Top 18 Most Popular Ramen Shops Near Higashi-Nakano Station

Higashi-Nakano Station is an area where residential streets and the charm of old-school Tokyo converge, conveniently accessible from both Shinjuku and Nakano. Despite its calm atmosphere, it is actually a highly competitive battlefield for ramen, offering everything from renowned institutions to hidden gems. With a lineup that includes traditional Chinese-style noodles, rich chicken-based paitan, and unique abura-soba, it’s a paradise for any ramen lover. In recent years, ambitious new shops that draw inevitable lines have been opening one after another, making it a neighborhood where you find something new every time you visit. In this article, we will introduce the most popular ramen shops around Higashi-Nakano Station in a ranking format. This is an essential guide for local residents and visitors alike.

Top 18 Recommended Ramen Shops Near Higashi-Nakano Station

While Higashi-Nakano is often seen as a quiet residential area, it is secretly a hotbed for unique and diverse ramen shops. You can enjoy a wide variety of bowls, from traditional soy sauce ramen to rich chicken paitan, tsukemen, and abura-soba. The appeal lies in its breadth of choice, ranging from long-standing shops loved by local regulars to highly-rated up-and-coming establishments. Here, based on the number of reviews and ratings, we introduce the top 18 ramen shops in Higashi-Nakano that you truly must try.

#1: Kashiwagi (4.1 stars / 926 reviews)

 

Kashiwagi is an indispensable institution when discussing the Higashi-Nakano ramen scene. It is known for its "clear broth" (chintan) style, featuring a beautifully elegant aroma with an exquisite balance of chicken and seafood. The "Shoyu Ramen" is particularly notable for the rich aroma and deep umami of the soy sauce, creating a flavor so compelling you'll want to drink every last drop. The calm interior is welcoming for solo diners, making it a popular destination for both locals and ramen fans visiting from afar.

Store Information

• Address: 1-36-7 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 4-minute walk from Higashi-Nakano Station East Exit (JR)
• Hours: 11:30 - 15:00
• Closed: Tuesdays
• Phone Number: —

 

#2: Mendokoro Kinari (4.1 stars / 695 reviews)

 

Mendokoro Kinari is a popular shop dedicated to ramen made without chemical seasonings (muka-cho). The soup, carefully built from both animal and seafood stocks, is mellow and lets the quality of the ingredients shine through. Their signature "Shoyu Ramen" is renowned for its clean yet deeply complex flavor that never gets tiring. The thin noodles go down smoothly and pair perfectly with the broth. This is an impressive Higashi-Nakano shop that every ramen lover should visit at least once.

Store Information

• Address: 1F Daishō Building, 1-51-4 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 1-minute walk from Higashi-Nakano Station East Exit (JR)
• Hours: 11:30 - 14:30 / 18:00 - 21:00
• Closed: Wednesdays
• Phone Number: 03-6279-1273

 

#3: Menya Baku (3.7 stars / 456 reviews)

 

Menya Baku is an Iekei-style ramen shop that has been loved in Higashi-Nakano for many years. It features the classic style of rich tonkotsu-shoyu soup with medium-thick noodles, and you can enjoy customizing the flavor with table-side seasonings like garlic and chili bean paste (doubanjiang). It goes perfectly with rice, and many regulars order them together. This community-focused shop has satisfied the hunger of students and salarymen for years with its traditional vibe and hearty portions.

Store Information

• Address: 1F Yamauchi Building, 4-4-3 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 1-minute walk from Higashi-Nakano Station West Exit (JR)
• Hours: 11:00 - 03:00
• Closed: Open every day
• Phone Number: 03-3366-2310

 

#4: Noko Tori Paitan Ramen 3 (Three) (3.5 stars / 18 reviews)

 

Noko Tori Paitan Ramen 3 is an up-and-coming ramen shop that has opened in Higashi-Nakano. It features a creamy chicken paitan soup, offering a rich flavor that condenses the umami of chicken. Although the number of reviews is still small, it has begun to gain support from women and families and looks like a spot to watch. It's easy to stop by near the station, so chicken paitan lovers should definitely give it a try.

