Tokyo's Best Ramen: 3 Must-Try Bowls by Soup Base

Tokyo has tons of amazing ramen spots, but we’ve picked three must-try places based on their soup base. Whether you're a ramen newbie or a noodle fanatic, these bowls are worth checking out!

What’s Ramen Soup All About?

Ramen broth can vary a lot depending on its base. Here’s a quick rundown of three of the most popular types in Japan:

Shoyu (Soy Sauce) Ramen

• Clear, brown broth with a deep umami flavor.

• A perfect balance of soy sauce, chicken, and seafood stock.

• Light but super flavorful—one of Japan’s classic ramen styles.

Miso Ramen

• Thick and rich broth made with miso paste.

• Bold, savory, and perfect for cold weather.

• Originally from Sapporo, Hokkaido, but loved all over Japan.

Tonkotsu (Pork Bone) Ramen

• Creamy, white broth made by simmering pork bones for hours.

• Packed with umami and has a rich, velvety texture.

• A specialty from Kyushu, especially famous in Fukuoka (Hakata-style ramen).

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1. Shoyu Ramen: Yakumo (Ikejiri-Ohashi)

What Makes It Special

• Choose between two soy sauce broths: white shoyu and black shoyu.

• Delicate seafood-based soup with a super refined taste.

Must-Try Dish

• Their signature wonton ramen! Comes with both meat and shrimp wontons.

Why You’ll Love It

• Light but packed with deep umami flavors.

• Handcrafted noodles that pair perfectly with the broth.

How to Get There

• Nearest Station: Ikejiri-Ohashi Station (Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line, 5-minute walk)

English Menu?

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2. Miso Ramen: Oshima (Funabori)

What Makes It Special

• Made by a chef trained at the legendary Sapporo ramen shop “Sumire.”

• Rich, miso-packed broth topped with a layer of lard to keep it piping hot.

Must-Try Dish

• A perfect combo of bold, thick broth and chewy, curly noodles.

Why You’ll Love It

• Stays hot till the last sip—perfect for cold days.

• Brings a taste of Hokkaido straight to Tokyo.

How to Get There

• Nearest Station: Funabori Station (Toei Shinjuku Line, 10-minute walk)

English Menu?

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3. Tonkotsu Ramen: Tanaka Shoten (Rokucho)

What Makes It Special

• Authentic Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen with a thick, creamy broth.

• Made by simmering pork bones for hours, paired with super-thin straight noodles.

Must-Try Dish

• Enjoy unlimited “kaedama” (extra noodle refills)!

• Open late, making it the perfect spot for a midnight ramen fix.

Why You’ll Love It

• One of the best places in Tokyo for real-deal Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen.

• Rich, creamy broth that’s totally addictive.

How to Get There

• Nearest Station: Rokucho Station (Tsukuba Express, 10-minute walk)

English Menu?

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Final Thoughts

Each of these ramen spots brings something different to the table. Whether you’re into light and savory soy sauce, bold and hearty miso, or rich and creamy tonkotsu, there’s a perfect bowl waiting for you!

Next time, we’re diving into Tokyo’s best sushi spots—stay tuned!