If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, then you’ve probably heard of Ichiran, the famous ramen restaurant chain that serves only one type of ramen – the Tonkotsu Ramen. This delicious dish is especially popular at Ichiran, which has multiple locations throughout Japan. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Ichiran in Kyoto, exploring its history, atmosphere, culture, and nearby attractions.
Ichiran was founded in Fukuoka, Japan, in 1960, by Yoshitomi Okamoto. The restaurant quickly gained popularity for its unique approach to ramen, which focused on the broth. Ichiran’s Tonkotsu Ramen is made with pork bones that are boiled for hours, creating a rich and creamy broth that is the perfect base for the dish’s other ingredients.
Today, Ichiran has over 70 locations throughout Japan, as well as several international locations. Despite its growth, the restaurant has remained true to its roots, continuing to serve only Tonkotsu Ramen and maintaining its focus on the broth.
One of the things that sets Ichiran apart from other ramen restaurants is its unique dining experience. When you enter the restaurant, you’ll be greeted by a vending machine where you can purchase your meal ticket. Then, you’ll be led to a private booth, where you can enjoy your ramen in peace.
The booths are designed to create a sense of privacy and intimacy, with dividers between each booth and a curtain that can be pulled closed. This allows you to focus on your meal and enjoy the flavors of the Tonkotsu Ramen without any distractions.
Ichiran is more than just a restaurant – it’s a cultural experience. The restaurant’s focus on the broth is a reflection of the Japanese culture’s emphasis on quality and attention to detail. The private booths also reflect the Japanese value of privacy and respect for personal space.
In addition, Ichiran’s commitment to serving only Tonkotsu Ramen is a testament to the Japanese culture’s appreciation for simplicity and focus. By doing one thing and doing it well, Ichiran has become a beloved institution in Japan and beyond.
If you’re visiting Kyoto and want to try Ichiran’s famous Tonkotsu Ramen, you’re in luck – there’s a location in the city! The restaurant is located in the Gion district, which is known for its traditional architecture and geisha culture.
The nearest train station to Ichiran is Gion-Shijo Station, which is served by the Keihan Main Line. From there, it’s just a short walk to the restaurant. If you’re not sure how to get there, you can use Google Maps or another navigation app to guide you.
While you’re in the Gion district, there are plenty of other attractions to explore. One of the most popular is the Yasaka Shrine, which is located just a few blocks from Ichiran. This beautiful shrine is dedicated to the god of prosperity and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese culture.
Another nearby attraction is the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto. The temple is located on a hillside and offers stunning views of the city. It’s also home to several beautiful gardens and a waterfall.
If you’re looking for something to do late at night, there are several nearby spots that are open 24/7. One of the most popular is the Gion McDonald’s, which is located just a few blocks from Ichiran. This McDonald’s is famous for its unique architecture and is a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
If you’re a fan of ramen, then Ichiran is a must-visit destination in Japan. The restaurant’s focus on the broth and commitment to simplicity make it a unique and memorable dining experience. And with its location in the heart of Kyoto’s Gion district, there are plenty of other attractions to explore before or after your meal. So why not add Ichiran to your travel itinerary and discover the best ramen in Japan?