Wakayama Ramen

Walk through Wakayama City and the aroma of soy sauce and pork bone rising from steaming bowls will draw you in. Locals call it chuka soba and slurp it happily from morning until night.

Highlights

The broth, simmered long from pork bones and blended with soy sauce, carries both a hearty depth and a surprising smoothness. Thin, straight noodles lift the soup beautifully. Nibbling pressed sushi or a soft boiled egg from the counter while you wait is a pleasure unique to this region.

Enjoying the Seasons

In the cold of winter the piping hot broth warms you to the core, while in the sweat of summer regulars deliberately take a hot bowl to feel refreshed afterward. Its comforting appeal knows no season.

Access and Basic Information

Shops old and new dot the city, and you can find a bowl within walking distance of JR Wakayama Station or Nankai Wakayamashi Station. Popular spots sometimes form lines, so allow yourself a little extra time.

A Quick Tip

Start by picking up a piece of the counter sushi and alternating it with sips of broth. The contrast of salt and gentle sourness keeps every mouthful fresh to the last.