Store Information

• Address: 4-2-27 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 1-minute walk from Higashi-Nakano Station West Exit (JR)
• Hours: Mon/Thu/Fri/Sat/Sun 12:00 - 14:30 / 17:30 - 23:00
• Closed: Tuesdays and Wednesdays
• Phone Number: —

 

#5: Taiseiken (4.0 stars / 1,620 reviews)

 

Taiseiken is a staple "machi-chuka" (neighborhood Chinese) restaurant loved in Higashi-Nakano for over 40 years. Their signature "Teppan-men" is a unique style where you combine stir-fried vegetables and a soft-boiled egg served on a sizzling hot plate with soy sauce ramen. It is a popular destination for both locals and fans traveling from afar. Its hearty portions, reasonable prices, and old-school atmosphere are part of its charm. With a rich menu of Chinese dishes, it's one of Higashi-Nakano's most iconic spots, always bustling with families and salarymen.

Store Information

• Address: 1F Murakami Building, 1-51-1 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 1-minute walk from Higashi-Nakano Station East Exit (JR)
• Hours: 11:00 - 22:00
• Closed: Mondays (if it falls on a holiday, the next day)
• Phone Number: 03-3371-5743

 

#6: Kaedeya (4.0 stars / 293 reviews)

 

Kaedeya is a hidden-gem ramen shop located in the residential streets of Higashi-Nakano. Their bowl, which pairs a rich tonkotsu-shoyu base soup with medium-thick noodles, has high support among Iekei fans. Toppings are the classic combination of chashu, spinach, and nori, and it pairs perfectly with rice. The calm atmosphere of the restaurant makes it a space where you can easily stop by alone. It is a popular shop known only to those in the know, with many regulars who appreciate its grounded, warm, community-based spirit.

Store Information

• Address: 1-50-1 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 3-minute walk from Higashi-Nakano Station East Exit (JR)
• Hours: 11:00 - 23:00
• Closed: —
• Phone Number: 03-3361-1520

 

#7: Tsukemen Shiroboshi (4.3 stars / 264 reviews)

 

Tsukemen Shiroboshi is a skilled specialty shop popular for its rich, seafood-tonkotsu-based dipping broth. The umami-packed soup pairs perfectly with the thick, chewy noodles, leaving you completely satisfied. The flame-seared chashu and seasoned eggs are also highly rated, and you can enjoy an even deeper flavor by ordering "soup-wari" (diluting the remaining dipping broth with hot soup) after finishing the noodles. Located close to the station, it is a notable shop that often has queues during lunchtime.

Store Information

• Address: 1F Sanwa Mansion, 5-6-8 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 3-minute walk from Higashi-Nakano Station East Exit (JR)
• Hours: Tue/Wed/Fri/Sat 11:00 - 14:00, Thu/Sun/Holidays 11:00 - 15:00
• Closed: Mondays *If Monday is a holiday, it remains open and closes the following day.
• Phone Number: 03-5937-4510

 

#8: Menya Harushin (4.1 stars / 118 reviews)

 

Menya Harushin is a shop gaining attention for its chemical-free (muka-cho) ramen that makes the most of carefully selected ingredients. The clear soup has a balanced harmony of chicken and seafood umami, creating a light yet deeply complex taste. Their homemade noodles go down smoothly, and the integration with the soup is a delight. Though not flashy, it is an honest bowl that locals praise as "a flavor you'll want to come back for." Recommended for those who want to enjoy ramen in a calm setting in Higashi-Nakano.

Store Information

• Address: 1F Lions Mansion Nakano-Higashi, 4-30-16 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 1-minute walk from Ochiai Station Exit 2b (Tozai Line)
• Hours: Mon/Thu 11:00 - 15:00 / 18:00 - 21:00, Tue/Wed/Fri/Sat/Sun 11:00 - 16:00
• Closed: [Irregular, please check SNS]
• Phone Number: —

 

#9: Men-Sakaba Hikaru (4.0 stars / 194 reviews)

 

Men-Sakaba Hikaru is a unique shop where you can enjoy both ramen and alcohol. It doubles as a ramen specialty shop by day and an izakaya by night, and many regulars order ramen to finish off their night of drinking. The signature ramen is a chicken-bone-based light style, which is easy to enjoy even after a night out. With an extensive menu of appetizers and alcoholic drinks, it's easy to stop by casually. It's a quintessential Higashi-Nakano spot where you can visit with friends to enjoy the "drink, eat, and finish with ramen" style.

