Janmaru Ramen｜Minatogawa Park, Kobe

Today, I’d like to introduce Janmaru Ramen, a ramen shop located about a 5 minute walk from Minatogawa Park in Kobe.

After existing the subway station to the ground level and walking toward Okurayama, you will see the restaurant on your right. There is another ramen shop along the way, so be careful not to mistake it for the one you’re looking for. I’d like to visit that ramen shop another time.

I first visited Janmaru Ramen about 15 years ago, since then, I have been going there once or twice a year.

The distinctive feature of this restaurant’s ramen are its rich tonkotsu broth and homemade thin noodles. Despite its strong flavor, it can be enjoyed without feeling overwhelming.

Depending on how I feel that day, it can sometimes taste a bit salty, but I highly recommend it for those who enjoy rich ramen.

This time, I ordered the ‘Kokumaru Special’ ramen.

It’s a tonkotsu-based ramen topped with noodles, slices of roasted pork, wontons, a soft-boiled egg, green onions and bamboo shoots. Additionally, kimuchi and crispy garlic chips are served on a separate plate.

The Kokumaru Special was priced at 1,230 yen (at the time) , and you can choose the noodle portion from regular, large, extra-large. Additionally, you can choose the firmness of the noodles from soft, normal, firm, extra firm (bari-kata).

By the way, a noodle refill costs 140 yen, so if you can finish everything, ordering a large or extra-large portion from the start is a better deal.

This ramen shop is perfect for when you’re really hungry and want a hearty meal, so I highly recommend giving it a try.