FukushimaFood

First Bowl: 'Nikusoba' (Meat Ramen) with Salt Broth, the Icon of Early-Morning Ramen Culture

About this spot

One of the flagship establishments that made Kitakata Ramen famous nationwide, this popular shop draws lines from opening time. The signature 'Nikusoba' is impressive for its densely piled chashu pork covering every inch of the bowl. The clear salt broth, made from a pork bone base, is light yet flavorful, clinging beautifully to the flat, highly-hydrated crimped noodles. The chashu is tender and succulent, and surprisingly easy to eat despite its generous appearance. Kitakata is rooted in 'asara' (early-morning ramen) culture, eating ramen from opening, and starting your first bowl here truly captures the local spirit. An essential opening act for any ramen-hopping adventure.

Tips

About 15 minutes on foot from JR Kitakata Station. As a must-visit popular shop, arriving before opening and waiting in line is essential. Though service is relatively fast, weekend waits of an hour are not uncommon. For hopping, order a regular serving or simple chuka-soba on your first visit to leave room in your stomach. Pro tip.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour including wait time. Arriving right at opening in the early morning means the shortest lines and the best early-ramen experience.