This time, let me introduce my favorite ramen shop in Fukuoka’s bustling Tenjin district: Shin Shin.
Ramen is one of those foods where personal preferences vary greatly, and even in Fukuoka, the mecca of ramen, finding “the one” can be surprisingly difficult.
However, I highly recommend Shin Shin. Back in 2012, it was already impressive, and now, as of 2024, it has grown into an immensely popular restaurant.
Conveniently located in Fukuoka city, it’s an easy stop after drinks in Tenjin or Nakasu, or even during a business trip.
Photos and Price are from June 2012.
Visiting the Flagship Shin Shin in Tenjin, Now a Fukuoka Hotspot
One day, I had a sudden craving for ramen at lunch and decided to visit. Shin Shin is located just off “Oyafuko-dori,” a lively street in Tenjin known for its nightlife.
Back in 2012, it was “moderately popular” and often had little to no wait. Fast forward to 2024, and thanks to numerous celebrity endorsements, Shin Shin is now a Fukuoka icon.
During peak times, especially long weekends, the queue can be so long it wraps around the nearby temple.
Yesterday, Shin Shin had a line so long it surrounded the temple across the street. That’s holiday season for you. pic.twitter.com/9RLZFrZp3e
— ushigyu (@ushigyu) January 8, 2024
Since it’s open throughout the day, visiting outside peak hours is the smart choice.
Lunch specials make ramen and set menus slightly more affordable.
I opted for a ramen set with gyoza and rice this time.
The walls inside are lined with autographs of celebrities who’ve visited.
Even the counter showcases them!
Delicious Tonkotsu Ramen with Thin Noodles and Flavorful Broth
Soon, my ramen set arrived. It looked fantastic!
The star of the show: thin noodles swimming in a rich tonkotsu broth. Doesn’t it look incredible?
And here’s the bite-sized Hakata gyoza!
The noodles are among the thinnest you’ll find in Fukuoka, and the broth combines pork bones, chicken stock, and vegetables for a perfectly balanced flavor.
Unlike the thinly sliced pork often seen in Hakata ramen, Shin Shin’s chashu is satisfyingly thick and hearty.
Personally, I find that ramen broth often peaks with the first sip and loses its appeal as I eat. However, Shin Shin’s broth maintains its deliciousness from start to finish.
The noodles, chashu, and green onions complement the broth perfectly. It’s simply delightful.
I recently brought a guest from Yokohama here, and they loved it too!
Don’t Miss the Champon and Izakaya Menu at Shin Shin
Shin Shin also serves an excellent champon, a noodle dish that I highly recommend. My personal favorite is the miso champon.
The izakaya menu is well-rounded too, making it a great spot for small groups of up to four.
While it can get crowded during the post-drink rush from 9 PM to closing, Shin Shin is a must-visit for anyone coming to Fukuoka. Be sure to check it out!
