Experience the magic of authentic Japanese ramen at its roots – the ICHIRAN Original Shop, also known to many as the main branch of ICHIRAN. Located in the heart of Fukuoka, this legendary ramen shop is where the journey of the world-famous chain began — a bucket-list destination for ramen fans worldwide.
Table of Contents
| Restaurant | Location | Price Level | Map Link |
| ICHIRAN Original Shop (Main Branch) | Fukuoka | ¥ | Google Maps |
For official hours and location, you can also visit the ICHIRAN Original Shop page on their official website.
A Deeper Look at Japan’s Ramen Culture and ICHIRAN’s Legacy
In Japan, ramen isn’t just food — it’s a culinary ritual. From neon-lit Tokyo alleys to tranquil countryside towns, ramen shops are part of everyday life. Yet, few ramen spots carry the global reputation of ICHIRAN, and even fewer can match the cultural status of its Original Shop in Fukuoka, sometimes referred to as the ICHIRAN main branch.
Founded in the 1960s under a different name, ICHIRAN quickly built a reputation for outstanding tonkotsu ramen. By the 1990s, it rebranded and revolutionized the ramen world with a combination of deep tradition and modern innovation. The first ICHIRAN location became more than a ramen shop — it became a culinary landmark.
The Booth Concept: Ramen Meets Mindfulness
What sets the ICHIRAN Original Shop apart from others — even other ICHIRAN branches — is its legendary “flavor concentration” booth system. Diners are seated individually in semi-private booths with a low bamboo curtain separating them from the kitchen staff.
This unique setup:
- Minimizes social distractions
- Encourages you to focus on aroma, texture, and flavor
- Is perfect for introverts, solo travelers, or ramen purists
It’s not just a gimmick — it’s a revolutionary ramen experience now imitated by ramen shops around the world.
Simple, Smart, and Tourist-Friendly Ordering
Worried about language barriers? Don’t be. The ICHIRAN Fukuoka main shop uses an intuitive, foreigner-friendly ordering system.
- Buy a ticket from a vending machine at the entrance.
- Customize your ramen on a slip (broth richness, spice level, noodle firmness).
- Hand in your ticket and wait for your ramen to appear, hot and ready.
This system combines speed, customization, and accessibility — ideal for international tourists and locals alike.
The Star of the Menu: Tonkotsu Ramen
At the core of ICHIRAN’s fame is its rich tonkotsu ramen. The broth is made by boiling pork bones over high heat for hours, resulting in a creamy, collagen-rich soup packed with deep umami flavor.
Key elements of the ICHIRAN main branch’s ramen:
- Thin, firm noodles that perfectly absorb the broth
- Melt-in-your-mouth chashu pork
- Seasoned soft-boiled egg
- Dried seaweed and scallions
- And the famous Original Spicy Red Sauce
Want the full experience? Order the “ICHIRAN Select Five” — a crowd favorite that features all the best toppings in one glorious bowl.
Want to make the most of your visit to the ICHIRAN Original Shop? Don’t miss our guide to the Top 7 Best Ramen Toppings That Locals Eating in Japan It’s packed with authentic topping ideas that will help you customize your bowl like a true local.
The Art of Ramen Craftsmanship
Though your dining space is minimal, what’s happening in the kitchen is complex and meticulous.
At the Original ICHIRAN location, the chefs are trained extensively to:
- Maintain consistent broth quality
- Cook noodles to millimeter precision
- Control ingredient temperatures and timing
The tonkotsu broth alone takes over 20 hours to make, simmered slowly to unlock every ounce of flavor from the pork bones. It’s a process that’s more culinary science than fast food.
Why the ICHIRAN Original Shop Is Special
Unlike newer branches in Tokyo, Kyoto, or even abroad, the main ICHIRAN branch in Fukuoka remains true to its roots:
- Decor includes vintage menus, photos, and ramen history displays
- You’ll find a mini ramen museum inside
- The shop retains its original architecture and ambiance
For many visitors, it’s not just a restaurant — it’s a pilgrimage to the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen as we know it.
Travel Tips: Making the Most of Your Visit
- When to Go: Early morning or late night to skip lines
- Open 24 Hours: Ideal for night owls and jet-lagged travelers
- Getting There: Just a few minutes from Fukuoka’s Hakata Station
- Bring Cash: While ICHIRAN accepts cards, QR code payments, and IC transit cards, machines may occasionally be under maintenance.
- Buy Souvenirs: Grab DIY ramen kits or branded ICHIRAN items
Cultural Tip: Slurp Loud and Proud
In Japan, slurping isn’t rude — it’s a compliment. Slurping noodles:
- Enhances the aroma of the broth
- Cools the noodles
- Shows you’re enjoying your meal
At ICHIRAN’s main branch, loud slurps aren’t just tolerated — they’re encouraged.
What Visitors Are Saying
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Why You Need to Visit ICHIRAN’s Original Shop
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, put ICHIRAN Original Shop (Main Branch) on your itinerary. It’s not just the first ICHIRAN location — it’s a window into Japan’s culinary heart. You’ll taste decades of ramen mastery in every bite, and the solo booth experience will change how you think about dining.
Skip the franchise versions for now and visit where it all began.
ICHIRAN Original Shop in Fukuoka isn’t just the best bowl of ramen you’ll ever eat — it’s the most meaningful one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICHIRAN Original Shop?
The ICHIRAN Original Shop is the first and main branch of ICHIRAN ramen, located in Fukuoka, Japan. It’s the birthplace of the iconic tonkotsu ramen chain known for its solo dining booths and rich pork-based broth.
Where is the ICHIRAN main branch located?
The main ICHIRAN branch, also known as the Original Shop, is located in Fukuoka, Japan. It’s near Hakata Station and is easily accessible by public transport.
What makes the ICHIRAN Original Shop different from other locations?
Unlike other ICHIRAN branches, the Original Shop offers a nostalgic atmosphere, vintage ramen displays, and a mini exhibit of the brand’s history.
It’s the only ICHIRAN location that combines traditional ramen culture with modern dining innovation.
Is the ICHIRAN Original Shop open 24 hours?
Yes, the ICHIRAN Original Shop in Fukuoka is open 24 hours a day, making it a great late-night dining option for travelers and locals.
Do they have English menus at ICHIRAN Fukuoka?
Yes, the ICHIRAN Original Shop is tourist-friendly and provides English menus, along with a simple ticketing and customization system for non-Japanese speakers.
What is the best item to order at ICHIRAN Original Shop?
The most recommended item is the “ICHIRAN Select Five,” which includes tonkotsu ramen with chashu pork, a soft-boiled egg, seaweed, mushrooms, and scallions.
You can customize the spice level, noodle firmness, and broth richness.
Can I visit ICHIRAN Original Shop without a reservation?
Yes, no reservations are needed. It’s first-come, first-served. However, there can be long lines during peak hours, so visiting early morning or late night is recommended.
Is ICHIRAN Original Shop suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely! ICHIRAN is famous for its solo “flavor concentration” booths, making it the perfect dining experience for solo travelers in Japan.
Can I buy ICHIRAN souvenirs at the main branch?
Yes, the Original Shop offers ICHIRAN ramen kits, branded bowls, chopsticks, and other exclusive souvenirs that you can take home.
Is the ICHIRAN Original Shop worth visiting?
Yes, the ICHIRAN Original Shop is considered a must-visit ramen destination for anyone traveling to Fukuoka. It offers a truly unique and authentic Japanese dining experience.