Store Information

• Address: B1F Higashi-Nakano Apartments, 4-4-5 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 30-second walk from Higashi-Nakano Station (JR Sobu Line / Oedo Line)
• Hours: Mon/Tue/Wed/Thu/Day before holidays 11:30 - 00:30, Fri/Sat 11:30 - 03:00, Sun/Holidays 11:30 - 23:30
• Closed: End of year holidays, irregular training closures
• Phone Number: 03-3363-2235

 

#10: Kojitsu (4.1 stars / 430 reviews)

 

Kojitsu is a popular shop that provides healthy, additive-free ramen. Their chicken-based soup is beautifully transparent, offering an elegant umami. The "Shio Ramen" (salt ramen) is particularly well-balanced, and has a reputation for being so flavorful you'll want to drink the whole bowl. Ramen that utilizes the sweetness of vegetables and accents of aromatic oil is also recommended for those who prefer lighter options. With a calm interior, it is highly supported by health-conscious individuals and female customers.

Store Information

• Address: 1F MK House, 1-53-7 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 4-minute walk from Higashi-Nakano Station West Exit (JR)
• Hours: Tue/Wed/Thu/Fri/Sat 11:30 - 14:30 / 17:30 - 20:30
• Closed: Mondays and Sundays
• Phone Number: 03-3369-5914

No. 11: Aburasoba Aburayama (4.0 stars / 374 reviews)

 

"Aburayama" has gained popularity in Higashi-Nakano as a restaurant specializing in oil-based noodles (aburasoba) rather than standard ramen. Its simple yet deep flavor, derived from a combination of soy sauce tare and aromatic oil, is complemented by the ability to customize it with vinegar and chili oil from the table. The hearty portion of noodles is very satisfying, earning support mainly from students and young people. As it is soup-less, it is also popular among the health-conscious, making it a distinct Higashi-Nakano spot that offers the perfect bowl when you're craving something substantial.

Store Information

• Address: 1F, 3-8-5 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 2-minute walk from JR Higashi-Nakano Station East Exit
• Hours: 11:30 AM - 12:00 AM
• Closed: Year-end/New Year holidays (12/30–1/4)
• Phone Number: 03-6886-5830

 

No. 12: Ramen Takanoha (3.9 stars / 39 reviews)

 

"Takanoha" is a quiet, hidden-gem ramen shop in Higashi-Nakano. It is characterized by an elegant bowl featuring a clear soup layered with chicken and seafood umami, creating a flavor that never grows old. Although the number of reviews is still low, its meticulous craftsmanship and sincere taste are gradually gaining recognition. The calm atmosphere makes it easy to visit alone, and it is recommended for those looking to enjoy their ramen in peace.

Store Information

• Address: 1F Nichito House, 3-6-18 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 264m from Higashi-Nakano Station
• Hours: 11:00 AM - 3:30 PM / 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
• Closed: —
• Phone Number: —

 

No. 13: Oomen Hanaki (4.0 stars / 275 reviews)

 

"Oomen Hanaki" is a popular Higashi-Nakano establishment drawing attention for its unique name and original style. The soup is a masterful blend of animal and seafood broths, characterized by a deep umami and aroma. They offer a diverse menu including soy sauce and salt-based flavors, all of which are highly praised for their high level of completion. The noodles are supple, medium-thin, and pair perfectly with the soup. Supported by regular customers who claim they can "enjoy a different flavor every time," this talented shop has no shortage of repeaters. It has a relaxed atmosphere, making it easy to enter even for those dining solo.

Store Information

• Address: 1F Inoue Bldg., 1-31-8 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 275m from Higashi-Nakano Station
• Hours: Tue–Sat 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM / 5:00 PM - 7:45 PM; Sun/Hol 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Closed: Monday
• Phone Number: —

 

No. 14: Japanese Ramen Mukan (4.8 stars / 116 reviews)

 

"Japanese Ramen Mukan" is a notable establishment boasting overwhelming high ratings. Committed to additive-free and MSG-free ingredients, their soup is transparently beautiful and highlights the inherent umami of the ingredients, captivating ramen fans. Their signature soy sauce ramen combines deep richness with a sharp finish, standing out as a highly perfected dish. The interior is stylish and clean, making it popular among women and families. While the number of reviews is small, it is gaining attention as one of Higashi-Nakano's new, must-know hidden gems.

