If you’re exploring Hokkaido and find yourself in Asahikawa, don’t miss out on the chance to savor the city’s famous shoyu ramen. During my recent trip, I had the pleasure of dining at Ramen Ya Tenkin, renowned for serving some of the best ramen in Asahikawa. Here’s my experience and why this spot should be on your must-visit list.
Discovering Asahikawa’s Culinary Delights
My journey to Ramen Ya Tenkin began after a day trip to Biei using the Rail Pass. Asahikawa Station is a pivotal stop when traveling to Biei, and instead of merely passing through, I decided to explore what Asahikawa had to offer, especially in terms of its local cuisine.
Upon researching, I learned that Asahikawa is famous for its soy sauce-based shoyu ramen. Eager to taste this regional specialty, I headed straight to Ramen Ya Tenkin, a restaurant celebrated for its authentic flavors.
Location
Ramen Ya Tenkin is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Asahikawa Station. The stroll to the restaurant offers a glimpse into the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Asahikawa, making the short journey enjoyable.
Address: 9 Chome-1704-31 4 Jodori, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-0034, Japan
Operating Hours
- Open Daily: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
It’s worth noting that the restaurant can get busy during peak meal times, but I was fortunate to arrive when there was no waiting line.
An English menu is available, making ordering a breeze for international visitors. While shoyu ramen is the star of the show, Ramen Ya Tenkin also offers other Hokkaido favorites like miso ramen and salt ramen.
I opted for the signature shoyu ramen, enticed by its prominent placement on the menu. Please note that prices have increased slightly since my visit, with most ramen dishes now priced at around ¥900.
Inside the Restaurant
The interior of Ramen Ya Tenkin exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The open kitchen design allows you to watch the chefs at work, adding to the authentic dining experience. The staff were friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant visit.
Taste Test: The Best Shoyu Ramen in Asahikawa
Sapporo Beer
To start off, I ordered a bottle of Sapporo beer—a must-try when in Hokkaido. There’s something special about enjoying this iconic beer in its place of origin; it was refreshingly crisp and perfectly complemented the meal.
Shoyu Ramen
The shoyu ramen arrived steaming hot, featuring a rich, dark broth indicative of its soy sauce base. The bowl was generously topped with thick slices of chashu pork, bamboo shoots, and green onions.
Broth: The soup was rich, slightly oily, and packed with umami flavor. True to Japanese ramen style, it was on the saltier side, which I found delightful.
Noodles: The noodles were thick with a firm, chewy texture that absorbed the broth beautifully.
Toppings: The chashu pork was tender and flavorful, and the bamboo shoots added a nice crunch.
As a Korean, I couldn’t resist the urge to mix in some rice towards the end—a habit that made the meal even more satisfying.
Conclusion
My visit to Ramen Ya Tenkin in Asahikawa was a highlight of my Hokkaido trip. With its authentic shoyu ramen and welcoming atmosphere, it’s clear why this restaurant is considered one of the top ramen spots in Asahikawa.
If you’re planning a trip to Hokkaido and are looking for must-try foods in Asahikawa, I highly recommend stopping by Ramen Ya Tenkin. The combination of rich broth and perfectly cooked noodles is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Additional Recommendation:
While in Hokkaido, don’t miss out on Sapporo’s famous miso ramen. One standout is Ramen Shingen, a local favorite known for its long lines of eager patrons. For more details about this spot, check out my previous post linked below.
