Ichijoji Ramen Perfect Guide: Kyoto's Top Ramen Destinations
The Ichijoji area in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, is a compact neighborhood where many university students live, but it's also famous as a fierce battleground for ramen.
During the two years I spent as a graduate student in Kyoto, Ichijoji was an essential part of my student life. As soon as you get off at the nearest station, there are many ramen shops nearby. But for me as a student, the ramen shops in Ichijoji weren't just places to satisfy hunger.
Chatting with friends while slurping soup, or going alone to eat ramen in the middle of the night - the rich taste of Ichijoji ramen remains vivid in my memory.
But now, Ichijoji ramen is not just for students. It has become a popular spot that attracts many people from within Kyoto City and from other prefectures just for the ramen. Known as the birthplace of "Tenkaippin," which now has branches in various locations, Ichijoji can be called a ramen mecca that you should definitely visit when you come to Kyoto.
In this article, I'll introduce the history and characteristics of Ichijoji ramen, must-visit recommended shops, and nearby tourist spots, all based on my own student memories.
It's packed with real Ichijoji ramen information that I know because I lived there. Please read this article and fully enjoy the charm of Ichijoji when you visit!
If you are looking for Comprehensive Kyoto Guide, check the article below! I summarized how and where you can enjoy different areas of Kyoto as much as possible.
Takashi Nakadomari
Table of Contents
・What is the Ichijoji Area
・Why is Ichijoji a Ramen Spot?
・How to Access Ichijoji
・8 Famous Shops in the Ichijoji Area
・How to Enjoy Ichijoji Ramen
・Tourist Spots Around Ichijoji
・Frequently Asked Questions About Ichijoji Ramen
What is the Ichijoji Area
First, let me briefly explain the Ichijoji area. The Ichijoji area refers to the area around Ichijoji Station on the Eizan Electric Railway in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. It originally developed as a student town due to its proximity to universities like Kyoto University.
But now, Ichijoji is also famous as a fierce battleground for ramen. Believe it or not, there are more than 15 ramen shops within walking distance of Ichijoji Station. Not only students but also many people from within Kyoto City and other prefectures come specifically to eat ramen.
Because of the intense competition between shops, each offers unique and distinctive ramen. The popularity of ramen shops is evident from the fact that the Eizan Electric Railway, which runs through Ichijoji, even sells a "One-day pass that includes one bowl of ramen."
Website: https://eizandensha.co.jp/good-value/ramen/
Why is Ichijoji a Ramen Spot?
So why has Ichijoji become known as such a ramen spot?
The ramen boom in Ichijoji is said to have started in the 1970s. The trigger was the establishment of "Tenkaippin," which has now become a nationwide ramen chain, in this area. Its rich soup based on pork bone captured the hearts of ramen fans at that time.
Also, being an area where many university students live, including those from Kyoto University, is one of the reasons why ramen shops increased. For students, delicious and reasonable meals are attractive. Ramen shops started opening one after another.
With the spread of smartphones making word-of-mouth information spread quickly, the reputation of Ichijoji ramen spread further, and now it has established an unshakable position as a representative ramen spot in Kyoto.
However, compared to other tourist spots in Kyoto, there are fewer tourists. You can enjoy a slightly off-the-beaten-path and local atmosphere.
How to Access Ichijoji
Here, let me introduce how to access the Ichijoji area.
Ichijoji Station is a station on the Eizan Electric Railway, and many ramen shops are concentrated in front of the station.
You can easily access Ichijoji Station by changing to the Eizan Electric Railway at Demachiyanagi Station on the Keihan Electric Railway. Access is convenient as most famous shops are within a 5-minute walk from Ichijoji Station.
If you are interested in Eizan Railway, check the article below! I summarized how and where you can enjoy Eizan Railway as much as possible.
Takashi Nakadomari
8 Famous Shops in the Ichijoji Area
Now, I'll introduce recommended ramen shops in the Ichijoji area. Ramen shops in Ichijoji can be broadly divided into two categories: "rich" and "light."
The rich type is characterized by a thick soup based on pork bone and is very filling. On the other hand, the light type is characterized by a light taste based on soy sauce or chicken stock.
Since "Tenkaippin," which sparked the Ichijoji ramen trend, is of the rich type, I recommend trying shops of the rich type first.
5 Recommended Rich Ramen Shops for First-Time Visitors to Ichijoji
Here, I'll introduce five recommended ramen restaurants for those visiting this ramen town for the first time.
Tenkaippin Main Store
Source: Tabelog by eat and run
First, you can't miss "Tenkaippin Main Store," which sparked the Ichijoji ramen boom. Although it now has chain stores in various locations, ramen enthusiasts say that this main store in its birthplace is still the most delicious.
