How to Eat at ICHIRAN: A Step-by-Step Guide to Japan’s Most Famous Tonkotsu Ramen

1. Why is ICHIRAN so Popular? (The Solo Dining Experience)

If you are looking for ramen in Japan, the name “ICHIRAN” is unavoidable. It is arguably the most famous Tonkotsu (pork bone broth) ramen chain in the world.

But what makes it so special that people are willing to wait in line for over an hour?

The “Flavor Concentration Booth” 

The most unique feature of ICHIRAN is its seating system. Each seat is separated by wooden partitions, creating a private cubicle.

This is called the “Flavor Concentration Booth.” The philosophy is simple: Don’t talk, don’t look around—just focus entirely on the bowl in front of you.

For many travelers, this “Solo Dining” style is a fascinating cultural experience that you can’t find anywhere else.

The “No-Interaction” Service

At ICHIRAN, you don’t even have to see the staff’s faces.

When you sit down, a bamboo screen (Sudare) in front of you opens slightly for a pair of hands to take your order and serve your ramen.

After that, the screen closes, leaving you alone with your delicious meal. It’s perfect for those who want to eat in peace or for travelers who might be shy about their Japanese skills.

World-Class Tonkotsu Soup

Of course, the system isn’t the only reason for its fame.

Their soup is a creamy, rich, and flavorful Tonkotsu broth that has been perfected over decades.

It is consistently delicious, no matter which branch you visit, making it the “gold standard” for pork bone ramen.

Step 1: Buying Your Ticket

Before you sit down, you must buy a ticket at the vending machine.

One of the best things for international travelers is that major branches like Shinjuku and Shibuya now accept a wide range of payment methods.

• Credit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express, and Diners Club are widely accepted. This is very convenient as you don’t need to worry about having enough cash.

• Mobile & IC Payments: You can also use mobile apps (Apple Pay, Google Pay, WeChat Pay, Alipay) and Japanese transport cards (Suica, PASMO).

Payment Methods: Cards are Welcome, but Watch Out!

In major areas of Tokyo, such as Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, Ueno, and Asakusa, ICHIRAN branches are very digital-friendly.

You can easily pay with credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) and various mobile payments.

However, there is a crucial exception: As of January 2026, the Harajuku branch still only accepts CASH.

While many city-center shops are modernizing, some specific locations remain “Cash Only.”

To avoid a stressful situation at the front of the line, I highly recommend checking the entrance signs or keeping some Japanese Yen in your wallet just in case.

Step 2: The “Order Sheet” – When to Fill It Out

The Order Sheet is your tool to create the perfect bowl. However, the timing of when you receive it depends on the shop’s layout and how busy it is.

• While Waiting in Line: At busy branches, staff members often hand out the order sheets while you are still waiting outside or in the hallway. This helps speed up the process so your ramen can be prepared quickly once you sit down.

• At Your Seat: At less crowded shops, you might find the sheet already placed at your individual booth.

Pro Tip: If you are handed the sheet while waiting in line, don’t worry! You can use your translation app (Google Lens) to fill it out before you even enter the shop.

The “Back to Basics” Recommendation 

Once you are seated, you will find an Order Sheet on your desk. This is where the magic happens. You can customize every detail of your bowl.

While there are many choices, here is the “Golden Standard” for first-timers, recommended by a regular who has tried everything.

Pro Tip: As someone who has eaten Ichiran countless times, I always find myself returning to these “Medium/Standard” settings. It’s the most balanced way to enjoy their secret broth. However, if you’re feeling hungry or want a richer taste, switching “Richness” to “Rich” (こってり) is a great mood-based alternative!

4. Step 3: The Solo Booth Ritual (Calling the Staff)

Once you find your seat and pull the small bamboo screen down, you are in your own private ramen world. Now, it’s time to finalize your order.

Even if you don’t speak a word of Japanese, the system is designed to be seamless and stress-free.

Handing Over Your Tickets 

Look for a small call button on your table (usually near the water faucet).

