Review

Sanmi Ramen 333 in Fukuoka is a notable ramen spot known for its unique offerings, particularly the tomato ramen that went viral in the local SNS scene. The chain prides itself on its Italian chef-created recipe, innovation, and affordability in a city where Tonkotsu is the staple. A student meal costs only 330 yen, making it an extremely affordable choice without scrimping on quality.

Juugomangoku Ramen (南国飯店 十五万石) is a budget chain in Oita known for its variety of dishes, including ramen, rice bowls, katsu-don, fried rice, gyoza, and curry. The restaurant is famous for its generous portions and delicious ramen, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Ramen Icchan, known locally as ラーメンいっちゃん琴別府店, is situated near Kamegawa station in Beppu. Founded by former sumo wrestler Ichinoya, who brought his discipline and dedication from the sumo ring to the culinary world after retiring. The shop is celebrated for its robust tonkotsu broth and handmade noodles, reflecting Ichinoya’s commitment to quality and authenticity.

Established in 1956, Noriichi is one of the oldest operating ramen shop in the city central. Noriichi in Kagoshima’s Yamanokuchi district is famous for its straightforward, satisfying ramen bowls, ideal for late-night dining.

Tontoro Ramen in Kagoshima is celebrated for its rich and hearty pork ramen. The standout feature is the slow-cooked broth made from Kagoshima pork, chicken bones, and bonito, creating a flavorful, cloudy base.

Imagine a rich, creamy tonkotsu broth with a zesty twist of lemon, topped with fresh green onion—sounds intriguing, right? Their lemon tonkotsu ramen is a must-try, blending savory and refreshing notes perfectly.

Ramen Hiiragi in Nagasaki is a beloved ramen shop known for its unique tomato-based ramen. This dish features creative ingredients like eggplant and spinach, adding depth and complexity. The shop also excels in traditional tonkotsu ramen, praised for its rich, savory broth.

Daihachi in Nagasaki is famous for its Champon, a hearty noodle soup with roots in Chinese cuisine, created for Chinese students in the early 1900s. Unlike traditional ramen, Champon’s toppings—pork, seafood, and vegetables—are stir-fried in lard before the noodles and broth are added, allowing everything to cook together and soak up the broth’s rich flavors.

Kakuya isn’t actually a ramen restaurant; it’s more of a souvenir shop that also serves food. Located along the quiet old shopping street leading to the famous Yutoku Inari Shrine (one of the three great Inari shrines in Japan), you’ll find Kakuya on the main street. The shopfront displays a variety of local snacks and pastries, while a hidden corner signboard lists the food menu.