Discover Hiroshima's Best Ramen: A Guide to Must-Try Bowls
- 義成 布田
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
Hiroshima is well known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. While most visitors flock to the city for Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, there's another dish that deserves just as much attention—ramen. Whether you're a local or a traveler looking to experience the city's culinary scene, finding the best ramen in Hiroshima is an adventure in itself. This guide will take you through some of the top ramen spots in Hiroshima, helping you discover where to enjoy an unforgettable bowl of this Japanese favorite.
Why Hiroshima's Ramen Stands Out
Ramen in Hiroshima is a hidden gem, often overshadowed by the more famous ramen styles of Tokyo, Hakata, and Sapporo. However, Hiroshima’s ramen scene is diverse, offering everything from rich tonkotsu broths to lighter, shoyu-based soups. Many shops use locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea, which adds a unique flavor to their dishes. Additionally, Hiroshima ramen is often characterized by a slightly sweet yet savory broth, making it distinct from other regional varieties.
Best Ramen Shops in Hiroshima
To make your search easier, here are some of Hiroshima's best ramen restaurants, offering unique and delicious flavors that you shouldn't miss.
1. Ichiran Hiroshima
Ichiran is a globally recognized ramen chain, famous for its Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen. This location is perfect for those who love a rich, creamy pork bone broth with customizable toppings and spice levels. The individual seating booths allow for a fully immersive ramen experience, focusing solely on the flavors in front of you.
📍 Location: 6-11 Hondori, Naka Ward, Hiroshima
2. Shukaen (朱華園)
Shukaen is a legendary Hiroshima ramen spot known for its shoyu-based soup with a deep, umami-rich flavor. Their signature dish features crispy chashu pork and thick noodles, making it a must-visit for ramen lovers. The slightly sweet soy sauce broth is well-balanced and pairs perfectly with their house-made noodles.
📍 Location: Onomichi, Hiroshima (Short trip from Hiroshima City)
3. Ramen Kazu (らーめん かず)
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Ramen Kazu serves a Hiroshima-style spicy miso ramen that’s both hearty and flavorful. Their use of local ingredients and bold seasoning makes their ramen stand out, offering a satisfying experience for those who enjoy a little heat in their bowl.
📍 Location: 3-14 Fukuro-machi, Naka Ward, Hiroshima
Exploring Hiroshima’s Unique Ramen Styles
Hiroshima's ramen isn’t limited to just one style. Here are some of the popular variations you can find in the city:
Tonkotsu Ramen: Creamy, pork-based broth with thin noodles, commonly found in popular chains like Ichiran.
Shoyu Ramen: A soy sauce-based broth with a slightly sweet and umami-packed flavor, often paired with thick noodles.
Miso Ramen: Rich and slightly spicy miso-based soup, perfect for those who love bold flavors.
Seafood Ramen: Lighter broth infused with fresh seafood from Hiroshima’s coastal waters.
Tips for Enjoying Ramen in Hiroshima
If you're planning to explore Hiroshima’s ramen scene, here are some tips to enhance your experience:
Go During Off-Peak Hours: Ramen shops can get very busy, especially during lunch and dinner. Visiting between meal rushes ensures a more relaxed experience.
Customize Your Order: Many ramen spots offer customization options, including noodle firmness, broth richness, and spice levels.
Pair with Local Side Dishes: Many shops offer gyoza, rice bowls, or Hiroshima-style tsukemen (dipping noodles) to complement your ramen.
Check Local Reviews: Websites like RamenDB or Tabelog provide up-to-date recommendations from local diners.
Experience Hiroshima Beyond Ramen
While ramen is a must-try dish, Hiroshima offers a lot more in terms of food and culture. Don’t forget to explore the famous Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, or take a ferry to the breathtaking Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island.
Conclusion: Where to Find the Best Ramen in Hiroshima?
Hiroshima’s ramen scene is diverse and filled with incredible flavors waiting to be discovered. Whether you prefer a rich tonkotsu broth or a light seafood-infused soup, there’s something for every ramen lover in this city.
If you’ve tried ramen in Hiroshima and have a favorite spot, feel free to share your experience in the comments! And if you need more recommendations or tips on where to eat in Hiroshima, don’t hesitate to contact me through this blog.