Some places don’t just serve food—they serve memories.
In the quiet streets near Higashi Omiya Station (Saitama Prefecture), there’s one such spot that’s been doing just that for over half a century.
Welcome to Ramen Stall Kitakuni (ラーメン北国)—a humble roadside ramen stand that’s been warming hearts, one steaming bowl at a time, since 1969.
A Taste of Tradition: Ramen, Made the Old Way
Kitakuni isn’t about trends or fancy interiors—it’s about legacy.
With just a few sealed stools, a sizzling pan, and the comforting hum of conversation, it captures the feeling of Showa-era Japan. This was a time when ramen was still a simple street-side pleasure.
Every night, locals, taxi drivers, and curious travelers gather under the glowing stall light. They are drawn by one thing: the aroma of rich miso broth simmering to perfection.
Meet the Master Behind the Counter
At the heart of this small but mighty operation is the owner, who’s been ladling out steaming bowls of ramen for decades. His warm smile and unshakable rhythm behind the counter give the place its soul.
He’s joined by a loyal assistant, and together they move like clockwork—pouring broth, stirring noodles, greeting customers, and keeping the line flowing deep into the night.
Despite the crowd, there’s no rush here. Just a shared understanding between chef and customer: ramen done right is worth the wait.
The Bowl That Time Perfected
🍜 The star, of course, is the ramen itself.
Served in small yet perfectly balanced bowls, Kitakuni’s miso ramen carries a depth of flavor that only decades of practice can create.
The broth—crafted from a blend of dried seafood and animal-based stock—is rich but never heavy. It’s layered with umami, slightly smoky, and endlessly comforting.
The noodles soak up the broth beautifully, while the tender slices of pork and crisp green onions add just the right contrast. Every spoonful is a reminder that simplicity, done with love, is unbeatable.
Fast, Friendly, and Faithful to Its Roots
Even during its busiest hours—when the line snakes out to the street—the service is lightning fast. The owner and his assistant have perfected the art of ramen flow. They ensure each bowl arrives piping hot and precisely timed.
It’s street food efficiency at its finest, powered by decades of dedication.
When to Go (and How to Find It)
📍 Location: 2-minute walk from Higashi Omiya Station, Saitama
🕒 Hours:
- Saturday: 20:00 – 2:00
- Sunday to Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday & Friday: 18:00 – 2:00
💴 Parking: Convenient coin parking next door
Late at night, under the soft glow of the stall light, Ramen Kitakuni feels like a hidden scene from another era. It is a place where flavor, memory, and community come together.
Final Thoughts: A Bowl of History in Every Sip
Ramen Stall Kitakuni isn’t just a meal—it’s a time capsule.
Every visit feels like stepping back into old Japan, where ramen stalls were neighborhood meeting points and each bowl told a story.
So, if you find yourself near Higashi Omiya Station, follow the scent of soy and miso through the night air. Grab a stool, warm your hands on a small bowl of ramen, and taste what half a century of passion truly means.
Because some flavors don’t fade—they deepen with time. 🍜
יפן, 〒337-0051 Saitama, Minuma Ward, Higashiomiya, 5 Chome−３８−3
