Top 3 Must-Visit Ramen Shops in Fukagawa, Hokkaido
Fukagawa, nestled in Hokkaido’s fertile Ishikari plain, is a dream destination for food travelers. While renowned for its exceptional local rice, this charming city also boasts a unique and comforting ramen culture. Positioned neatly between Asahikawa and Sapporo along Route 12, Fukagawa offers a fascinating array of ramen styles—ranging from nostalgic, meticulously crafted salt broths to hearty bowls beloved by locals and weary travelers alike. Whether you are taking a road trip through snow-swept northern landscapes or stopping by local roadside stations, exploring Fukagawa’s ramen scene is an essential culinary adventure. Here are the top three must-visit ramen shops in Fukagawa, Hokkaido.
1. Kodawari no Shio Ramen Kazuyoshi (こだわりの塩ラーメン かずよし)
Rating: 3.8
Located right along Route 12 on the way from Asahikawa to Sapporo and just across from the roadside station “Riceland Fukagawa,” this vintage-looking spot is legendary for its hyper-focused dedication to salt-based ramen. First-time visitors should undoubtedly order the signature shio ramen, ideally paired with a small side of fried rice. The bowl offers a fascinating culinary experience: it serves as a masterclass in elevating instant-ramen nostalgia. The chef has taken the universally beloved, comforting flavor profile of Japan’s most famous packaged salt ramen and recreated it using premium, authentic ingredients. The broth leans light and drinkable, subtly encouraging diners to customize flavors with table condiments, while the slightly tender noodles mirror that comforting home-cooked texture. Topped with a robustly seasoned, chewy chashu pork that provides a savory punch against the delicate broth, it is a quirky, addictive bowl that keeps travelers coming back time and again. The cozy, retro interior features friendly veteran staff and an invitingly unpretentious atmosphere.
2. Ramen Ichikura Fukagawa Branch (らーめん 一蔵 深川店)
Rating: 3.7
As a branch of a well-known name originally from Asahikawa, this roadside restaurant is a convenient and popular stop for motorists exploring the region. The menu features a variety of classic northern favorites, such as the salmon-flake shoyu ramen—which incorporates distinct salmon undertones into a clean, light broth—alongside comforting salt-butter variations and surprisingly popular comfort foods like hearty chashu curry. While the standard portions lean a bit modest (making large sizes popular among heartier eaters), the restaurant offers a convenient cash-only setup and ample parking space shared near the neighboring roadside station. The side dishes also shine, including crisp, well-fried gyoza dumplings that are perfect for sharing on a group trip. It makes for an accessible and straightforward pit stop to warm up during a long Hokkaido road journey.
3. Ramen Mura Ichiban (ラーメン 村一番)
Rating: 3.7
Situated near Fukagawa Station’s main avenue, Ramen Mura Ichiban is a lively nighttime staple beloved by locals, night owls, and visitors craving a deeply satisfying meal. Known for staying open late, the kitchen serves up robustly flavored bowls with rich, carefully developed broths across soy sauce, miso, and tantanmen varieties, alongside legendary comfort dishes like thick-cut katsu ramen, katsu curry, and massive portions of crispy-topped sauce katsudon. The house cutlets are exceptionally praised; expertly fried low and slow from low temperatures, they boast tender meat and a magnificent crunch that pairs wonderfully with Fukagawa’s celebrated local rice and savory curry sauces. The seasoning profile generally leans wonderfully bold and robust—making it especially rewarding for those seeking a hearty, deeply satisfying flavor experience. With a welcoming master behind the counter and an incredible menu of fried specialties, it is an unbeatable spot for a filling dinner in town.
Traveler’s Tip
Many of Fukagawa’s top ramen stops are conveniently situated along major driving routes like Route 12 or near the city center, making them exceptionally easy to access by car during a Hokkaido road trip. Be sure to check operating hours in advance, bring some cash for local establishments, and come hungry—especially if you plan to pair your noodles with Fukagawa’s famous local rice dishes or hearty house-made cutlets!
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