Their specialty is a very rich pork bone ramen that you'll never forget once you've tasted it. It's a bit of a walk from Ichijoji Station, but it's only about 15 minutes, so it's totally fine. If you're visiting Ichijoji for the first time, try experiencing the authentic taste here first.
<Store Information>
Address: 1F, 94 Ichijoji Tsukidacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8175
Closed: None
Phone: 075-722-0955
Hours: 11 AM–1 AM
Website: https://www.tenkaippin.co.jp/
Tententenyuu
Source: Tabelog by kenzie
You also can't miss "Tententenyuu," a long-established ramen shop founded in 1971. It's about a 7-minute walk from Ichijoji Station, so access is convenient.
They pride themselves on their soup made by simmering chicken and vegetables for a long time.
At first, I thought their ramen looked like it might have a light taste, but when I drank the soup, I was surprised by its rich and thick flavor.
If you've already been to Tenkaippin in other areas, I recommend you try this place.
<Store Information>
Address: 49 Ichijoji Nishisuginomiyacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8112
Closed: Wednesdays
Phone: 075-711-3255
Hours: 12 PM–10 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/kyoto/A2601/A260303/26000840/
Men-ya Gokkei
Source: Tabelog by mods35_2
"Men-ya Gokkei," located about a 5-minute walk from Ichijoji Station, is also one of the must-visit famous shops. The rich soup, which the owner, a former hairdresser, took 12 years to perfect, has captivated ramen enthusiasts not only in Kyoto but across the country.
The taste is addictive once you try it, and I visited many times when I was a student!
<Store Information>
Address: 29-7 Ichijoji Nishitojikawaracho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8123
Closed: Mondays
Phone: 075-711-3133
Hours: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Website: https://gokkei.amebaownd.com/
Ramen Jiro - Kyoto
Source: Tabelog by addict.
"Ramen Jiro - Kyoto" is located in a super convenient location, just a 1-minute walk from Ichijoji Station. It's a super-famous Jiro-style ramen shop that any ramen lover must have heard of.
It's characterized by ingredients that are twice as large as normal ramen and a punchy taste with garlic. The visual impact is big, but the taste is also quite intense. I recommend it for those who want to challenge themselves with a unique, volume-packed ramen.
<Store Information>
Address: 4 Ichijoji Satonomaecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8117
Closed: Wednesdays
Phone: Unavailable
Hours: 11 AM–2 PM, 6–9:30 PM
Hours (Saturdays, Sundays): 11 AM–2:30 PM, 5:30–9:30 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/kyoto/A2601/A260303/26028749/
Ramen Akihide
Source: Tabelog by addict.
Lastly, I'll introduce "Ramen Akihide," located about a 3-minute walk from Ichijoji Station. They pride themselves on their rich soup made by simmering pork bone and chicken stock for a long time.
It might be a bit hard to find as it's in a residential area, but it's a shop loved by locals who seek a rich taste. The simplicity of having only one menu item, this rich ramen, is also attractive.
The business hours are irregular, but you can check the operating status if you follow their X account. Since it's close to the station, you can try another shop if it's closed.
<Store Information>
Address: Akihide, 5-5 Ichijoji Kitaomarucho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8114
Closed: Irregular
Phone: Unavailable
Hours: Irregular
Website: https://x.com/eigyoakihide
3 Recommended Light Ramen Shops for Your Second Visit to Ichijoji
After conquering the rich ramen, why not challenge yourself with light ramen? I'll introduce shops where you can enjoy a light but deep taste.
Takayasu
Source: Tabelog by VIBES BY VIBES
"Takayasu," located about a 3-minute walk from Ichijoji Station, has been loved by ramen enthusiasts as a representative ramen shop in Kyoto since its establishment in 1999.
Their specialty is ramen with a simple yet deep taste based on pork bone and chicken stock. I always order the set menu with fried chicken, which I recommend as it fills you up.
<Store Information>
Address: 10 Ichijoji Takatsukicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8185
Closed: None
Phone: 075-721-4878
Hours: 11:30 AM–2 AM
Website: https://www.takayasuramen.com/
Men-ya Kiyo
Source: Tabelog by Katsuyan
"Men-ya Kiyo," located about a 4-minute walk from Ichijoji Station, is a ramen shop with a stylish and fashionable atmosphere. When you step inside, you feel like you're in a cafe.
However, the taste is authentic, and you can enjoy ramen with a delicate flavor that cherishes Kyoto's "dashi" culture. Their signature menu is soy sauce-based ramen, so please try it at least once.
