Hello! I'm Kunihiko Hatori, a junior college student at Hitotsubashi University in Japan, and a member of the volleyball team there.
Thanks for visiting my blog.
I'm here to share my favorite Japanese food with you. While there are many dishes worth trying, I highly recommend Ramen! However, with countless varieties available, you may find it overwhelming to choose the right type. It depends on your preferences though; my personal favorite is Miso Ramen, which has a rich and savory flavor. Even if you're not a fan of miso, its presence in miso ramen is subtle and adds to the overall savoriness.
Additionally, Tonkotsu Ramen is another popular choice, especially in Kyushu (though you can still find delicious options in Tokyo). For those seeking a lighter option, consider Shio (salt) or Shoyu (soy sauce) Ramen, while Tonkotsu and Miso Ramen are richer choices.
However, there are two important points to note. Firstly, unlike American Ramen shops with extensive menus, Japanese shops tend to offer a more focused selection. I feel like in America they really love to have a gazillion options on the menu, just in case somebody wants whatever is right. But in Japan, they're kind of like “Nope. This is what we make.”
Then, in Japan, ordering Ramen is often done through a unique vending machine system, so it's important to understand how the ordering process works. There's a small ticket machine either in front of the shop or just inside the entrance. Initially, you put in the money for the Ramen you wanna buy, and then you press the button for that Ramen. Then, a ticket comes out, which you give to the staff to place your order. Some Ramen shops also allow you to specify details like noodle hardness, but if you simply say "Osusume de Onegaishimasu!" (which means “Recommendation please!”), it should be fine.
I encourage you to try these Ramen dishes! Whether you're traveling in Japan or starting your college life here, I wish you a wonderful experience.
P.S. If you’re (gonna be) a student at Hitotsubashi University, feel free to reach out on the SNS below—I'm always looking to make new friends from around the world. And if you're interested, consider joining our volleyball team!
Cheers!
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