Store Information

• Address: 1F Oedo Corpo, 2-2-24 Chuo, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 1-minute walk from Nakano-sakaue Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line / Toei Oedo Line) Exit A2
• Hours: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
• Closed: Wednesday, Sunday
• Phone Number: —

 

No. 15: Chuka-ya Juban (4.0 stars / 511 reviews)

 

"Chuka-ya Juban" is a local town-style Chinese restaurant that has been long-loved near Higashi-Nakano Station. It is a shop where you can enjoy not just ramen, but a wide variety of Chinese dishes, with their old-fashioned soy sauce ramen being particularly popular. The light soup pairs well with medium-thin noodles, offering a nostalgic flavor. They also offer a wide selection of hearty set meals, bustling with office workers and students regardless of the time of day. With a casual atmosphere, it is recommended for those who want to enjoy Chinese food along with their ramen.

Store Information

• Address: 3-7-26 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 2-minute walk from JR Higashi-Nakano Station West Exit
• Hours: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM / 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• Closed: Wednesday, 2nd & 4th Thursday
• Phone Number: 03-3371-0010

 

No. 16: Chuka-soba Konoki (4.2 stars / 653 reviews)

 

"Chuka-soba Konoki" is a highly-rated, talented ramen restaurant in Higashi-Nakano. Their signature "Chuka-soba" features a soup carefully boiled from chicken and seafood, offering a light yet deep flavor. The fragrant soy sauce tare and well-balanced medium-thin noodles harmonize exquisitely in a bowl you'll want to finish to the very last drop. The calm interior makes it easy for women and families to visit, contributing to its status as a popular shop supported by a wide range of people.

Store Information

• Address: 1-5-3 Kami-Ochiai, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 10-minute walk from JR Higashi-Nakano Station West Exit
• Hours: Tue/Wed/Thu/Sat/Sun 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM / 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM
• Closed: Monday, Friday
• Phone Number: 050-5595-7477

 

No. 17: Minzokumura (4.4 stars / 125 reviews)

 

"Minzokumura" is a unique shop where you can enjoy not only ramen but also Korean cuisine. Their signature "Korean Ramen" is popular for its addictive combination of spicy soup and chewy noodles. Beyond ramen, they serve authentic Korean dishes like jjigae and bulgogi, allowing you to enjoy both food and drinks. The ethnic atmosphere of the interior is cozy, making it recommended for groups and friends. If you are looking for something a bit different in Higashi-Nakano, this is a spot you shouldn't miss.

Store Information

• Address: 5-4-8 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 2-minute walk from JR Higashi-Nakano Station West Exit
• Hours: 5:00 PM - 3:00 AM
• Closed: —
• Phone Number: 03-3227-3338

 

No. 18: Menya Tenho Higashi-Nakano Branch (3.3 stars / 164 reviews)

 

"Menya Tenho Higashi-Nakano" is a community-based shop providing affordable and hearty ramen. They have a rich menu including miso and soy sauce, with the miso ramen being particularly popular for its thick, deep richness. It has the atmosphere of an old-school diner, making it approachable for families and students. While the review rating is modest, it is valued as a "neighborhood ramen shop" perfect for daily use. Recommended for those looking for a perfect, reliable bowl of everyday ramen.

Store Information

• Address: 1F GS Bldg., 3-14-21 Higashi-Nakano, Nakano-ku, Tokyo
• Access: 5-minute walk from JR Higashi-Nakano Station East Exit
• Hours: 11:30 AM - 11:30 PM
• Closed: —
• Phone Number: 03-3365-5898

 

Summary of Ramen near Higashi-Nakano Station

Higashi-Nakano is a hidden-gem area where you can enjoy a diverse range of ramen, from town-style Chinese restaurants like Taisanken to highly talented shops like "Kashiwagi" and "Konoki," as well as unique establishments like "Mukan" and "Minzokumura." The lineup includes both long-established shops with many reviews and up-and-coming highly-rated restaurants, making it irresistible for food lovers. There are also shops open late around the station, which is convenient for grabbing a meal after work or a night out. Please use this ranking as a guide to find your favorite bowl of ramen in Higashi-Nakano.