<Store Information>
Address: 48 Ichijoji Haraitonocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8184
Closed: Thursdays
Phone: 075-606-5459
Hours: 11 AM–3 PM, 5:30–10 PM
Website: https://yukou-kiyo.com/kiyo.html
Chin-yu - Ichijoji Main Shop
Source: Tabelog by mori-no-kuma
Lastly, I'll introduce the long-established "Chin-yu Ichijoji Main Shop," located about a 4-minute walk from Ichijoji Station. It was founded in 1950, which is quite long ago, and the interior has a retro atmosphere.
The ramen is characterized by a mild taste based on chicken stock. Although it looks rich, it's surprisingly light and easy to eat. It's no wonder it has been loved for so long.
<Store Information>
Address: 24 Ichijoji Haraitonocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8184
Closed: Wednesdays
Phone: 075-702-2944
Hours: 11 AM–12 AM
Website: http://www.chinyu.jp/
How to Enjoy Ichijoji Ramen
Next, let me introduce two tips to enjoy Ichijoji ramen even more.
Order the Firmness of the Noodles
In many ramen shops in Ichijoji, you can specify the firmness of the noodles when ordering. The firmness of the noodles goes from "Bari-kata" (very firm), "Katame" (firm), "Futsu" (normal), to "Yawame" (soft), in order of softness.
Even the same firmness can be slightly different depending on the shop. If it's your first time at a shop, I recommend ordering "Futsu" (normal). I think finding your preferred firmness is one of the pleasures of ramen hopping.
Add Toppings
Adding toppings is another way to enjoy ramen. It's often an extra charge, but you can add different toppings depending on the shop, so please make use of this option.
I always add a flavored egg as a topping. The combination of the egg and the soup is the best! By experimenting with toppings, you can create your own original ramen.
Tourist Spots Around Ichijoji
If you've come all the way to Kyoto, you'll probably want to enjoy more than just ramen. Actually, there are many historical temples and shrines around Ichijoji, and there are many tourist spots you can visit while ramen hopping.
Enkō-ji Temple
First, I recommend "Enkō-ji Temple," which is about a 20-minute walk from Ichijoji Station. It's a temple famous for its beautiful garden and autumn leaves, and the scenery during the autumn leaf season in November is breathtakingly beautiful.
If you have a chance to visit Ichijoji, please make sure to stop by. I'm sure you'll experience a moving sensation that cleanses your soul.
Website: https://www.enkouji.jp/en/
Kuramadera Temple
Next is "Kuramadera Temple," a venerable temple founded in 770. It's a temple famous for its "Tengu" legend, nestled quietly in the mountains.
You can reach it by taking the Eizan Electric Railway Kurama Line, getting off at Kurama Station, and then walking for 30 minutes or taking a cable car.
After filling my stomach with ramen, I often leisurely walked the mountain path. The autumn scenery, in particular, is spectacular.
Website: http://www.kuramadera.or.jp/
If you are interested in Kuramadera Temple, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
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Kifune Shrine
Lastly, I'll introduce "Kifune Shrine," which is so old that its exact founding date is unknown. It's a shrine that enshrines the guardian deity of water and is also famous as a power spot for matchmaking.
The shrine, with its impressive red torii gates and long stone staircase, can be accessed by bus or on foot from Kibuneguchi Station on the Eizan Electric Railway Kurama Line. If you're wishing for success in love, please make sure to visit.
Website: https://kifunejinja.jp/en/
If you are interested in Kifune, check the article below! I summarized in more details and how I felt there.
sena kanda
Frequently Asked Questions About Ichijoji Ramen
Finally, I'll answer some common questions about Ichijoji ramen.
Are there vegetarian or halal menus available?
Unfortunately, most shops in this area do not offer vegetarian or halal menus. Many shops use pork bone-based soup, so it's not suitable for those who want to avoid pork for religious reasons.
Can I visit with children?
It's difficult to visit with infants. Many shops are small, and based on my actual experience, I think it would be difficult to bring a stroller inside. Very few shops have table seating. It's fine if the child is old enough to sit on a chair.
Are English menus available?
In Ichijoji, few shops provide English menus. However, signature dishes and popular items are often displayed with photos, so you can order by pointing at them. Most staff can only speak Japanese, so I recommend communicating with simple Japanese or by pointing.
What payment methods are accepted?
Most shops only accept cash. Very few shops accept credit cards or electronic money. I recommend preparing about 2,000 yen in cash per person in advance.
In this article, I've introduced in detail the ramen scene in Ichijoji, Kyoto. Ichijoji is still a bit of a hidden gem among Kyoto's ramen spots, but that's precisely why there are so many truly delicious shops.
For me, who spent my student days in Kyoto, Ichijoji ramen is a special existence that comes with memories. If you've become interested in Ichijoji ramen after reading this article, please visit this area and savor the taste!
If you are interested in Kyoto Best Ramen shops in 2024, check the article below! I summarized Kyoto Best Ramen shops I recommend and how I felt each ramen.
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