Kitakata ramen

Kitakata ramen is characterized by thick, flat, curly noodles in a rich soy sauce-based broth that is typically flavored with niboshi (sardines) and tonkotsu (pork bones). Soy sauce and niboshi are used in this ramen style because they have been produced in Kitakata for centuries, and the quality of both niboshi and soy sauce is quite high. After the noodles have been added to the broth, the dish is topped with spring onions, thinly sliced roasted pork known as chashu, naruto (groundfish), and fermented bamboo shoots. Interestingly, Kitakata has the highest per-capita number of ramen shops in Japan. In February, there is the town’s annual Ramen Festa, where renowned ramen artisans showcase their ramen skills.