Award-Winning Ramen in Fukuoka: Why You Need to Visit Hanamokoshi
When people think of Fukuoka ramen, one style immediately comes to mind—tonkotsu ramen. This rich, creamy pork bone broth has made the city a global ramen hotspot. But what if you’re looking for something different?
Mendo Hanamokoshi (麺道はなもこし), one of Fukuoka’s most celebrated ramen shops, serves some of the best shoyu ramen in the region. Hanamokoshi doesn’t do tonkotsu ramen. Instead, they’ve crafted a delicate, chicken-based ramen that stands out in a city dominated by heavy, pork-forward bowls.
If you’re searching for a unique ramen experience in Fukuoka, this award-winning shop needs to be on your list.
Hanamokoshi: A Hidden Gem in Fukuoka’s Ramen Scene
Fukuoka is packed with ramen joints, from tiny neighborhood spots to legendary institutions with decades of history. Hanamokoshi, however, is in a league of its own. Unlike most ramen shops in the area, it serves a refined, balanced bowl that leans on the flavors of chicken and fish rather than pork.
Located in Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture, this shop has gained a loyal following for its exceptional craft and attention to detail. Expect a clean, elegant presentation, delicate yet deep flavors, and perfectly paired toppings. The ramen here is on the lighter side, making it an excellent choice if you want something flavorful but not overwhelmingly rich.
Now, let’s dive into the bowls that make Hanamokoshi one of Fukuoka’s must-visit ramen destinations.
Chuukasoba – A Light and Elegant Ramen
Hanamokoshi’s signature bowl is its Chuukasoba (中華そば). While it might look simple at first glance, this bowl delivers layered flavors and refined balance.
Broth: The soup is made from whole chickens and multiple types of fish, including Pacific saury. The result is a broth that’s gentle yet flavorful, with a comforting warmth from the chicken and a sharper, slightly smoky depth from the fish.
Noodles: The thin, hand-pressed noodles have just the right amount of chew and are designed to soak up the umami-rich broth.
Toppings: Hanamokoshi keeps things simple but effective—kikurage (wood ear mushrooms), negi (spring onions), and both pork and chicken slices. The toppings complement the broth rather than overpower it, allowing each bite to feel balanced and intentional.
“American” Tori Soba – A Richer, Creamier Chicken Ramen
For something a little richer and more intense, Hanamokoshi offers the American Tori Soba. The name might be a bit confusing—what makes it “American”? While no one knows exactly why it’s called this, one thing is clear: it’s heavier than the Chuukasoba and delivers a bolder, more indulgent flavor.
Broth: This version leans more heavily on chicken, making it thicker and silkier than the Chuukasoba. However, it still retains Hanamokoshi’s signature balance, so it’s not overwhelming.
Flavor Options: You can order it spicy or sour—a rare customization in ramen shops! Most diners opt for the sour version, which features pickled radish in the center of the bowl, adding a refreshing acidity to cut through the richness.
Fish Influence: While the chicken is the dominant flavor, dried sardines and sea bream give the broth a subtle oceanic complexity.
Toppings: This bowl comes with a green mound of kelp, plus chicken and fish elements working together in harmony.
Why Hanamokoshi is One of Fukuoka’s Best Ramen Shops
It’s not just the unique menu that makes Hanamokoshi a top-ranked ramen shop—it’s the dedication to craft, precision, and quality ingredients. Here’s why people rave about it:
Refined, Non-Tonkotsu Ramen: In a city where tonkotsu reigns supreme, Hanamokoshi offers something refreshingly different.
Perfectly Balanced Broth: Whether you go for the light, elegant Chuukasoba or the richer American Tori Soba, the flavors are always smooth, layered, and satisfying.
Handmade Noodles: The thin, hand-pressed noodles have a fantastic texture and complement the broth beautifully.
A Must for Ramen Lovers: If you’re in Fukuoka and want to experience something outside of tonkotsu, this is one of the best places to go.
What to Expect When Visiting Hanamokoshi
Hanamokoshi is one of the most popular ramen shops in Fukuoka, so expect a wait. The shop itself is small and intimate, adding to its charm, but that also means limited seating. Plan accordingly and try to visit during off-peak hours if you want to avoid long lines.
Expect to queue – This place is small, and its reputation draws ramen lovers from all over.
Order at the counter – Like most ramen shops in Japan, you’ll likely need to purchase a ticket from a vending machine before sitting down.
Go early – Hanamokoshi sometimes sells out, so arriving early ensures you get your bowl.
Final Thoughts: Is Hanamokoshi Worth the Hype?
Absolutely. If you’re in Fukuoka, Hanamokoshi is a must-visit ramen shop—especially if you want a break from tonkotsu ramen. Their Chuukasoba is one of the best shoyu ramen bowls in Japan, while the American Tori Soba offers a richer, unique experience.
While it might not have the global fame of some of Fukuoka’s tonkotsu giants, Hanamokoshi has carved out a loyal following among serious ramen enthusiasts. So if you find yourself in Fukuoka, don’t miss the chance to taste one of Japan’s most unique ramen bowls!
