Ramen is one of Japan’s most iconic dishes and a must-try experience for international travelers. While many visitors simply say “ramen,” there are actually many distinct types, each defined by its soup base or preparation style.
In this guide, we explain the main ramen types and introduce representative shops in Shinjuku where you can try each one.
What Is Ramen?
Ramen is a Japanese noodle dish made from wheat noodles served in broth and topped with ingredients such as sliced pork, green onions, seaweed, and bamboo shoots.
Although its origins trace back to Chinese noodle soups, ramen developed uniquely in Japan. Today, the most important factor in defining ramen is its soup base, which determines the overall flavor profile.
Basic Types of Ramen by Soup
Shoyu Ramen (soy sauce–based ramen)
Shoyu ramen is the most common and traditional style. The broth is made from chicken, pork, or seafood stock combined with soy sauce seasoning.
It offers a balanced and savory taste, making it an excellent starting point for first-time visitors.
Representative shop: Menya Sarusuberi
Address: 1-17-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Miso Ramen (miso-based ramen)
Miso ramen features a rich, slightly sweet broth made with fermented soybean paste. It has a deeper, heavier flavor compared to shoyu ramen.
This style is particularly satisfying during colder months.
Representative shop: Menya Sho Miso Dokoro
Address: 7-19-9 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Shio Ramen (salt-based ramen)
Shio ramen has a clear, lighter broth that highlights the natural flavors of the stock.
If you prefer something less oily and more delicate, this is a great option.
Representative shop: Rahmen & Onigiri Eddie
Address: 1-11-3 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Tonkotsu Ramen (pork bone ramen)
Tonkotsu ramen is made by boiling pork bones for many hours, producing a creamy, white broth.
It is rich and flavorful. Many tonkotsu shops offer “kaedama,” which allows you to order extra noodles after finishing your first serving.
Representative shop: Hakata Tenjin Shinjuku East Exit
Address: 3-22-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Popular Ramen Styles Beyond Soup Types
Tsukemen (dipping noodles)
Tsukemen serves noodles and broth separately. You dip the noodles into a thick, concentrated soup before eating.
This style delivers a stronger, more intense flavor experience.
Representative shop: Fuunji
Address: 2-14-3 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Abura Soba / Mazesoba (soupless ramen)
This ramen style contains no soup. Instead, noodles are mixed with sauce and oil at the bottom of the bowl.
You stir everything together before eating.
Representative shop: Tokyo Abura-gumi Shinjuku
Address: 1-13-3 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Iekei Ramen
Iekei ramen combines pork bone and soy sauce broth with thick noodles. It usually includes seaweed and spinach as toppings.
Customers can often customize the richness and oil level.
Representative shop: Yokohama Iekei Ramen Tetsuya Ichigaya
Address: 1-2 Ichigaya-Tamachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Jiro-style Ramen
Jiro-style ramen is known for its massive portions, thick noodles, and generous piles of bean sprouts and garlic.
It is bold, heavy, and best suited for those with a big appetite.
Representative shop: BUTAKIN Kabukicho
Address: 1-13-10 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Final Thoughts
To understand ramen, start with the four core soup types: Shoyu, Miso, Shio, and Tonkotsu. Then explore different styles such as Tsukemen or Jiro-style for a deeper experience.
Shinjuku is one of the best places to sample multiple ramen types within walking distance. Trying more than one style during your visit will give you a true taste of Japan’s ramen culture.
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