Top 5 Tonkotsu Ramen Spots in Ueno & Okachimachi

One of the must-try dishes when visiting Japan is undoubtedly ramen. Among the many styles, rich and creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen holds a special place in the country’s ramen culture. In this article, we’ll introduce five fantastic spots where you can enjoy authentic tonkotsu ramen in the Ueno and Okachimachi area. This bustling district is not only famous for sightseeing but also offers excellent shopping and cultural experiences, making it the perfect place to enjoy a delicious bowl of ramen in between adventures.

The Allure of Ueno & Okachimachi and Their Tonkotsu Ramen Scene

Located in the heart of Tokyo, Ueno and Okachimachi are easily accessible and packed with attractions. Ueno Park is home to museums, art galleries, and a zoo, making it a hotspot for tourists. Meanwhile, Ameyoko, a lively shopping street, offers everything from food and clothing to unique souvenirs at affordable prices, making it a paradise for bargain hunters.

Amidst this vibrant setting, you’ll find an array of distinctive tonkotsu ramen shops. Tonkotsu ramen is crafted from a broth made by simmering pork bones for hours, resulting in a rich yet silky-smooth soup. Typically paired with ultra-thin straight noodles, it’s often topped with slices of chashu (braised pork), green onions, bamboo shoots, and more. Now, let’s dive into the top five recommended spots for tonkotsu ramen in Ueno and Okachimachi!

1. Tokyo Jangara Ecute Ueno

Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/SgoQn4SHtjqahjRh6

Conveniently located inside JR Ueno Station’s Ecute shopping area, Tokyo Jangara serves authentic Kyushu-style tonkotsu ramen. This spot is part of the well-known Kyushu Jangara chain, which has other locations in Akihabara and Harajuku. The broth is creamy and flavorful without any overpowering pork odor, making it easy to enjoy. The thin noodles complement the broth perfectly, and the variety of toppings, including braised pork belly and spicy cod roe, are highly popular.

With a casual and welcoming atmosphere, this shop is a great choice for families with kids. Plus, since it’s located right inside the station, it’s an easy stop during your travels or shopping spree.

2. Hakata Ramen Nagahama-ya Ueno

Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/7MqD1MZeaguV2GyD7

(Source.1:https://www.tonkotsukun.com/menu)

Nagahama-ya is a specialty Hakata ramen shop with multiple locations across Tokyo. The Ueno branch is conveniently situated in the busy shopping district, making it an ideal stop during sightseeing or shopping breaks. True to the Hakata style, their ramen features extra-thin straight noodles and a deeply flavorful pork bone broth. A unique highlight here is the ability to customize your bowl with free toppings like pickled ginger and spicy mustard greens.

Beyond the classic tonkotsu ramen, they also offer variations like green onion ramen, kimchi ramen, and black garlic tonkotsu ramen, giving you plenty of options to suit your taste. With its counter seating and speedy service, it’s a great place for a quick yet satisfying meal.

3. Hakata Furyu Ueno

Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/hwatYmkmEifA4rXR7

A well-loved tonkotsu ramen chain with several branches in Tokyo, Hakata Furyu is famous for its two free servings of kaedama (extra noodles) per order. Their pork bone broth is rich and full-bodied but remains smooth and easy to drink. You can also choose the firmness of your noodles, from extra firm (barikata) to soft (yawa), ensuring the perfect texture for your preference.

With mostly counter seating, this shop is perfect for solo diners. It’s especially bustling during lunchtime, attracting both locals and tourists. Located within walking distance of Ueno Station, it’s a convenient spot to grab a delicious bowl of ramen while exploring the area.

4. Hakata Tonkotsu Ramen Ichiban Okachimachi Main Store

Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/nuzvNCC8CtdvYZhi7

Situated in the Okachimachi district, Hakata Tonkotsu Ramen Ichiban is a beloved ramen shop serving authentic Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen. Their soup is rich and flavorful, perfectly paired with ultra-thin noodles. A standout feature is the ability to adjust the soup richness, oil level, and spice level, allowing you to customize your bowl to your liking.

The cozy yet lively atmosphere makes it a fun dining experience, though you may encounter a line during peak hours. Open until late at night, this shop is also a popular choice for a post-drinks meal, attracting ramen lovers from all walks of life.

5. Wakura Okachimachi

Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/Eux6d87MmKXtWjadA

Wakura specializes in Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen, boasting a broth that takes 100 hours to prepare for maximum depth of flavor. Their ultra-thin straight noodles pair seamlessly with the creamy pork bone broth, offering a simple yet profoundly satisfying taste experience.

The casual setting and ticket-based ordering system make it easy for first-time visitors to navigate. With its prime location near Okachimachi Station and surrounded by other great eateries, Wakura is an excellent stop for those looking to indulge in a ramen tour of the area.

Conclusion

The Ueno and Okachimachi area is home to a fantastic selection of tonkotsu ramen shops, each with its unique charm. Whether you’re looking for a quick, casual bowl or a rich, deeply flavored experience, there’s something here for every ramen lover. Use this guide to find your perfect bowl, and make your Japan trip even more memorable with a steaming hot bowl of tonkotsu ramen!