Kyoto is famous not only for its ancient temples and traditional arts but also for its surprising and innovative culinary scene. Ramen, a staple of Japanese comfort food, has evolved into an art form here. In this post, we’ll explore eight must-try ramen spots around Gion, Kyoto and reveal what makes Kyoto’s ramen special.
Table of Contents
What is Ramen?
Ramen’s a Japanese noodle dish that started way back with Chinese immigrants bringing their noodle game to Japan in the late 1800s, popping up in bustling port cities like Yokohama.
It’s all about wheat noodles swimming in a killer broth—maybe pork-based tonkotsu that’s simmered forever, soy sauce shoyu with its salty kick, miso for that funky richness, or light and clean salt shio. Then you’ve got toppings like tender sliced pork, crispy seaweed, green onions, and those jammy soft-boiled eggs that make every bite pop. Every region in Japan’s got its own twist: Hokkaido’s miso ramen is thick and hearty to warm you up in snowy winters, while Tokyo’s shoyu style keeps it simple and sharp.
Over time, ramen’s gone from a quick street eat to a global obsession—you’ll find instant packs on every supermarket shelf, but also high-end bowls in places like NYC, London, or Sydney. It’s the ultimate comfort food, super customizable, and loved worldwide for its warm, slurp-worthy vibes.
What Makes Kyoto’s Ramen So Special?
Kyoto’s ramen scene is next-level, blending old-school Japanese vibes with creative twists that scream local pride. They use stuff like Kyoto’s famous soy sauce—aged and smooth—and fresh veggies grown right nearby to craft broths that hit different. The city’s known for “kotteri” ramen—those thick, rich soups that coat your spoon and stick to your ribs, often loaded with collagen from long-simmered bones.
But it’s not all heavy hitters; you’ve got wild cards like Menbakaichidai, where they pour flaming oil over your bowl for a smoky show, or UZU’s vegan ramen that’s so good even carnivores line up for it. Kyoto’s got range—cheap, no-frills joints near universities for students, plus tourist-friendly spots like Ichiran, where you eat in solo booths for that zen focus on your meal. It’s a food culture obsessed with balance, so every bowl feels like a mix of history, craft, and a little Kyoto magic. Whether you’re after tradition or something totally out there, this city’s ramen delivers a taste you won’t forget.
If you are seeking traditional Kyoto’s cuisine, such as Soba or Okonomi-yaki, these are for you.
–Soba recommendations
–Gion restaurants
Must-Try Ramen Styles in Kyoto
- Shoyu Ramen (Soy Sauce): A Kyoto classic with a light yet rich soy-based broth.
- Paitan Ramen (Chicken Broth): A creamy, umami-rich chicken broth that’s a local favorite.
- Vegetarian Ramen: For plant-based eaters, Kawaramachi has plenty of soy milk and vegetable broths.
- Tonkotsu Ramen (Pork Bone): A hearty, flavorful ramen that’s a little lighter than its counterparts from Fukuoka.
- Jiro Style Ramen: A massive thick noodle ramen with kotteri soup. There is an insane amount of vegetables on top of the ramen. If you want to be stuffed, this style is must-try.
- Maze Soba: A brothless ramen, served with noodles mixed in a savory sauce and topped with ingredients like minced meat, green onions, and a boiled egg. It’s rich, tangy, and packed with flavor.
Eight Ramen Spots Near Gion Street
Customizable tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen. You pick the spice level, broth richness, and noodle texture. You eat in private booths, perfect for focusing on the rich, flavorful pork broth. It’s a global favorite for a reason.
When you finish the ramen, you can ask “kaedama”, meaning another serving. Put the metal tag on the table , which you can buy at a vending machine, and they refill your ramen instantly. Don’t Finish Your Soup! It’s important to leave some soup in your bowl. If you finish it all, your “kaedama” will be just plain noodles without any flavor.
Address: 598 Uraderacho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8041
Hours: Sunday 12:00-22:00 Monday-Thursday 9:00-22:00 Saturday 24 hours
Phone: 050-1808-9543
Craving heat? This Chinese restaurant, Tiger Gyoza’s “Tantanmen” delivers. Creamy sesame broth, minced pork, and chili oil create a bold dance of flavors and this is REALLY spicy. Pair it with their golden gyoza—crisp shells hugging juicy fillings and banana gyoza—a gigantic gyoza.
