Ichiran Tonkotsu Ramen: Why It’s So Famous
Japanese ramen is already a familiar food in Korea. It is popular in Japan because it is affordable, easy to access, and each ramen shop has its own unique flavor. Because ramen is delicious, convenient, and comforting, many people continue to seek it out, helping ramen culture grow into what it is today.
In Japan, it is common to hear about ramen specialty shops that have been passed down for generations. Ramen is more than just food—it is a soul food that many people love enough to support family-run businesses for decades.
Among regional ramen styles, Ichiran Ramen from Fukuoka stands out. It is so well known that people often wait in long lines just to eat it. Ichiran is loved not only by Japanese locals but also by Korean tourists. Its popularity is so strong that Ichiran released a tonkotsu ramen meal kit, now available worldwide through online shopping sites.
Even if you cannot visit the Ichiran main store in Fukuoka, you can still enjoy its flavor through overseas direct purchase.
How to Buy Ichiran Tonkotsu Ramen in Korea
There are two main ways to buy Ichiran Tonkotsu Ramen in Korea.
First option: Official importer in Korea
The biggest advantage is fast delivery, usually within one or two days. However, the price is relatively high. Depending on the store, direct import can be about 30% cheaper.
Second option: Overseas direct import
You can purchase it from Japanese-operated websites. The price is lower, but delivery usually takes about one week. For people who want to eat it immediately, this waiting time can feel long. As always, convenience comes with a higher cost.
Despite the wait, I chose the second option. The Ichiran ramen meal kit comes in 2-serving and 5-serving sets.
As of June 2024, the 5-serving set cost:
- 31,900 KRW via domestic purchase (free shipping)
- Under 22,000 KRW via direct import
This price difference made direct import very appealing.
Cooking Instructions
No matter the type of noodle dish, the key is simple: use the right amount of water and avoid overcooking the noodles.
Ichiran Tonkotsu Ramen is no exception. Thankfully, the cooking instructions are clearly shown with illustrations on the back of the package.
For one serving:
- Add 450 ml of water
- Boil for 2 minutes and 30 seconds
Even without understanding Japanese, the pictures make it easy to follow. Unless you aim to be a professional chef, cooking it quickly and enjoying it fresh is the best choice. Unlike Korean ramen, which usually uses about 550 ml of water, Ichiran uses less water for a richer broth.
Unboxing Experience
Opening the package along the dotted line reveals neatly arranged noodles and sauce packets. The packaging feels minimal but well designed.
I initially worried about portion size, but the noodles are individually bundled, making it easy to prepare exactly one serving. Since noodles shouldn’t be exposed to air for too long, it’s best to consume them relatively quickly after opening.
Final Taste Review
When cooked exactly according to the instructions, the ramen tasted quite salty. I haven’t eaten at the Ichiran main store in Fukuoka, so I can’t confirm if this saltiness is authentic.
Many reviews recommend adding more water, and next time I plan to use 550 ml, similar to Korean ramen. Aside from the saltiness, the ramen was rich, spicy, and satisfying. The spice level is mild enough for most Korean tastes, and the broth is not greasy.
After eating it, I understand why people line up for Ichiran and why it was turned into a meal kit. The flavor is comforting, bold, and easy to enjoy—even at home.
Ichiran Ramen – [ Link ]
