Gifu is home to a variety of ramen shops that offer everything from rich pork-based broths to light, clear soups rooted in local traditions like Takayama-style ramen. Whether you’re a ramen connoisseur or a first-time visitor, Gifu has something to satisfy every taste. This article introduces some of the top-rated ramen shops in Gifu, their highlights, and how to make the most of your visit.
Top 5 Must-Try Ramen Shops in Gifu
Here are five standout ramen shops in Gifu that are highly praised by locals and ramen lovers.
| Shop Name | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Raamen Rikidou | Choose from four types of noodles. Their thick, tender chashu and soy-based broth or tsukemen are especially popular. |
| Men Kishoku | Known for creative limited-time menus. Their clear salt-based ramen offers a well-balanced, refined flavor. |
| Menkiri Hakuryuu | Focuses on dried fish-based broth with simple yet deep flavors and chewy noodles. |
| Iekei Ramen Inabaya | Rich tonkotsu-soy sauce soup, thick noodles, and a variety of seasoning options at the table make it a favorite for hearty eaters. |
| Ramen Tsubasa | Offers creamy chicken or seafood-based soups with a smooth, springy noodle texture. Also features light, clear soup options. |
Choosing Ramen by Flavor and Area
Depending on your taste preferences and location, the ideal ramen experience in Gifu can vary.
By Flavor
- Rich and hearty (pork-based): Inabaya is ideal for those who enjoy thick, savory broth with rice on the side.
- Light and delicate (fish-based or salt-based): Hakuryuu provides a refined taste without being too heavy.
By Location
Popular ramen shops are concentrated around Gifu City, Ginan Town, and Kakamigahara. If you’re traveling, try ramen shops near train stations for easy access.
Tips to Enjoy Your Ramen Visit
To make the most of your ramen tour in Gifu, keep the following points in mind:
- Check the shop’s business hours and last order times.
- Some shops have irregular holidays—check their official pages or reviews.
- Pay attention to the types of noodles available (thick or thin) and adjust to your liking.
- Limited-time or seasonal items can be worth trying if available.
Popular Ramen Shops in Gifu: Comparison Table
Below is a comparison of popular ramen shops based on customer feedback and review site rankings.
| Shop | Why It’s Popular | Things to Note |
|---|---|---|
| Raamen Rikidou | Offers four noodle types for variety | Expect long queues during peak hours |
| Men Kishoku | Creative, seasonal ramen options keep regulars coming back | Some reviews mention slight flavor inconsistencies |
| Menkiri Hakuryuu | Excellent soup flavor and noodle balance | Parking may be limited, so plan ahead |
Summary
Gifu offers a diverse and satisfying ramen scene, from hearty pork broths to refined seafood-based soups. The five shops introduced in this article represent some of the region’s best, and are a great starting point for anyone looking to explore Gifu’s ramen culture. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, taking the time to try a few different styles and shops will reward your taste buds.
