Best Ramen in Kyoto: Top 10 Restaurants to Try Now

Kyoto, a city steeped in history and culture, is also a haven for ramen enthusiasts, boasting over 200 ramen shops that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Here are the top 10 ramen restaurants in Kyoto that you should try, each offering a unique and memorable dining experience.

1. Ginjo Ramen Kubota

Located near Kyoto Station, Ginjo Ramen Kubota is a hidden gem that draws mostly locals despite its proximity to the station. This intimate ramen shop, with only about 10 seats, is famous for its tsukemen featuring a rich seafood broth. The thick miso broth clings perfectly to the chewy noodles, delivering a robust umami flavor. It's a must-try for those who have never had tsukemen before.

2. No Name Ramen

This unassuming ramen spot in the Nakagyo-ku district lacks flashy signage but offers a stylish, industrial-chic interior. No Name Ramen stands out for its meticulous attention to vegetables alongside the meat and noodles, making each bowl a harmonious blend of flavors. You can customize your broth to be rich, light, or a fusion of both, ensuring a personalized experience.

3. Vegan Ramen UZU Kyoto

For vegan ramen enthusiasts, UZU Kyoto is a game-changer. This Michelin Bib Gourmand award-winning restaurant offers a 12-hour broth steeped in Rausu kelp, Japanese shiitake mushrooms, and vegetables. The noodles are a blend of Hokkaido's finest with organic whole-grain flour from Miyazaki. The menu includes soy sauce, spicy miso, and green tea-based ramen, all presented in a visually stunning manner.

4. Menbakaichidai

Known for its flaming ramen, Menbakaichidai is a small yet legendary spot that has been around since 1984. The ramen is served with a colossal mound of green onions, which are then set ablaze, infusing a delicate flavor into the broth. This unique presentation makes it a must-visit for an unforgettable dining experience.

5. Menya Inoichi

This Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant in downtown Kyoto is popular among locals and visitors alike. Menya Inoichi offers a clear stock broth without any animal ingredients, available in white or dark soy sauce bases. The broth is balanced and nuanced, and you can customize it further with various seasonings and condiments. The wagyu ramen and regular pork ramen are highly recommended.

6. Ramen Sen No Kaze Kyoto

Located in the heart of Kyoto, Ramen Sen No Kaze is a cozy establishment known for its exceptional Shoyu (soy sauce) and Shio (salt) ramen. The restaurant's Kyoto-style chicken ramen features a clear, flavorful broth and tender chicken, making it a comforting yet sophisticated choice.

7. Ichiran Ramen

Ichiran Ramen, a renowned chain, offers a unique dining experience with individual booths, allowing guests to enjoy their meal in solitude. The Tonkotsu ramen here is rich and creamy, and you can customize your bowl according to your preference, from noodle firmness to broth richness and spiciness.

8. Ramen Touhichi

Ramen Touhichi is another local favorite, known for its traditional ramen. Located in a quiet area, this shop offers a classic ramen experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation methods.

9. Kyoto Ramen Street (Kyoto Ramen Koji)

Located on the 10th floor of Kyoto Station, Kyoto Ramen Street is a corridor of ramen shops offering regional variations of ramen. While no single restaurant here is among the city's best, the concentration of shops makes it a convenient and fun experience for ramen enthusiasts.

10. Janomeya Ramen

Situated in the Pontocho area, Janomeya Ramen is a tiny stall that is easy to miss but worth the search. This ramen shop offers modern and inventive takes on traditional ramen, making it a great spot for those looking to try something new and unique.

Tips for Enjoying Ramen in Kyoto

• Arrive Early: Many popular ramen shops have limited seating and can have long lines, especially during peak hours. Arriving early can help you secure a spot.
• Customization: Several ramen shops in Kyoto offer customization options, so don't hesitate to ask for your preferred broth richness, noodle firmness, or additional toppings.
• Explore Local Areas: Venturing into local neighborhoods can lead you to hidden gems that are less crowded and equally delicious.
• Reservations: For some popular spots like Vegan Ramen UZU Kyoto, making a reservation in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.

Price Range

The cost of a bowl of ramen in Kyoto can vary, but generally, you can expect to pay between ¥700 to ¥1,500. Some specialty or gourmet ramen might cost more.

Unique Features of Kyoto Ramen

Kyoto ramen often features lighter broths and delicate, artisanal noodles compared to other parts of Japan. The quality of ingredients and meticulous preparation by skilled chefs make Kyoto ramen stand out.