The best local ramen chains in Japan

Open from 6am to 1am daily, this long-established joint right by Kyoto Station is the flagship restaurant of the Daiichi Asahi lineage. Although the chain has branched out extensively, the founders still operate five locations nationwide, including this one. Their signature tonkotsu shoyu ramen comes topped with lean char siu and a generous helping of Kyoto’s Kujo green onion. The darkish broth strikes a perfect balance – not overly rich, not too light – making it a ramen worth starting your day with.

Todai is famed for its orthodox take on Tokushima ramen: a ‘sukiyaki-style’ bowl headlined by a rich, shoyu-flavoured tonkotsu broth and topped with a raw egg alongside tender braised pork belly simmered in a sweet and savoury sauce. The chain offers its classic flavour at 11 locations mainly in western Japan, including the city of Tokushima. Paired with a plate of gyoza, it makes the perfect hearty lunch. For a milder version, try Todai’s sister brand, Menoh.

Tenho ramen with a side of spicy, fluffy gyoza is the ultimate Nagano soul food. Fast, cheap and delicious, the noodle and dumpling chain has captured hearts and bellies across the prefecture with offerings like a mild dandanmen that wows with its nutty sesame aroma.

Established in 1947, Nishicho Taiki is the originator of Toyama Black ramen, with three locations throughout the prefecture. Intensely savoury, jet-black broth, spicy white onions, coarsely ground pepper, thick, satisfying noodles and generous servings of char siu combine for a bowl that’ll have your taste buds singing (and your sodium intake for the week maxed out). Order some rice and a raw egg on the side for the full monty.

Tonkotsu specialist Shin-Shin operates five shops in Hakata and one in the city of Kitakyushu. Its signature Hakata Junjo Ramen stands out with a light, juicy broth that tones down the characteristic pork bone aroma. To get your late-night fix, hit up the main restaurant in Tenjin, open until 3am.