History

The History of Ramen in Yamagata

In Yamagata, there is a unique culture where soba restaurants also serve ramen. This tradition dates back to the aftermath of the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923, when ramen chefs fled to Yamagata for refuge and chose to work at soba restaurants. These soba establishments adopted the ramen-making techniques from the chefs, resulting in a distinct local culture where ramen is served at soba restaurants--something rarely seen in other prefectures.

Additionally, Yamagata has a long-standing tradition of ordering ramen for delivery and serving it to guests. This custom has ingrained the habit of eating ramen from a young age. It may also be one of the reasons why many Yamagata residents are passionate about ramen.

One of the essential elements of Yamagata ramen is the soy sauce ("shoyu") used, which has a distinctive flavor unique to the region. Yamagata locals also have a culture of enjoying "imoni," a taro stew, which features a sweet and salty flavor profile made with sugar and soy sauce--a taste that is widely loved by the people of Yamagata.

Characteristics of Ramen in Yamagata City

A Wide Variety to Enjoy

Ramen in Yamagata City offers a wide range of flavors, including the classic soy sauce (shoyu), miso, and salt-based broths, as well as seafood and pork bone (tonkotsu) varieties. Some ramen is even served at soba restaurants, with each establishment offering its own unique twist on the dish.

A Rich Selection of Noodles

One distinctive feature of Yamagata's ramen is the variety of noodles available. From thin to thick, and from curly to straight, there are many types to choose from. Ramen shop owners carefully select the best type of noodle to match the soup, creating a diverse and rich food culture.

Use of Local Ingredients

Many ramen shops in Yamagata use locally sourced ingredients, allowing you to experience the flavors of the region. Yamagata's water also plays a significant role in enhancing the taste of the ramen. The soft water from the area brings out the flavors of the soup and accentuates the texture of the noodles.

Cold Ramen is Also Available

The origin of cold ramen is traced back to a soba restaurant in Yamagata City. When regular customers asked, "Since there is cold soba, why not cold ramen?" the dish was born. Over time, the culture of cold ramen spread throughout Yamagata.Today, many restaurants in the area offer cold ramen during the summer season.

Trends in Ramen Spending

The citizens of Yamagata City spend more on ramen than anyone else in Japan. According to statistics from 2009 to 2024, Yamagata City only missed the top spot in ramen spending twice! This data clearly shows how much the people of Yamagata love their ramen.

Top Spending City on Ramen (Annual Spending)

Chart of 2023 annual spending on Chuka

Top Spending City on Ramen (Annual Spending)

2023-2022 2021 2020-2013 2012 2011-2009
Yamagata City Niigata City Yamagata City Fukushima City Yamagata City

Source:Statistics Bureau of Japan

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