Easy Ramen Making Experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku

Nestled in the vibrant Kabukicho district of Shinjuku, the Easy Ramen Making Experience offers a delectable culinary adventure. For just over $27 per person, participants can enjoy the art of ramen-making within an intimate group setting. Led by knowledgeable hosts, the hands-on session explores the rich history and traditions behind this beloved Japanese dish. Whether you’re a ramen aficionado or simply curious to learn, this experience promises an engaging and flavorful exploration of one of Japan’s most iconic culinary staples.

Key Points

• Located in Kabukicho, Shinjuku, this ramen-making experience has a 95% recommendation rate and a price of $27.01 per person.
• The 1-hour experience allows a maximum group size of 6 travelers and includes all fees and taxes, with transportation expenses not included.
• The meeting point is a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, providing convenient access for travelers.
• Participants under 20 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and underage drinking is prohibited.
• While the experience has received mixed feedback, it offers a fun atmosphere and an opportunity to learn about ramen history, though language barriers and limited cooking participation have been noted.

Overview and Experience Details

The easy ramen making experience takes place in Kabukicho, Shinjuku, and has received 235 reviews with a 95% recommendation rate from travelers.

It’s a Badge of Excellence experience, priced at $27.01 per person and lasting around 1 hour. Groups are limited to a maximum of 6 travelers.

Booking confirmation is provided upon purchase. The experience starts and ends at the meeting point, a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line.

Bottled drinks are included, but additional meals and transportation costs are not.

Location and Meeting Point

The meeting point for the easy ramen making experience is Shinjuku Ale, located at 1-14-5 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo. It’s a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line. The experience ends back at the meeting point.

Location	Meeting Point	Transportation
Shinjuku Ale	1-14-5 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo	5 minutes walk from Shinjuku Station
Kabukicho, Shinjuku	Shinjuku Ale	JR Yamanote Line

The meeting location is conveniently situated, making it easy for travelers to find and access the ramen making experience.

Inclusions and Restrictions

The experience includes all fees and taxes, with bottled drinks provided for participants. However, additional meals and drinks come at an extra cost.

Transportation expenses to the meeting place aren’t included. The experience isn’t recommended for travelers with back or heart problems, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Participants under 20 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and underage drinking is prohibited.

While the inclusions are clear, some restrictions may limit certain travelers from fully enjoying the experience.

Participant Feedback and Reviews

According to the reviews, the Easy Ramen Making Experience has received mixed feedback from participants.

Positive reviews praise the fun atmosphere, knowledgeable guides, and opportunity to learn about ramen history.

However, some participants felt the experience was misleading, with minimal actual cooking involved and language barriers with the staff.

Common complaints include:

• Lack of English proficiency from staff
• Minimal hands-on cooking participation
• High costs compared to the experience provided

Multiple reviewers suggested improvements to enhance the overall experience and address these concerns.

Cancellations and Additional Information

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This provides flexibility for participants. Plus, a reserve now and pay later option is offered, allowing customers to secure their spot without immediate payment.

Some staff may use translation machines to assist with language barriers, as English proficiency can be limited. The ramen soup contains pork, chicken, and beef, though the secret recipe is not disclosed.

Cancellation Policy	Reserve Now, Pay Later
Free up to 24 hours	Option available
Flexibility for participants	Secure spot without payment

Exploring the History and Tradition of Ramen

Although ramen has become a global culinary sensation, its origins can be traced back to ancient Chinese noodle dishes. Ramen’s history is deeply intertwined with the cultural exchanges between China and Japan, evolving over centuries to become a distinct Japanese cuisine.

Some key aspects of ramen’s tradition include:

• The intricate process of broth-making, with each regional style having its own unique blend of ingredients and simmering techniques.
• The artistry of hand-pulling noodles, which can vary in thickness, texture, and shape.
• The importance of toppings, which can range from chashu pork to seasoned bamboo shoots, each adding layers of flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Ramen Making Process

The ramen making process typically begins with preparing the broth, which is the foundation of any great ramen dish. Participants learn to simmer the broth for hours, extracting the rich, umami flavors from pork, chicken, and beef bones.

Next, they prepare the noodles, carefully kneading the dough and cutting it into long, thin strands.

The final step involves assembling the dish, layering the noodles, broth, and various toppings like sliced pork, soft-boiled eggs, and green onions.

Rounding out the experience, participants learn about the history and regional variations of ramen.

Enhancing the Ramen Experience: Tips and Suggestions

While the ramen making process provides an educational and engaging experience, there are several ways participants can further enhance their enjoyment.

First, arriving with an open mind and willingness to learn will create a more positive atmosphere.

Plus, asking questions about the history and cultural significance of ramen can deepen one’s understanding.

Finally, embracing the hands-on nature of the class, even if the end result isn’t perfect, will allow for a more authentic and memorable ramen-making experience.

• Arrive with an open mind and willingness to learn
• Ask questions about ramen history and culture
• Embrace the hands-on nature of the class

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Toppings or Broth for My Ramen?

While the experience doesn’t allow you to fully customize the ramen, you can inform the staff of any dietary restrictions or preferences. They’ll do their best to accommodate your needs within the existing menu options.

Do I Get to Take the Ramen I Make Home With Me?

Unfortunately, you don’t get to take the ramen you make home. The experience is focused on the ramen-making process, and you’ll enjoy the ramen you prepare during the session. Any leftovers stay with the provider.

Is the Ramen Making Demonstration Conducted in English?

The ramen making demonstration is not fully conducted in English. While some staff may use translation machines, language barriers are a common complaint among reviewers, suggesting limited English proficiency from the guides.

Can I Book a Private or Group Session for My Event?

Yes, you can book a private or group session for your event. The experience accommodates up to 6 travelers per session, so you can reserve a private class for your group. Contact the provider to inquire about availability and any special booking options.

Is Vegetarian or Halal Ramen Available Upon Request?

The experience doesn’t seem to offer vegetarian or halal ramen options. However, you can inquire about any dietary restrictions when booking, as the staff may be able to accommodate special requests if notified in advance.

The Sum Up

The Easy Ramen Making Experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku offers a unique opportunity to dive into the art of ramen-making. Despite some mixed reviews, the overall experience has a high recommendation rate, making it a great way to explore the history and tradition of this beloved Japanese dish. With a step-by-step guide and knowledgeable hosts, participants can enhance their ramen-making skills in a fun and engaging atmosphere.