Hello everyone, and welcome to our guide on how to order customizable ramen in Tokyo. Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of Japanese ramen, exploring why you can personalize your bowl in so many ways, and discovering two famous chains—Ichiran and Ippudo—where you can enjoy unique ordering experiences.
We’ll also look at some helpful Japanese phrases, so by the end of this video, you’ll be ready to create and enjoy your perfect bowl of ramen during your trip.
Ramen Origins and Why You Can Make It Your Own
Ramen in Japan traces its origins to a Chinese-style noodle soup that arrived in the early 20th century. Over time, it evolved into a nationwide favorite, featuring regional variations like soy sauce, miso, salt, and pork bone broth. One of ramen’s greatest appeals is how you can make it your own, from noodle firmness to soup richness, and nearly every shop offers a variety of toppings. This deep-rooted tradition of personalization keeps people coming back for more, eager to fine-tune every element of their meal.
Navigating a Typical Ramen Shop
When you step into most ramen shops in Tokyo, you’ll often see a ticket-vending machine at the entrance. You simply insert your cash, press the button that corresponds to the ramen you want (and any extras you’d like), then collect your ticket and change. If there’s no vending machine, you can order from a menu or a tablet. As a visitor, you can usually point to photos or switch to an English menu, which helps make the process less intimidating. If the staff shouts “Irasshaimase!” it’s just a friendly greeting and doesn’t require a reply. Once seated, you may be asked how you prefer your noodles, often described as “Katame” (firm), “Futsuu” (normal), or “Yawarakame” (soft). In some shops, you can even choose how rich you want your soup, from stronger “Koime” to milder “Usume”. If you’re not sure, “Futsuu de onegai shimasu” means “Normal, please.”
Kaedama: Savoring a Second Helping of Noodles
A highlight of ramen culture in Japan is the “kaedama” system. If you still have soup left in your bowl, you can pay a small extra fee—often a couple of hundred yen—for another portion of freshly cooked noodles. The best time to request it is about halfway through your first serving, so your second round arrives piping hot. Simply say, “Kaedama onegai shimasu,” which translates to “Extra noodles, please,” and your bowl will soon be replenished.
Ichiran: A Flavor-Focused Experience
Ichiran specializes in pork bone (tonkotsu) ramen and is famous for its “flavor concentration booths,” where you can dine in near-complete privacy. After purchasing your ticket from the vending machine, you’ll be guided to a single-seat booth partitioned on each side. An order form lets you customize every detail, from the soup’s richness and garlic level to the type of green onion and spiciness. There’s an English version of this form, so it’s easy to fill out. When you press the call button, the staff will silently collect your ticket and paper, then serve your bowl through a small curtain. If you want extra noodles later, there’s another form for that, too. Many visitors find this serene, focused setting to be a uniquely memorable way to enjoy ramen.
Ippudo: Modern Atmosphere and Bold Flavors
Ippudo is another well-known chain that started in Fukuoka, celebrated for its creamy tonkotsu broth and thin noodles. Some locations use ticket machines, while others have a tablet system or allow you to order directly from the staff. A popular choice is “Shiromaru,” which showcases a smooth pork bone broth, but you can also opt for other varieties like “Akamaru” for a richer flavor profile. Toppings such as soft-boiled seasoned eggs or extra slices of chashu pork are easy to add. Tables at Ippudo often come with condiments like pickled ginger, spicy mustard greens, sesame seeds, or garlic, letting you adjust the taste as you go. Like Ichiran, Ippudo offers the kaedama option, so all you have to do is call the staff or ring a bell and say, “Kaedama onegai shimasu.” Many branches have English menus, and the staff is typically happy to assist.
Essential Japanese Phrases for Ramen Lovers
Before wrapping up, let’s briefly cover a few phrases that might come in handy. To order ramen, say, “Rāmen o kudasai” (“I’ll have ramen, please”). If you want a recommendation, ask, “Osusume wa nan desu ka?” (“What do you recommend?”). If you have dietary restrictions, you can say, “X nuki de onegai shimasu,” which means “Without X, please,” and if you’re looking to add something extra, “X o toppingu shite kudasai” conveys, “Please add X as a topping.” At the end of your meal, it’s polite to say, “Gochisōsama deshita,” meaning “Thank you for the meal,” which shows appreciation to the staff.
Conclusion: Embark on Your Ramen Adventure
Ramen in Japan isn’t just a quick meal; it’s a culinary journey of endless customization. Ichiran provides a unique, quiet atmosphere where you can focus on each bite, while Ippudo offers a lively setting where you can experiment with a range of bold flavors and condiments. Whether you’re exploring hidden local joints or sticking to these famous chains, don’t hesitate to try new combinations and practice those handy Japanese phrases. Thanks so much for joining me today. I hope this guide inspires you to create your very own delicious ramen experience. Have a blast slurping in Tokyo, and see you next time!
