When you think of Kyoto, images of serene temples, traditional culture, and quiet streets probably come to mind.
But Kyoto is also famous for something entirely different — ramen.
Across the city, beloved ramen shops line the streets, and among them, the Ichijoji area in Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward stands out as the ultimate hotspot.
Within just a few hundred meters, dozens of ramen shops compete for attention, drawing long lines from morning until night.
For ramen enthusiasts, this district is nothing short of a sacred pilgrimage site.
What Makes Ichijoji Special?
Ichijoji sits near Kyoto University and Kyoto Institute of Technology — a lively student district with a deep food culture.
Affordable, hearty meals have long been part of its charm, and over time, it’s become a magnet for unique and creative ramen shops.
Today, this once-local area has evolved into a nationally recognized battleground, where both legendary masters and bold newcomers serve their distinctive bowls.
From the station to Higashioji Street, ramen shops line up one after another, creating a scene that feels like an entire “ramen arcade.”
On weekends, you’ll see crowds of tourists and cars with license plates from all over Japan — proof that Ichijoji has become a true culinary landmark.
Must-Try Ramen Spots in Ichijoji
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Menya Gokkei
- Famous for its ultra-thick chicken broth — so rich it’s said you can “eat the soup.” This creamy, hearty ramen is a must for fans of bold flavors. Expect a line before the shop even opens.
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Takayasu
- A Kyoto favorite with a silky pork-based broth and medium noodles. Rich but smooth, it’s a comforting bowl that appeals to everyone. Don’t miss the giant fried chicken served as a combo meal — it’s practically a local legend.
Beyond these two heavyweights, Ichijoji offers endless variety — from rich, modern styles to nostalgic bowls of shoyu (soy sauce) ramen.
The magic of Ichijoji lies in how no two shops taste the same, making it the perfect place to experience Kyoto ramen in all its forms.
Getting to Ichijoji
Ichijoji is located slightly northeast of central Kyoto, not far from famous spots like Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) and Shisendo Temple — and it’s easier to reach than you might think.
🚌 By Bus
From Kyoto Station’s bus terminal, take City Bus #206 and get off at Takano (about 45–50 minutes).
From there, it’s just a short walk to the ramen-lined streets.
🚃 By Train
- Kyoto Station → (JR Nara Line) → Tofukuji Station
- Tofukuji Station → (Keihan Main Line) → Demachiyanagi Station
- Demachiyanagi Station → (Eizan Electric Railway) → Ichijoji Station
The total travel time is around 30–35 minutes.
From Ichijoji Station, it’s a 5–7 minute walk to Higashioji Street, where the famous ramen spots await.
The short ride on the small, nostalgic Eizan Electric Railway offers a charming, Kyoto-like atmosphere — worth the trip itself.
Ramen Adventures Near Kyoto Station
If you don’t have time to head north to Ichijoji, don’t worry — Kyoto Station itself is home to plenty of delicious options.
🍜 Kyoto Ramen Koji (Ramen Alley)
Located on the 10th floor of the Kyoto Station building, Kyoto Ramen Koji is a ramen theme park where famous shops from all over Japan gather in one place.
From Hokkaido’s miso ramen to Hakata’s tonkotsu, Tokyo’s soy sauce, and Kyoto’s own classics, you can enjoy a cross-country ramen tour without leaving the station.
The spacious, clean environment makes it ideal for families and travelers alike.
Shops rotate periodically, so there’s always something new to try.
It’s also the perfect spot to grab a quick meal before catching your train — truly an “all-in-one ramen trip” inside Kyoto Station.
🍥 The Two Legendary Shops Beside Kyoto Station
Right next to Kyoto Station, you’ll find two historic icons that helped shape Kyoto’s ramen identity.
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Honke Daiichi Asahi
- Founded in 1953, this shop is a Kyoto staple. The soy-based broth, thin noodles, and generous slices of pork make for a perfect balance.
Open from 7 AM, it’s a great spot for an early meal before your travels.
- Founded in 1953, this shop is a Kyoto staple. The soy-based broth, thin noodles, and generous slices of pork make for a perfect balance.
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Shinpuku Saikan Main Store
- Known for its dark, almost black broth — a Kyoto classic. Despite its deep color, the soup is surprisingly mild and pairs perfectly with their famous “black fried rice.”
Many locals come just for that signature combo.
- Known for its dark, almost black broth — a Kyoto classic. Despite its deep color, the soup is surprisingly mild and pairs perfectly with their famous “black fried rice.”
The two shops sit side by side, and both attract long lines from morning to night.
Locals even joke about being either “Daiichi Asahi loyalists” or “Shinpuku fans” — a friendly rivalry that’s become part of Kyoto’s food culture.
A Taste of Kyoto’s Culinary Culture
In Kyoto, ramen is more than a meal — it’s a reflection of the city’s spirit.
Just like its temples and traditions, ramen here embodies a balance between old and new.
Whether you’re exploring Ichijoji’s bold creations or sampling regional flavors at Kyoto Station, every bowl tells a story of innovation, pride, and passion.
So next time you’re wandering Kyoto’s historic streets, follow the comforting aroma of broth and noodles —
you might just discover a new side of this timeless city.