Pro tip: The ramen-gyoza combo is a local favorite. Come hungry, leave euphoric.
Address: 604-8042 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Nakanocho, 579-7-5
Hours: Monday-Friday 11:30-15:00 17:00-22:00 Saturday and Sunday 11:30-22:00
Phone: 075-257-7665
Closed: Tuesday
The Ramen War. Honestly, it sounded more like a video game or a movie title than a place to grab a bowl of noodles. The concept is simple but clever — they’ve turned ramen into a “battle” of flavors. Each bowl on the menu has names like “Peace”, “Freedom”, “Pistole”, and “Rusty Blade”. It’s not just gimmicky — the presentation and depth of flavor in each bowl reflect that theme. You can tell they put thought into balancing the taste, the toppings, and even the visuals.
This location in Kyoto seems especially popular with tourists — I overheard conversations in English, Korean, and Chinese while waiting. Still, the ramen had that rich, comforting taste you’d expect from a serious Japanese ramen shop.
Address: 604-8032 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Yamazakicho, 238 1F
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11:00-11:00 Friday and Saturday 11:00-0:00
Phone: 075-746-2137
In Kyoto’s Gion district, Ajinotentoku offers a completely different style of noodles — Abura Soba, or “oil noodles.” Unlike traditional ramen, Abura Soba is served without soup. Instead, the noodles are tossed in a soy-based sauce mixed with flavorful oils, creating a rich, savory coating on every strand.
Ajinotentoku is known for its simple yet deeply satisfying bowls. Each serving is topped with tender pork belly, a soft-boiled egg, and fresh green onions. Diners are encouraged to adjust the flavor themselves — adding vinegar or chili oil for extra kick — making the experience interactive and customizable.
This shop specializes in balancing two types of homemade oils — lard and flavored oil — which, combined with their light soy sauce, creates a flavorful yet not overpowering finish. It’s a great introduction to Abura Soba, especially for those curious about noodle dishes beyond typical ramen.
Address: 347-36 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073
Hours: 11:30-14:30 23:00-4:00
Phone: 075-525-5021
closed: Irregular
Kyoto Engine Ramen offers a modern twist on traditional ramen — focusing on inclusivity with vegan and gluten-free options alongside classic flavors. What sets this shop apart is their attention to dietary needs without sacrificing taste or presentation.
Kyoto Engine Ramen is known for its rich, creamy vegan broths and carefully crafted bowls. Their vegan options include soy-based and spicy ramen, both topped with seasonal vegetables and tofu. Gluten-free diners can enjoy their ramen with specially prepared soybean or konjac noodles, ensuring a safe and satisfying meal. Check out this article for more vegan restaurants.
The shop prides itself on balancing bold flavors with clean, modern presentation. Guests can further customize their bowl with additional toppings or seasonings, allowing each person to adjust the taste to their preference. It’s an ideal stop for anyone seeking a more inclusive ramen experience while exploring Kyoto’s diverse food scene.
Address: 580-2 Nakanocho, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8042
Hours: 12:00-22:30
Phone: 075-606-4234
Located in Kyoto’s busy Shinkyogoku shopping district, Tenkaippin Sanjo Store is part of the well-known Tenkaippin ramen chain, famous for its signature kotteri ramen — a thick, rich chicken-based broth that stands out for its intense flavor and creamy texture.
This branch offers their classic kotteri style alongside lighter options, giving diners the choice between a bold, full-bodied bowl or something more subtle. Each serving comes with perfectly cooked noodles, slices of tender chashu pork, green onions, and seasoned boiled egg — all designed to complement the thick, savory soup.
Tenkaippin prides itself on consistency and customization. Guests can adjust their bowl with extra toppings or noodles, making it easy to tailor the meal to personal tastes. It’s a great spot for those craving a filling, satisfying ramen experience, especially for anyone wanting to try Kyoto’s famous kotteri style.
