Best Takayama Ramen – A Guide to Local Favorites - Japan Travel Sights

When visiting Hida Takayama, you’ll be captivated by its historic streets, seasonal landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

But among the must-try experiences, Takayama Ramen stands out as a beloved local specialty, enjoyed by both tourists and locals alike.

After a day of strolling through Takayama’s beautifully preserved old town, there’s nothing better than sitting down for a warm bowl of this simple yet deeply flavorful ramen.

Here’s everything you need to know about Takayama Ramen, including its origins, characteristics, and top restaurants to try!

What is Takayama Ramen?

Takayama Ramen, also known locally as “Chuka Soba” (中華そば), is a light yet flavorful soy sauce-based ramen with a clear broth and thin, curly noodles.

🍜 Key Characteristics:

• Light soy sauce broth: Made with chicken, seafood, vegetables, and shiitake mushrooms, giving it a deep umami taste.
• Thin, wavy noodles: Perfectly complementing the broth’s delicate flavors.
• Simple toppings: Often served with chashu (pork), green onions, and bamboo shoots.

📜 History:

• First created in 1938 at a local food stall called “Masago Soba”.
• Since then, Takayama Ramen has become a beloved comfort food in the region, with over 30 restaurants serving their unique variations.

🎥 Why is Takayama Ramen popular among tourists?

• It gained international attention after appearing in the anime movie “Your Name.”, where the characters are seen enjoying a bowl of Takayama Ramen.
• Despite its global recognition, locals still call it “Chuka Soba”, so you might not always find it labeled as “Takayama Ramen” in restaurants!

Best Takayama Ramen Restaurants

Here are six highly-rated restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Takayama Ramen.

1. Takayama Ramen Sanmachi

📍 Located in Takayama’s historic district, this ramen shop opened in 2022 but is rooted in decades of local history.

🍜 What makes it special?

• Created by Surugaya Uoichi, a local supermarket chain with a 90-year history.
• Based on their famous “Sanmachi Ramen” instant noodles, but freshly made in-store.
• Offers a light yet umami-rich soy sauce broth with a touch of kombu vinegar for extra depth.

📍 Address: 106-3 Kami-Sannomachi, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
❌ Closed: Wednesdays
🚶 Access: 13-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

2. Menya Toto

A cozy ramen shop with a traditional machiya-style exterior, just a 10-minute walk from Takayama Station.

🍜 What makes it special?

• Rich soy sauce broth infused with seafood and pork flavors.
• Grilled chashu rice bowl is a must-try side dish.

📍 Address: 1-50 Sowamachi, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: Contact the restaurant
🚶 Access: 10-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

3. Ramen Kamon

Located along the Miyagawa River, this shop specializes in locally sourced ingredients, including Hida chicken and Hida pork.

🍜 What makes it special?

• Signature “Special Takayama Ramen” featuring local meat and handmade noodles.
• Unique offerings like Tomato Paitan Ramen and Hida Chicken White Paitan Ramen.
• Stunning riverside views from the restaurant’s large glass windows.

📍 Address: 2-19 Honmachi, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: Contact the restaurant
🚶 Access: 11-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

4. Menya Shirakawa

This legendary ramen shop is one of the most popular in Takayama, often with long lines of locals and tourists.

🍜 What makes it special?

• 10-hour simmered broth made with chicken and bonito flakes.
• Rich yet refreshing flavor that keeps customers coming back.
• Simple yet perfected recipe with only one menu item: their signature Chuka Soba.

📍 Address: 56-2 Aioi-cho, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: Contact the restaurant
🚶 Access: 8-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

5. Hida Chuka Soba Takasago

This ramen shop is known for its delicate, umami-packed broth, made with locally sourced ingredients.

🍜 What makes it special?

• Uses kombu (kelp) and dried sardines for a gentle yet flavorful dashi broth.
• House-made menma (bamboo shoots) and chashu pork elevate the dish.
• Served with a side of pickled red turnips, a regional specialty.

📍 Address: 2-383 Ishiura-cho, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: Contact the restaurant
🚌 Access: 4-minute walk from Ishiura Community Center bus stop

6. Tsuzumi Soba (Since 1956)

One of Takayama’s oldest ramen shops, Tsuzumi Soba has been serving traditional Chuka Soba since 1956.

🍜 What makes it special?

• Classic soy sauce broth with a mild, balanced flavor.
• Popular dishes include Wantan Men (wonton noodles) and seasonal cold ramen.
• A favorite among locals as a late-night ramen spot.

📍 Address: 52 Asahi-cho, Takayama, Gifu
🕒 Hours: Contact the restaurant
🚶 Access: 8-minute walk from JR Takayama Station

Final Thoughts – Experience the Best Takayama Ramen!

Takayama Ramen is deeply connected to the city’s history and culture, making it a must-try dish for visitors.

✨ Why you should try it:
✅ Unique soy sauce-based broth with deep umami flavors.
✅ Light yet satisfying and perfect for any season.
✅ Over 30 shops to explore, each with their own twist.

Whether you prefer classic Chuka Soba or modern variations, Takayama offers some of the best ramen experiences in Japan.