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Tokyo Ramen Street Introduces Hasegawa from Kitakata

Tokyo Ramen Street at Tokyo Station, renowned for its collection of famous ramen shops, is set to launch the third installment of its Regional Ramen Challenge, featuring Hasegawa from Kitakata, Fukushima. Scheduled to open from August 6, 2026, to November 23, 2026, this special event continues the momentum from its previous successful participants, including Kumamoto's Kourai Ramen.

The Regional Ramen Challenge commenced in August 2025, allowing Tokyoites and visitors alike to enjoy top-tier local ramen. Following the grand success of Kourai Ramen, which served over 50,000 bowls in just three months, Hasegawa is poised to take the stage. Known as the “heretic of Kitakata ramen,” Hasegawa prides itself on maintaining traditional flavors while experimenting with unique broth combinations.

A Taste of Innovation

Hasegawa's approach to ramen-making diverges from the norm, as the shop favors chicken and blue-nosed sardines for its rich broth. Their marquee dish, the “Large Chashu Shoyu Ramen,” is a perfect embodiment of their philosophy. This dish highlights the umami of carefully selected domestic chicken and sardines, served with thick, chewy noodles characteristic of Kitakata ramen. With its clear, untainted broth, this ramen attracts crowds, boasting not only local fans but also ramen enthusiasts from across the country.

Alongside the traditional offering, there will also be a special “Spicy Shoyu Ramen” available exclusively at Tokyo Ramen Street. This dish infuses flavors of Aizu’s traditional garlic miso, elevating the spiciness to deliver a unique ramen experience that cannot be found anywhere else.

The Origin of Hasegawa

Established in 1982, Hasegawa is a beloved ramen destination in Kitakata, known for its innovative spirit. The second-generation owner, Daisuke Hasegawa, is keen on not just preserving but surpassing the legacy of his predecessor. Striking a balance between tradition and innovation, he aspires to refine the quintessential Kitakata ramen into a newer, more exciting breed.

The broth is produced using carefully curated domestic poultry and sardines, which creates a transparent and flavorful liquid that stands apart from typical ramen broths. The shop’s custom-made medium-thick wavy noodles are designed to complement both the broth and the chewy texture, ensuring each bowl is both a nod to tradition and a step forward.

As Hasegawa embarks on its first long-term outpost outside Fukushima, it invites ramen lovers to experience its one-of-a-kind offerings at the bustling Tokyo station. The restaurant emphasizes a menu that encourages diners to pair their bowls with rice for a fulfilling meal—a nod to the heart of Japanese dining culture.

The Location and Atmosphere

Tokyo Ramen Street is located on the basement level of Tokyo Station, offering a quaint yet vibrant atmosphere where diners can immerse themselves in the rich flavors of Japan’s ramen culture. Hasegawa will join other prominent ramen restaurants in this unique culinary hub.

Restaurant Details:

• - Menu Item: Large Chashu Shoyu Ramen - ¥1,300 (tax included)
• - Special Menu: Spicy Shoyu Ramen - ¥1,100 (tax included)
• - Seating: 28 seats
• - Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:30 PM (Last Orders at 10:00 PM)
• - Operational Period: August 6, 2026 - November 23, 2026
• - Contact: 03-6257-7770

As expressed by Daisuke Hasegawa himself, “Tokyo Ramen Street has always been a source of inspiration for me, and it’s an honor to showcase our evolving interpretation of Kitakata ramen here. We’ve poured our passion into every bowl, and we look forward to sharing our love for ramen with ramen enthusiasts in Tokyo.”