Address: 604-8035 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Ishibashicho, ７−1
Hours: 11:00-21:00
Phone: 075-211-8338
Situated in the bustling Kawaramachi district, Kirameki no Tori offers a unique take on traditional ramen by specializing in Taiwanese mazesoba, a flavorful mixed noodle dish. The restaurant’s central location makes it a convenient stop for both locals and tourists exploring the vibrant shopping and entertainment areas of Kyoto.
The highlight of their menu is the Taiwan Mazesoba, featuring thick, chewy noodles topped with minced pork, a raw egg yolk, green onions, and a blend of spices. This combination creates a rich, spicy, and savory flavor profile that has garnered a loyal following.
Address: 602-0862 Kyoto, Kamigyo Ward, Demizucho, 281 Nagata Building 1F
Hours: 11:00-15:00 18:00-23:00
Phone: 075-231-2505
Nestled in the historic Gion district of Kyoto, Gion Duck Noodles offers a distinctive culinary experience centered around duck-based ramen. The establishment is renowned for its rich, flavorful broths and high-quality duck, attracting both locals and tourists seeking a unique taste of Kyoto’s ramen scene.
The menu features a variety of duck ramen options, including both soup-based and dry (tsukemen) styles. The broths are crafted from free-range ducks raised for their rich fat and finely textured meat, resulting in a deep, umami-packed flavor. Diners can choose from different cuts of duck, such as thigh or breast, to suit their preferences.
Address: 605-0073 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Gionmachi Kitagawa, 329 1F D
Hours: 10:00-21:30 Wednesday and Saturday 11:00-21:30
Phone: 075-708-7261
Conclusion
Every ramen shop in Kyoto presents its own interpretation of this classic dish by merging traditional local ingredients and cooking methods with modern twists. Some focus on clear, light broths that emphasize subtle, refined flavors, while others serve robust, smoky broths designed to deliver a hearty, satisfying meal. This variety ensures that diners can find a bowl that suits their personal taste, whether they prefer something delicate or bold.
After you’ve slurped down some epic ramen, lace up your shoes and jump on Kyoto Insight’s free walking tours—they’re the perfect way to keep the good times rolling. You’ll get expert guides who know the city like the back of their hand, taking you through hidden gems like quiet temples, bustling markets, and ancient shrines, all while tossing out cool history and culture tidbits. It’s a great way to walk off that ramen belly while soaking in Kyoto’s chill, timeless vibe.
FAQ Section
1. How is ramen served?
Ramen is typically served in a large bowl, with noodles floating in the broth, accompanied by the toppings. The soup is often served piping hot, and the noodles are served firm to allow for slurping, which is a traditional way of eating ramen in Japan.
2. What is the best way to eat ramen?
The traditional way to eat ramen is by slurping the noodles and broth. This is believed to enhance the flavor and aroma. It’s also considered polite to slurp, as it shows you’re enjoying the meal. It’s also common to finish the entire bowl, although some people prefer to leave a small amount of broth.
3. What is the difference between ramen and pho?
Ramen and pho are both noodle soups, but they come from different culinary traditions. Ramen is a Japanese dish with wheat noodles and various broths like tonkotsu or shoyu, while pho is a Vietnamese dish typically made with rice noodles and a clear broth, often based on beef or chicken.
4. Are there vegetarian or vegan options for ramen?
Yes! Many ramen shops offer vegetarian and vegan ramen options. These broths are often made from vegetable stock or soy milk and may be topped with vegetables, tofu, and other plant-based ingredients.
5. Can ramen be eaten as a full meal?
Yes, ramen is a filling dish that can easily be enjoyed as a full meal. Many ramen bowls are served with substantial toppings, and the broth provides a hearty base. Some shops even offer side dishes like gyoza (dumplings) or rice to complement the ramen.
6. Is ramen healthy?
Ramen can be a hearty meal, but it’s often high in sodium and calories, especially if it’s a rich tonkotsu broth. However, there are healthier versions, such as ramen with a lighter broth or plant-based options, that are lower in calories and more balanced in nutrients.
7. Can ramen be customized?
Yes, many ramen shops allow you to customize your ramen. You can often adjust the broth richness, spice level, noodle firmness, and toppings according to your preferences. Some shops also offer “kaedama,” where you can request extra noodles if you finish the initial serving.
