Khaizuran RashidSingaporeans, if you want to level up your foodie adventures in Japan, get ready to experience the nation’s ramen crown jewel: Ichiran Ramen. Indeed, it’s renowned as Japan’s most popular ramen experience, and it’s more than just a meal. Instead, think of it as a quirky, immersive journey into the heart of tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen. Whether you’re a seasoned ramen lover or a curious first-timer, here’s what you need to know to enjoy this iconic dish like a pro.
Also read: 13 Underrated Dishes You Should Never Leave Japan Without Trying
A Taste of History: From Humble Beginnings to Global Fame
Image credit: Wei-Te Wong | Flickr
Picture the aroma of simmering pork bones wafting through a modest food stall in Fukuoka City back in 1960. That’s where Ichiran began its journey, specialising in rich, flavourful tonkotsu ramen – a style that has now taken the world by storm.
Fast-forward to 1993, and Ichiran grew into a full-fledged ramen empire with over 80 outlets worldwide, including New York, Taipei, and Hong Kong. So, for Singaporeans visiting Japan, tasting Ichiran is like stepping back into ramen’s origins while experiencing a piece of Japanese culinary history.
The Ramen Booth: Your Private Haven of Flavour
Image credits (L-R): Skyseeker via Wikimedia Commons; Goh Jun Hao
Step into any Ichiran outlet and you’ll enter a world that mixes old-school charm with modern efficiency. Here, each diner gets their own private booth – an intimate little space meant to focus attention on the art of slurping.
Bamboo-woven curtains separate the booths, letting you eat in peaceful solitude. Thus, you can savour every bite without distractions – perfect for Singaporeans looking to escape the city hustle.
Ordering 101: The Ticket Machine Ritual
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Forget the usual waiter service. At Ichiran, ordering is its own adventure. Start by putting cash into the ticket machine, where a dazzling set of buttons shows various choices. Here, you pick your ramen base plus extras like more pork, an egg, mushrooms, or seaweed.
Prices start at ¥980 (S$8.70) for a classic bowl, and ¥1,320 (S$11.72) for a heartier version with extra noodles and a soft-boiled egg. Hence, this streamlined, self-service approach is not only efficient but also adds an interactive twist – something busy Singaporeans will appreciate for speed and simplicity.
Customise Your Bowl: Personalise Every Slurp
Image credits (L-R): Goh Jun Hao; Jhengyaolin via Canva Pro
Once you have your ticket and settle into your private booth, the real fun begins. Each table has an order sheet that lets you fine-tune your ramen to your exact liking. Do you want extra garlic to chase away lingering stress? Prefer a spicy kick to jolt your taste buds awake? Just circle your choices!
Many Singaporeans love this chance to create a bowl as unique as their mood. The standard recipe features a rich pork-bone broth boosted by a tangy soy sauce seasoning and a secret spicy red sauce with more than 30 mysterious ingredients. Together, these flavours form a triangle of deliciousness, bowl after bowl.
Kae-Dama: The Art of the Noodle Refill
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When your appetite needs more, Ichiran has you covered with kae-dama. This “magic spell” lets you order extra noodles to mix with your leftover broth, so you don’t waste a drop of flavour. To use it, place your noodle refill ticket on the marked button at your booth.
Whether you’re a ramen purist or simply enjoy extending your culinary pleasure, this fun ritual is an affordable way to keep slurping. It’s one more secret that makes the Ichiran experience especially satisfying!
Why Ichiran Ramen is an Unmissable Experience for Singaporeans
Put simply, Ichiran Ramen delivers a dining experience far beyond a normal bowl of noodles. Its storied history, innovative private booths, interactive ticket machine ordering, and customisable flavour options, plus the fun of kae-dama, make every visit a celebration of culinary creativity.
For Singaporeans craving authentic, delicious Japanese cuisine served with a dash of quirky, interactive fun, Ichiran is a must-see. So, if you’re planning your next trip to Japan, don’t miss this iconic ramen stop. Get ready to slurp, smile, and savour every moment. Happy eating!
Also read: 10 Must-Visit Attractions in Sapporo, Japan
