Written by Fukushima Prefecture
Ramen Capital Kitakata City
What flavours come to your mind when you hear the words ‘Japanese Ramen’? In Japan, there are 3 main types of ramen: Miso Ramen, Tonkotsu Ramen, and Shoyu (Soy Sauce) Ramen. Japanese people often argue about their own taste preferences, for example: “I prefer Miso Ramen over Tonkotsu”.
I’d like to introduce you to Kitakata City, a city that is famous for Shoyu Ramen- and is often called the “Ramen Capital”. Kitakata City is in Aizu, an area increasingly popular amongst Australian skiers. Aizu is not only a favourite destination for winter sports enthusiasts, but also for Shoyu Ramen lovers from all over Japan.
The beauty of the clear soy sauce-based broth, and the flavour combination of the broth with the roasted ‘chashu’ pork toppings draw in customers. One of the most famous ramen restaurants from Kitakata City has opened a branch in the USA, and is receiving excellent online reviews.
Of course it’s one thing to dine at internationally famous restaurants, but another great way of enjoying ramen in Kitakata City is to find your own favourite ramen shop, out of the 120 restaurants in the city.
Here are some specific tips on how to enjoy Kitakata Ramen when you visit Kitakata City:
1) From Kitakata Station, go to the ‘Ramen Shrine’* where a Ramen God is thought to be enshrined! If you like, put your hands together and make a wish to eat delicious Kitakata Ramen.
2) Make sure to pick up a discount coupon at the Ramen Shrine. Also, ask the staff there for their ramen restaurant recommendations!
3) When you arrive at the restaurant of your choice, enjoy a bowl of delicious Kitakata Ramen.
4) If you still have room for more ramen, visit another restaurant and compare the taste differences between the restaurants.
5) After the ramen, visit a sake brewery. Kitakata City is well-known for its sake. If sake isn’t your thing, how about picking up some ice cream?
I’m sure your trip to Kitakata City will be very satisfactory if you follow the steps above!
It takes 15 minutes between Kitakata Station and the main station in Aizu (Aizuwakamatsu Station) by train. Please visit Ramen Capital, Kitakata City, during your winter ski trips to the Aizu ski area!
（https://jnto.tohokumoment.com/en/fukushima/t2-kitakata_ramen/）
*Please note that the opening days of the Ramen Shrine may be limited during winter.
