly flavored local ramen representing Fukushima.

The perfect balance of chewy flat curly noodles and light soy sauce broth is its charm!

Additionally, you can enjoy the culture of eating ramen from the morning, known as "Asa-ra," making it an irresistible spot for ramen lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the origin of Kitakata Ramen?

A: It is believed to have started with a Chinese chef serving it, boasting a history of about 100 years.

Q: Where can I eat Kitakata Ramen?

A: There are over 100 ramen shops in Kitakata City. Especially Bannai Shokudo, Makoto Shokudo, and Abe Shokudo are popular.

Q: Where can I buy souvenir Kitakata Ramen?

A: It can be purchased at souvenir shops around Kitakata Station or online shops.

If you visit Fukushima and Kitakata, be sure to try the authentic Kitakata Ramen!