Hirosaki City in Aomori Prefecture is home to many ramen shops specializing in niboshi (dried sardine) broth. Below, we’ve rounded up some popular local favorites—why not find your new go-to bowl?

Takahashi Chuka Soba-ten

A top name in Hirosaki City’s niboshi ramen scene is Takahashi Chuka Soba-ten, located about a 3-minute walk from Naijoshi Station (JR Line).
Established in 1982, this local staple has been beloved by residents for over 40 years. It’s even been featured on TV, and ramen fans from outside the prefecture regularly visit just to eat here.

Their rich niboshi soup uses Japanese sardines, along with pork bones, chicken bones, and kombu kelp—simmered over a long period to create a deep, flavorful broth. The restaurant makes its own noodles from a blend of two types of wheat flour. Expect to wait in line, but the dining area is spacious, and service is quick. If you have time, it’s worth lining up to experience this long-loved ramen spot.

• Name: Takahashi Chuka Soba-ten
• Location: 1-3-6 Naijoshi, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori
• Tel: 0172-34-8348
• Hours: 11:00–16:00 (Last order 15:45; closes when broth sells out)
• Closed: Wednesdays
• Official Website: Website

Rairaiken

Another popular spot is Rairaiken, about a 10-minute walk from Hirosaki Castle. Founded in the late Taisho Period (1912–1926), it’s said to be the oldest ramen shop in Aomori. The current (third-generation) owner has preserved the old-fashioned taste while adjusting to changing diets over time.

The clear, refreshing broth is based on niboshi and yakiboshi (roasted dried fish) for a light yet richly flavored soup. The mild flavor pairs well with the shop’s homemade noodles, creating a nostalgic taste. Given its convenient location near Hirosaki Castle, it’s also a great stop before or after sightseeing and festivals.

• Name: Rairaiken
• Location: 16 Momori-machi, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori
• Tel: 0172-32-4828
• Hours: 11:00–14:20 (L.O.), 17:00–20:20 (L.O.)
• Closed: Thursdays
• Hirosaki City Tourism Info:Website

Niboshi Kessha Hirosaki

Located about a 10-minute walk from Chuo Hirosaki Station (Konan Railway), Niboshi Kessha Hirosaki greets you with walls of red brick, giving the shop a secret-base vibe. Orders are taken via a ticket machine, and turnover is quick.

The signature menu item is the “Niboshi Bancho,” a niboshi-based ramen made from three types of dried fish. Its deep umami, slight tang, and rich complexity make it a must-try for niboshi ramen fans. They also serve tsukemen (dipping noodles), gyoza, and curry dishes.

• Name: Niboshi Kessha Hirosaki
• Location: 1F Mikami Bldg., 9 Mototeramachi, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori
• Tel: 0172-55-6631
• Hours: 11:00–15:00 (L.O.14:30), 17:00–21:00 (L.O.20:30)
• Closed: Tuesdays
• Official:
  • Facebook
  • Instagram

Bunchan Ramen

Bunchan Ramen is about a 10-minute walk from Hirosaki Station (JR and Konan Railway lines). Founded in the late Showa Period, it’s now run by the second-generation owner. They adjust the source of niboshi depending on the season and prepare fresh dashi daily, showing true dedication. The homemade noodles are also blended differently each season for the best result.

Their “Chuka Soba,” topped with menma (bamboo shoots), chashu, and negi, has remained unchanged since day one—sure to evoke Showa-era memories for some. Other offerings include “Te-uchi Chuka” (handmade noodles) and “Dashi Soba” (highlighting concentrated niboshi flavor).

• Name: Bunchan Ramen
• Location: 2-1-2 Tanosaki, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori
• Tel: 0172-28-2400
• Hours: 11:00–15:45 (closes when broth sells out)
• Closed: Mondays
• Official Website: Website

Yasuke

Located about a 13-minute drive from Hirosaki Station via Prefectural Route 109 and National Route 7, Yasuke is another niboshi ramen shop. The broth is so cloudy from dried fish stock that you can’t see the bottom of the bowl—perfect if you prefer a robust, full-bodied niboshi flavor.

Popular menu items center on their niboshi soup, including the top-seller “Tokusen Niboshi,” and a richer “Seabura Koku Niboshi” (with extra back fat). You can choose a regular or large portion, and many customers can’t resist coming back for more.

• Name: Yasuke
• Location: 92-2 Yanagida, Horikoshi, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori
• Tel: 080-5568-4453
• Hours: 11:00–15:00, 17:00–20:00
• Closed: Thursdays
• Official: Tabelog

Maru Tetsu Nidaime (Maru Tetsu Second-Generation)

About a 6-minute drive from Nugui-koji Station (via Prefectural Routes 128 and 268), Maru Tetsu Nidaime serves niboshi-based ramen in two styles: the lighter “Saikō no Chuka” and the more specialized “Saikō no Gokuniboshi,” showcasing selected ingredients and techniques.

They also offer a robust selection of toppings—from extra chashu or menma to marinated eggs—and even serve bottled beer, making it a relaxing after-work ramen spot.

• Name: Maru Tetsu Nidaime
• Location: 58-1 Saitan, Sakai-seki, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori
• Tel: 0172-27-2730
• Hours: 11:00–15:00, 18:00–21:00
• Closed: Thursdays
• Official: Tabelog

Hirosaki: A City Teeming with Delicious Ramen

Which Spot Will You Try First?

In Hirosaki, you’ll find countless enticing ramen shops—from rich niboshi broths to classic old-school bowls cherished by locals. Where do you want to go next, maybe on your day off or after work?

We hope this article helps you discover your new favorite. Enjoy exploring the ramen scene in Hirosaki!