Ramen Museum

The Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum, often simply called the Ramen Museum, is a one-of-a-kind food-themed attraction located in Yokohama, Japan. Opened in 1994, it is the world’s first food-themed amusement park dedicated to ramen, Japan’s beloved noodle dish. It is not only a museum that educates visitors about the history and culture of ramen, but also a vibrant food court with authentic ramen shops from across Japan.

Inside the museum, you can explore a recreated street scene from 1958 Tokyo—the year instant ramen was invented—and sample a variety of regional ramen styles without leaving the city. For ramen enthusiasts and curious food lovers, this is an immersive and delicious experience that combines culture, history, and, of course, plenty of slurping.

How to Reach Ramen Museum, Yokohama

The Ramen Museum is conveniently located in the Shin-Yokohama area of Yokohama and is very accessible by public transportation.

• By Train: The easiest way is to take the JR Yokohama Line, Yokohama Municipal Subway, or Tokaido Shinkansen to Shin-Yokohama Station. From the station, the museum is just a 5-minute walk.
• From Tokyo: It takes approximately 30–45 minutes via train. You can take the JR Yokohama Line or the Shinkansen for a quicker trip.
• By Car: Paid parking is available nearby, but public transport is recommended during busy seasons.

Clear signs and directions are available in both Japanese and English, making it easy for international travelers to find.

Weather in Yokohama

Yokohama has a temperate climate, making it a great destination to visit year-round. Since the Ramen Museum is indoors, it’s an especially good choice for rainy or cold days.

• Spring (March–May): Mild and comfortable, ideal for combining the museum visit with nearby parks or attractions.
• Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, a perfect time to enjoy the air-conditioned museum and cold ramen varieties.
• Autumn (September–November): Cool and pleasant with beautiful outdoor foliage nearby.
• Winter (December–February): Cold but cozy indoors, warm ramen is extra satisfying during this time.

Timing of Ramen Museum

The museum operates almost every day of the year with the following schedule:

• Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last entry around 8:00 PM)
• Holidays: Open year-round but may close on select days for maintenance (check the official website before visiting).
• Weekends: Can be crowded, especially around lunchtime.

It’s best to visit during weekdays or early hours to avoid long queues at popular ramen stalls inside.

Why Famous for Ramen Museum, Yokohama?

The Ramen Museum is famous for being the first place in the world to combine a cultural museum with an immersive dining experience dedicated entirely to ramen. It showcases:

• The history and evolution of ramen in Japan.
• A 1950s-era recreation of a Japanese town, where ramen culture was thriving.
• Authentic ramen shops representing various regions of Japan like Sapporo, Hakata, and Kumamoto.
• Occasional guest restaurants from overseas, showcasing international ramen styles.

For tourists, the museum offers a fun and flavorful way to explore Japanese culinary culture in a single stop.

Entry and Visit Details about Ramen Museum, Yokohama

The entrance fee is modest and includes access to the exhibits and retro food court.

• Adults: ¥380
• Children (6–12): ¥100
• Children under 6: Free
• Senior Citizens (60+): ¥100

Tickets can be bought at the entrance. There are additional costs if you choose to eat at the ramen stalls inside, with mini ramen bowls starting around ¥500 and full-size bowls ranging from ¥900 to ¥1200.

Credit cards and IC cards (like Suica and Pasmo) are accepted at many stalls. English-speaking staff and menus are available.

History and Architecture

The Ramen Museum was opened in March 1994 as an effort to preserve and celebrate Japan’s growing ramen culture. Ramen had become a nationwide phenomenon, and this museum helped elevate it from a fast food to a respected cultural symbol.

One of the museum’s most beloved features is its Showa-era streetscape, a full-scale reproduction of Tokyo circa 1958—the year when instant ramen was first invented. This two-story setting includes retro storefronts, old-style lighting, music, and design elements that bring nostalgia to older visitors and charm to new ones.

Things to Do at Ramen Museum, Yokohama

• Try Regional Ramen: Taste different styles from across Japan, including miso, tonkotsu, soy sauce, and more.
• Explore the History Exhibits: Learn about ramen’s origins, regional differences, and its global rise.
• Visit the Gift Shop: Purchase ramen-themed souvenirs, instant ramen kits, and local ingredients.
• Create Your Own Ramen (Occasionally): Participate in ramen-making workshops when available.
• Walk Through Retro Japan: Take photos and experience the 1950s street replica inside the museum.

Facts and Tips about Ramen Museum, Yokohama

• Mini ramen portions are available so you can sample multiple varieties.
• Some ramen shops inside rotate every few months, giving you something new to try with each visit.
• Vegetarian and halal options are limited but expanding—ask staff for guidance.
• Expect to wait in line at the most popular stalls, especially on weekends.
• Photography is allowed, especially in the retro-styled area—it’s very Instagram-friendly.
• Great for kids and families, but also popular among foodies and solo travelers.
• You can exit and re-enter the museum on the same day with your ticket.

Whether you're a ramen lover or a curious traveler, the Ramen Museum in Yokohama provides a rich, fun, and flavorful experience that’s hard to find anywhere else. It blends food, history, and culture into one unforgettable attraction. A must-visit for anyone wanting to slurp their way through Japanese cuisine!