Here is the long-established ramen shop Ikaku-ya quietly standing in the cool back alley of Kokubunji.

The Homeland of Rich Soy Tonkotsu Ramen

Just one station away from the streets of Tokyo, nestled in this small town, is Ikaku-ya. This shop on the first floor of an old wooden building is known as the homeland of rich soy tonkotsu ramen.

Chunky Braised Pork Belly

Upon entering the store, the counter seats are lined with rich soup layered with soy sauce and back fat. The special braised pork belly that floats there has a distinctive chunky appearance. The thickness and slight sweetness of the umami spread in the mouth.

The Perfect Chewy Thin Noodles

Tangling with the soup is the unique thin and curly noodles. They have a firm texture and a chewy feel that complements the richness of the soup. As you eat, the noodles and soup intermingle more and more, and the deliciousness lasts until the last bite.

Free Rice for All

Here, a regular serving of ramen comes with complimentary all-you-can-eat rice, which is delightful. As the ramen goes down, so does the rice. In the end, the satisfaction of slurping down the soup in one go makes for a delightful taste.

Despite its old-fashioned appearance, Ikaku-ya shines with its commitment to flavor. It is a long-established shop loved by many, from ramen enthusiasts to tourists.