Introduction
Hello, this is GOK from Daily Shinjuku.
Today, I visited “Umakara Tanmen Seiya Shinjuku,” a ramen shop in Kabukicho inspired by the legendary “Mouko Tanmen Nakamoto.”
Known for its addictive spiciness and deep umami, Seiya offers customizable spice levels for every palate—from mild to fiery hot.
A Nakamoto-Inspired Ramen Shop in Kabukicho
Umakara Tanmen Seiya Shinjuku takes inspiration from Mouko Tanmen Nakamoto, one of Japan’s most famous spicy ramen chains.
This is the brand’s second location, following its main branch in Kasugai, Aichi Prefecture.
The shop is located near the intersection along Kabukicho’s Kuyakusho-dori Street, just a 5-minute walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station.
I visited around 1 p.m. on a weekday.
Interior and Menu
The interior features a unique layout with 16 counter seats.
Each counter partition is designed like a small tiled roof—a quirky touch that’s sure to appeal to international visitors.
When I arrived, there was only one other customer, making it a calm and relaxed lunchtime experience.
Menu (selected items)
- Miso Tanmen (0-spice) – ¥1,050
- Umakara Tanmen (3 or 5-spice) – ¥1,200
- Umakara Tanmen (8 or 10-spice) – ¥1,300
- Umakara Mapo Tanmen (3, 5, 8-spice) – ¥1,300
- Seiya Tanmen (10-spice) – ¥1,200
- Spicy Miso Tanmen (3, 5-spice) – ¥1,100
- Seiya Ramen (10-spice) – ¥1,150
- Mapo Tanmen (3, 5, 8-spice) – ¥1,150
- Seiya Mapo Tanmen (10-spice) – ¥1,300
- TKG (Egg on Rice) – ¥300
- Rice – ¥250
Tickets are purchased in advance from the vending machine outside the entrance. Payment is cash only.
Spice levels can be adjusted—from 0 (no spice) up to a fiery 20.
Tasting the “Miso Tanmen” and “Umakara Tanmen”
Miso Tanmen (0-spice) – ¥1,050
A bowl loaded with stir-fried vegetables—bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots, leeks, and pork.
The roasted aroma of the vegetables pairs beautifully with the miso-based broth, which is rich yet gentle in flavor.
The medium-thick straight noodles are chewy, reminiscent of champon noodles.
Umakara Tanmen (3-spice) – ¥1,200
This bowl intensifies the flavor and heat.
Topped with fish powder, garlic, boiled egg, and green onions, it has a bold appearance and even bolder taste.
Despite the spiciness, a pleasant sweetness comes through, creating a highly addictive balance of heat and umami.
The broth also pairs wonderfully with white rice—highly recommended to turn it into a mini rice bowl.
Summary
Umakara Tanmen Seiya Shinjuku offers the perfect blend of spice, flavor, and comfort.
Even at 3-spice level, the heat is moderate enough to enjoy while still highlighting the ramen’s natural sweetness.
A bottle of vinegar is available on the table for adjusting the flavor mid-meal.
Generous portions of vegetables and hearty soup make for a deeply satisfying bowl.
Next time, I plan to try the “Umakara Mapo Tanmen” for an extra kick.
As the weather cools, this spicy ramen is an excellent way to warm up in Shinjuku.
Store Information
- Name: Umakara Tanmen Seiya Shinjuku
- Address: 1-3-13 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0021
- Nearest Station: 5-min walk from Seibu-Shinjuku Station (395 m)
- Hours: 11:00–14:00 / 18:00–7:00
- Closed: Irregular
- Outlets: ✕ Wi-Fi: ✕ Smoking: ✕
- Notes: 16 seats / No cards or electronic payments accepted
- Tabelog Rating: 3.43 (as of Oct 2025)
Looking for the original article in Japanese?
Click here to view the Japanese version on Daily Shinjuku.
👉 https://daily-shinjuku.tokyo/2025/10/19/kabukicho-umakara-seiya-shinjuku/
