The classic 5 Ramen varieties

2024/08/26

In Japan, there are a variety of ramen flavors available, each with its own unique taste and regional style. Here are some popular varieties: Shoyu Ramen, Miso Ramen, Shio Ramen, Tonkotsu Ramen, Tsukemen, and so on. Discover your favorite ramen variety by exploring the different flavors in Japan!

How do you eat Ramen?

Ramen are eaten with chopsticks which are usually available at the table. A Chinese-style spoon is often provided as well to help with small toppings and for drinking the soup. It is also alright to lift up the bowl to drink the soup directly from the bowl.

Ramen noodles get soggy quickly and should be eaten immediately after they are served. As with other noodle dishes in Japan, a slurping sound is made when eating ramen. The slurping enhances the flavors and helps cool down the piping hot noodles as they enter your mouth. At the end of the meal, it is alright to leave some unfinished soup in the bowl. You do not need to drink the whole bowl to be polite, although it is considered a compliment to the chef to do so.

What is the process for ordering ramen?

Typical ramen-ya tend to follow the procedures described on our dining out page, with the additional note that it is fairly common for ramen-ya to use the vending machine method for ordering and paying. In these cases you should purchase meal tickets at the machine near the entrance before being seated.

Type of noodle Ramen

Shoyu[soy sauce]

A clear, brown broth flavoured with soy sauce (shoyu). Chicken broth is the usual ingredient, but it can also include meats like pork, beef, or fish, depending on the region. Shoyu ramen are the most common type of ramen, which originated in 1910 in Tokyo.

Shio [salt]

Shio ramen soup is a light, clear broth seasoned with salt. It is typically made from chicken broth, but may also be flavored with other meats.

Miso [soybean paste]

Creating a soup that is thick, brown, and has a rich, complex flavor.Hokkaido has been home to the style for more than 60 years.

Tonkotsu [pork bone]

Tonkotsu ramen is a popular dish in Kyushu that is made from pork bones that are boiled until they dissolve into a cloudy white broth. Chicken broth and pork fat are often used to flavor the thick, creamy soup.

Tantanmen

The famous Chinese Sichuan Dan Dan Mian has been adapted into this soup. The soup broth is spicy and creamy, making it unique. This delicious bowl of ramen is not to be missed!

Exploring the diverse flavors in Japan!

In Japan, a wide range of ramen flavors is available, each offering a distinct taste and regional twist. Some popular types include Shoyu Ramen, Miso Ramen, Shio Ramen, Tonkotsu Ramen, and Tsukemen, among others. Embark on a flavorful journey and find your favorite ramen by trying out the diverse varieties Japan has to offer!