1. Place your vending machine ticket and your completed order sheet at the edge of the table.

2. Press the call button.

3. A staff member will appear behind the screen, bow silently, and take your papers. You won’t even see their face!

The “No-Talk” Etiquette 

The beauty of ICHIRAN is that you don’t need to say a word.

The staff will communicate with a polite bow or by placing a small card on your table if they need to tell you something. If you need water, there is a private water tap at every booth.

Wait for the Magic Moment 

In a few minutes, the screen will open again, and your steaming bowl of ramen will be served. The staff will bow deeply and close the screen completely. This is the signal that your private feast has officially begun.

5. Step 4: How to Order “Kae-dama” (Noodle Refills)

In the world of Tonkotsu ramen, there is a special system called “Kae-dama.”

This allows you to order a second serving of noodles to finish your remaining soup. It is the best way to satisfy a big appetite!

Rule #1: Don’t Drink All Your Soup! 

This is the most important rule. Kae-dama is only for the noodles.

If you drink all your delicious broth, you will have nothing to put your new noodles into! To enjoy Kae-dama, try to keep at least half of your soup in the bowl.

How to Use the Metal Tray 

When you buy your ticket at the entrance, if you purchased a “Kae-dama” ticket, you will be given a small metal tray. This is your “magic remote” for more noodles.

1. Wait until you are almost finished: When you have just a few bites of your first serving of noodles left, it’s time to order.

2. Place the tray on the sensor: Look for the small rectangular sensor on your table (usually where the call button is). Place the metal tray on top of it.

3. The Melody: A traditional Japanese melody will play, notifying the staff. They will take the tray and bring your fresh noodles in a separate bowl.

Forgot to Buy a Kae-dama Ticket? 

Don’t worry! You can still order Kae-dama using cash.

• Look at your chopsticks’ paper wrapper. There is an order form printed on it.

• Circle “Kae-dama,” place your cash on the tray, and press the call button. The staff will handle the rest.

Tips for the Best Kae-dama Experience

• Change the noodle texture for your second round! If you chose “Medium” for your first bowl, try “Firm” (Katamene) for your Kae-dama. This allows you to experience a different bite and see which texture you prefer.

• Order before you finish your noodles. Don’t wait until your bowl is empty. To ensure your soup stays hot and you don’t have to wait with an empty bowl, place your Kae-dama tray on the sensor when you have about 3 bites of noodles left.

6. Locations & How to Avoid the 2-Hour Line

While ICHIRAN has many branches across Tokyo, they are almost always crowded due to their immense popularity.

If you visit a major branch in Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Asakusa during peak hours, be prepared to wait for 1 to 2 hours.

Here is how you can enjoy your ramen without spending half your day in line.

Strategy: The “Off-Peak” Magic Hours 

Most ICHIRAN branches in central Tokyo are open 24 hours.

If you want to skip the massive lines, timing is everything.

• The Best Window: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM After the lunch rush and before the dinner crowd arrives, the lines usually settle down. This is the most realistic time for travelers to visit.

• Late Night or Early Morning: If you are a night owl or an early riser, these are the “Golden Hours.”

• While not everyone wants ramen for breakfast, many locals swear that a bowl of ICHIRAN after a night of drinks is the ultimate soul food experience!

Note on Locations 

While shops in suburban areas (like Chiba or Saitama) are much less crowded, most travelers will stick to central Tokyo. Stick to the “Off-Peak” strategy for the following major branches:

• Shinjuku (3 locations)

• Shibuya (2 locations)＆Harajuku

• Ikebukuro(2 locations)

• Ueno & Asakusa (2 locations)

7. Conclusion: The Ultimate Solo Ramen Ritual

ICHIRAN is more than just a place to eat; it’s a uniquely Japanese cultural experience.

From the private booths to the silent service, every detail is designed to help you enjoy the perfect bowl of Tonkotsu ramen.

By following this guide, you can confidently navigate the system and customize your meal like a local. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, there’s always something new to discover in that rich, creamy broth.