The Ultimate Yokkaichi Ramen Guide: 3 Shops You Must Try

Yokkaichi City in Mie Prefecture is a hidden gem for foodies. While it’s famous for its industrial night views, it’s also home to some of the highest-rated ramen shops in Western Japan. If you are looking for an authentic bowl of noodles, here are three essential stops.

1. Ramen Hachinoashiha (らーめん鉢ノ葦葉)

The Golden Standard of Salt-Based Ramen

Hachinoashiha is a legendary spot consistently ranked among the top ramen shops in the country. They specialize in Shio (salt) ramen, featuring a complex, clear broth made from high-quality seafood and chicken. Their homemade noodles are silky and pair perfectly with their signature “Wonton” toppings.

Vibe: Calm and artisanal. It’s a “pilgrimage” site for ramen lovers.
Price: ¥1,000 – ¥2,000
Access: A 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station (West Exit) or Asunarou Yokkaichi Station.
Closed: Mondays (If Monday is a holiday, they open and close the following Tuesday).
Note: Usually open for lunch only (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM).

2. Menya Sonidori (麺屋そにどり)

A Masterpiece of Soy Sauce & Dried Sardines

The owner trained at famous shops in Tokyo before opening this local favorite. Their specialty is Shoyu (soy sauce) ramen with a deep “Niboshi” (dried sardine) aroma. The broth is elegant, rich in umami, and lacks the bitterness often associated with fish-based soups. The shop’s name, “Sonidori,” refers to a Kingfisher bird, reflecting the colorful and precise presentation of the bowl.

Vibe: Modern, clean, and welcoming to solo travelers and small groups.
Price: ¥1,000 – ¥1,500
Access: About a 10-minute walk from Kawaramachi Station (Kintetsu Nagoya Line).
Closed: Tuesdays and Monday evenings.
Note: They offer both lunch (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM) and dinner (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM) sessions.

3. Hakata Ramen Namihei (博多ラーメンなみへい)

Authentic, Creamy Tonkotsu Experience

If you crave the rich, milky texture of Pork Bone (Tonkotsu) ramen, Namihei is the place to go. Despite being in Mie, it serves a bowl that rivals the best shops in Fukuoka. The soup is incredibly creamy but surprisingly clean-tasting. Don’t forget to order a “Kaedama” (noodle refill) if you have space!

Vibe: Energetic and casual. It’s very popular with locals, so expect a queue.
Price: ¥800 – ¥1,200
Access: A 10-15 minute walk from Ise-Kawashima Station (Kintetsu Yunoyama Line).
Closed: Irregular holidays (check their official status before going; often closed on Sundays or specific weekdays).
Note: Famous for early sell-outs. They often open as early as 10:00 AM on weekends and close once the soup runs out.

Pro Tip: Most of these shops use a Vending Machine system. You’ll need to buy a ticket at the entrance before sitting down. Cash is still king at many local ramen shops, so keep some JPY 1,000 bills handy!

Yokkaichi Plants Night View! It’s like SF world!

Ultimate Guide to Osu Shopping Street, Nagoya’s Most Colorful District

Cute Sweet “Piyorin”: Local Nagoya Favorite and How to Get Your Hands

Mie