Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum

Must Do Experiences

• Slurp your way through the basement food court to taste mini-portion ramen bowls from top regional shops across Japan.

• Explore the fascinating first-floor exhibits detailing the rich history and evolution of ramen from its origins to modern instant varieties.

• Immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of the recreated 1950s Sunset City, complete with vintage storefronts, old-school cinemas, and retro signage.

• Collect exclusive stamps and limited-edition merchandise from the museum's dedicated gift shops and candy stores.

Hidden Gems

• Seek out the vintage Dagashiya candy shop in the 1950s alleyway to purchase nostalgic Japanese penny candies and retro toys that are rarely found today.

• Look for the hidden shrine and old-fashioned police box tucked away in the corners of the basement street for authentic mid-century photo opportunities.

• Ask the staff at the ramen shops about their daily limited-quantity specialty broths, which often sell out before the evening rush.

What Makes it Special

• It is the world's first food-themed amusement park, offering a brilliant blend of culinary exploration and immersive historical theme-park design.

• The museum brings together highly rated ramen shops from Hokkaido to Kyushu, allowing you to experience the diverse regional flavors of Japan in one single location.

• Your e-ticket grants priority entry to the museum itself, saving you valuable time to focus on exploring the exhibits and securing a seat at your chosen ramen shop.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is on a weekday morning right after opening at 11:00 AM to enjoy the 1950s streetscape with minimal crowds and shorter queues at the ramen counters. Late afternoon around 3:00 PM is also a sweet spot between the lunch and dinner rushes, allowing for a more relaxed dining experience. The indoor setting makes it a perfect year-round attraction, completely unaffected by Japan's rainy season or winter chill.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the moody, cinematic lighting of the 1950s basement alleyways, focusing on the vintage neon signs, old movie posters, and retro storefronts for a nostalgic aesthetic.

• Take close-up shots of your ramen bowls at the counter, but be mindful of the steam and avoid using flash so as not to disturb other diners.

• Head to the first-floor history exhibit to photograph the massive wall of instant ramen packaging, which offers a colorful and visually striking backdrop.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When eating ramen in Japan, it is perfectly acceptable and even encouraged to slurp your noodles loudly, as it shows appreciation for the chef and helps cool the hot broth. Be sure to return your empty bowls and trays to the designated return shelves at each shop, as this is standard etiquette in Japanese food courts. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so simply thank the staff with a polite gochisousama deshita after your meal.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The museum frequently hosts limited-time pop-up ramen shops featuring famous regional chefs or international collaborations, so check the official schedule for exclusive tasting events.

• During the Japanese New Year and Golden Week holidays, the 1950s streetscape often features special decorations, traditional games, and exclusive commemorative merchandise.

• Summer festivals sometimes bring special chilled ramen menus and retro summer carnival games to the basement food court.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Be careful when navigating the dimly lit basement streets and staircases, especially when carrying hot bowls of ramen from the shop to your seating area.

• Watch your step around the vintage alleyways, as the uneven pavement and retro props are designed for authenticity rather than modern accessibility standards.

• Keep an eye on young children in the crowded food court area to prevent accidental bumps with other guests carrying hot food.