Best Kyoto Tsukemen: 5 Must-Visit Shops
Kyoto is a city deeply rooted in tradition, and its food culture reflects that heritage. Among its many culinary treasures, tsukemen (dipping ramen) stands out as a must-try dish for ramen lovers. Unlike standard ramen, where the noodles swim in broth, tsukemen presents a different approach—thick, chewy noodles are served separately, meant to be dipped into an intensely flavored, concentrated broth.
Kyoto’s tsukemen scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering everything from rich, miso-based broths to delicate, silky chicken soups. Many of these shops take pride in making their noodles in-house, using premium ingredients and traditional techniques to create a dish that goes beyond just a quick meal.
If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, don’t just stick to standard ramen—make sure to try tsukemen at these five exceptional shops before you leave.
What is Kyoto Tsukemen and What Makes it Unique?
Unlike standard ramen, where noodles and broth are served together, tsukemen separates them, allowing the thick, bouncy noodles to retain their ideal texture while absorbing just the right amount of flavor with each dip. The broths, often simmered for hours or even days, achieve an unmatched concentration of umami, ranging from rich and hearty miso-based blends to light, velvety chicken broths and seafood-infused variations.
Beyond the broth, Kyoto’s dedication to noodle craftsmanship sets its tsukemen apart. Many shops create their noodles in-house using premium domestic wheat flour, resulting in strands that are thicker and chewier than standard ramen. Some even incorporate whole wheat flakes for a deeper, nutty flavor.
Toppings also elevate Kyoto’s tsukemen, with offerings like wagyu beef slices, fish-based oils, slow-cooked pork belly, and delicate bamboo shoots. This attention to detail—from the slow-simmered stocks to the meticulously prepared noodles and toppings—makes Kyoto one of the most exciting places in Japan to enjoy tsukemen.
5 Must Visit Kyoto Tsukemen Shops
If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, make sure to try these 5 best tsukemen shops and bring home a taste of authentic Japanese dipping ramen.
1. Kubota – Miso-Powered Excellence
One of the most popular tsukemen spots in Kyoto, Kubota (吟醸らーめん久保田 本店) is known for its rich miso-based broth infused with deep pork and fish flavors. The broth is thick, slightly spicy, and packed with umami, making it a must-try for those who love bold flavors.
The noodles are fat and chewy, designed to perfectly soak up the dense broth. Due to its central location, Kubota often has long lines, but the wait is well worth it. If you’re looking for the best miso tsukemen in Kyoto, Kubota should be at the top of your list.
Location: Near Kyoto Station
Tip: Purchase a meal ticket before lining up.
2. Menya Sanda – Chicken Broth Perfection
Unlike Kubota’s miso base, Menya Sanda (麺屋 さん田) specializes in a silky, chicken-based tsukemen broth made with only chicken and water. This results in an incredibly smooth, velvety texture with a lighter yet deeply flavorful taste.
Their house-made noodles, crafted from 100% domestic wheat flour, have the perfect firmness to pair with the rich broth. Since this shop is slightly lesser-known than Kubota, the lines tend to be shorter, making it a great stop for those looking for high-quality tsukemen without the wait.
Location: 10-minute walk from Shijo Station
Tip: Opt for the warm noodle (atsumori) version in winter.
3. Enaku – The Thickest Noodles in Kyoto
For those who love extra-thick noodles, Enaku (つけめん 恵那く) is the place to go. Their shoyu-based tsukemen broth is made from pork bones, chicken bones, dried fish, assorted vegetables, and mackerel oil, resulting in a balanced yet hearty flavor. Despite the addition of seafood, the broth doesn’t have an overpowering fishy taste.
Enaku’s signature thick noodles include whole wheat flakes, adding a slightly nutty flavor and chewy texture. You can choose between hot (atsumori) or cold (hiyamori) noodles, depending on your preference. If you’re looking for the thickest tsukemen noodles in Kyoto, Enaku is a must-visit.
Location: Close to Karasuma Oike Station
Tip: Try their black pepper-infused broth for a spicy kick.
4. Menya Takakura – Tsukemen with Wagyu Beef
Part of a well-known ramen collective, Menya Takakura (麺や 高倉二条) serves a pork and fish-based tsukemen broth that’s slightly lighter than other options on this list but equally delicious. Their noodles are thinner than the usual tsukemen variety, allowing for a smoother bite.
What makes Menya Takakura unique is their topping selection. You can customize your bowl with wagyu beef, pork slices, or beef motsu (innards). If you’re looking for a luxurious tsukemen experience in Kyoto, Menya Takakura is the place to be.
Location: Near Nijo Castle
Tip: The wagyu beef topping is highly recommended.
5. Kirari – The Sweet & Savory Tsukemen
For a unique take on tsukemen, Kirari (つけ麺 きらり) offers a sweet, umami-packed broth balanced by raw white onions for contrast. Their all-toppings tsukemen includes pork slices, egg, menma (bamboo shoots), and even a small portion of rice for soaking up any leftover broth.
Kirari also has a self-service microwave for reheating your broth—something rarely seen in other tsukemen shops. If you prefer a slightly sweeter profile in your dipping ramen, Kirari is a must-try.
Location: Near Kyoto Imperial Palace
Tip: Get the full toppings set for the complete experience.
Final Thoughts: Kyoto’s Best Tsukemen Shops
Kyoto’s tsukemen scene is a must-experience for anyone visiting Japan. Whether you’re a fan of thick miso broths, silky chicken soups, or unique sweet-savory blends, Kyoto has a tsukemen shop that will satisfy your cravings. Each of these five must-visit tsukemen shops showcases a different take on dipping ramen, making them essential stops on any foodie itinerary.
So, before you leave Kyoto, make sure to indulge in a bowl of tsukemen—and if you have space in your suitcase, bring some back home!
