Travelers seeking a unique culinary adventure in Tokyo shouldn’t miss the Breakfast Ramen Tour in Shinjuku. This 2-hour experience immerses participants in the rich history and preparation of Japan’s beloved ramen dishes. Guided by an expert, guests savor mini bowls of shoyu and tonkotsu ramen, as well as gyoza dumplings, at two renowned shops. But the tour offers more than just delicious flavors – it also includes a ramen basics quiz, making it an engaging and educational journey through Tokyo’s vibrant ramen culture.

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Key Points

A 2-hour ramen tasting experience in Shinjuku, Tokyo, featuring 3 mini bowls of ramen, 2 gyoza dumplings, and 1 beverage.
Guided by an expert who provides insights into shoyu and tonkotsu ramen and engages participants in a ramen basics quiz.
Offers a quiet, early morning exploration of Shinjuku’s ramen shops, allowing for a more intimate experience.
Includes a train ticket if required and a convenient meeting point near Shinjuku station.
Offers private or small group options for a personalized culinary journey through Tokyo’s unique ramen culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Breakfast Ramen Tour in Shinjuku, Tokyo, offers a 2-hour experience that costs between $92.11 and $85.66 per person, providing up to a 7% savings.

The tour includes 3 mini bowls of ramen, 2 gyoza dumplings, 1 beverage, and a train ticket if required.

Participants can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and take advantage of the reserve now & pay later option.

The tour’s early morning visits provide a quieter experience of the Shinjuku area, allowing guests to explore ramen shops and learn about different ramen styles from an expert guide.

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Experience Highlights

Enjoy 3 mini bowls of ramen (1/3 size of full bowls) and gyoza for breakfast as you visit 2 different ramen shops in Shinjuku.

An expert guide will teach you about shoyu (soy sauce) and tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen. The early morning visits provide a quieter experience of the Shinjuku area.

At a nearby coffee shop, you’ll engage in ramen basics and test your knowledge before the shop visits.

At the first shop, you’ll savor classic Tokyo shoyu ramen and learn about its history.

Then, indulge in another mini bowl and gyoza at the second shop while exploring other ramen styles.

Meeting Point

Travelers meet in front of the 7-Eleven on Yasukuni-dori Avenue at the entrance of Kabukicho in Shinjuku, near Shinjuku station (East Exit).

The guide will be waiting with a Tokyo Ramen Tours sign, ready to welcome the group. This convenient location provides easy access to the starting point of the tour.

Guests can expect to see the guide holding a sign, making it simple to identify the meeting spot and join the group.

The tour kicks off promptly, allowing participants to make the most of their 2-hour breakfast ramen experience in Shinjuku.

Guided Tour Details

A live tour guide speaking English accompanies the participants throughout the breakfast ramen tour.

At a nearby coffee shop, the guide engages the group in ramen basics and a quiz to test their knowledge.

The tour then visits two ramen shops, where guests enjoy classic Tokyo shoyu ramen and learn about its history at the first spot.

At the second shop, they indulge in another mini bowl and gyoza dumplings while exploring different ramen styles.

Private or small group options are available, providing a more personalized experience.

The guided tour delivers an educational and delicious ramen journey in the heart of Shinjuku.

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Ramen Basics and Quiz

Before diving into the ramen shops, the guide first engages the group in a ramen basics quiz at a nearby coffee shop.

Participants test their knowledge on the different ramen types, ingredients, and preparation methods. The guide explains the origins and key characteristics of shoyu and tonkotsu ramen.

Guests learn how to identify the unique flavors and textures of each style. This interactive session ensures everyone is well-versed in ramen fundamentals before the shop visits.

It whets the appetite and piques curiosity, priming the group for a deeper appreciation of the artistry and diversity of Tokyo’s ramen culture.

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Shoyu Ramen History

Although shoyu ramen has its origins in the Chinese noodle dishes brought over to Japan, it has evolved into a uniquely Japanese culinary art form.

Shoyu ramen features a soy sauce-based broth that can take hours to prepare, with complex flavors and a rich, velvety texture. The noodles are typically straight and firm, providing the perfect vehicle for the robust broth.

Toppings like sliced pork, scallions, and soft-boiled eggs are common, adding additional layers of flavor and texture.

Shoyu ramen’s blend of tradition and innovation makes it a quintessential part of Tokyo’s vibrant ramen culture.

Tonkotsu Ramen Exploration

While shoyu ramen showcases the complexity of soy sauce, tonkotsu ramen highlights the richness of pork bone broth.

On the tour, guests will explore this beloved style and learn:

How long-simmered pork bones create a creamy, umami-packed broth.
The role of fat and collagen in achieving tonkotsu’s signature texture.
Regional variations, such as Hakata-style’s thin noodles and Kumamoto’s sweet undertones.

Diving into these nuances, the guide helps travelers develop a deeper appreciation for tonkotsu’s layered flavors.

The second ramen stop provides a chance to savor this revered style first-hand.

Traveler Reviews

Travelers have consistently praised the Breakfast Ramen Tour in Shinjuku, awarding it an impressive 5/5 rating across 7 reviews.

Highlights include the educational aspect, the guide’s attention to detail, and their friendly, knowledgeable approach.

Visitors appreciated discovering off-the-beaten-path ramen spots and enjoying a variety of ramen types, from classic shoyu to other styles.

The early morning timing provided a quieter experience of Shinjuku, which was highly recommended for early risers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour doesn’t mention any vegetarian or dietary restriction options. Guests should check with the tour provider about accommodating specific needs, as the focus appears to be on sampling traditional Tokyo-style ramen and gyoza.

Can I Substitute the Beverage for Another Option?

Yes, guests can typically substitute the included beverage for another option, such as a coffee or tea, during the Breakfast Ramen Tour. The tour aims to accommodate dietary preferences where possible.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price per person is fixed at $92.11 to $85.66, with up to 7% savings available, regardless of age.

Are Photography and Filming Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and filming are generally allowed during the tour. However, guests should be considerate of other participants and avoid disrupting the experience. It’s best to check with the guide for any specific guidelines.

Can I Join the Tour if I’m Running Late?

If running late, it’s best to contact the tour operator as soon as possible. They may accommodate late arrivals, but can’t guarantee availability for those who miss the scheduled meeting time. Early arrival is recommended to ensure a smooth start to the tour.

The Sum Up

The Breakfast Ramen Tour in Shinjuku, Tokyo, offers an engaging culinary experience for ramen enthusiasts. Participants savor mini-bowls of ramen and gyoza, learn about the history and preparation of shoyu and tonkotsu ramen, and test their ramen knowledge through a quiz. This tour provides a delightful way to start the day and take in Tokyo’s vibrant ramen culture.