A Yufuin trip absolute MUST! Unlock the flavor genius of Ramen Samurai, the coveted tonkosu ramen joint known to draw a crowd.

Located just a 3-minute walk from JR Yufuin Station along Yufumidori Street, Ramen Samurai offers a spacious interior with the option of counter or table seating so you can get in easily, whether flying solo or with larger groups of family or friends.
The signature dish, Samurai Ramen, is the go-to for velvety broth wrought from simmering pork and local Oita Prefecture chicken with Yufuin’s natural spring water for hours, combined with a special sauce to create a perfectly balanced flavor. Paired with homemade thin noodles, the ramen has a light yet flavorful taste, making it approachable even for tonkotsu (pork bone) ramen beginners.

Toppings include two generous slices of char siu made from Oita pork, along with bean sprouts, soft-boiled marinated egg, wood ear mushrooms, naruto, and nori, offering plenty of substance to write home about. Midway through your bowl, stir in a touch of aromatic spicy miso paste to transform it into a deliciously spicy ramen that ignites your appetite. With an array of condiments available on the table, you can also customize the flavor to your personal taste.
Other standout dishes include the visually striking Tsubaki Mori Chashu Ramen, where slices of char siu cover the entire bowl; the fan-favorite Rich Miso Ramen, which offers a different take on flavor; and the refreshing Yufuin Local Chicken Cold Noodles, perfect for warmer seasons. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to see why Ramen Samurai is a hit!

If just ramen isn’t enough to satisfy you, the generously portioned set menus are a must-try. The Samurai Yufu Set includes the signature Samurai Ramen, a char siu rice bowl, and gyoza—an indulgent combo that lets you enjoy the most popular dishes all in one meal. For those who prefer a spicy kick, the Spicy Samurai Yufu Set swaps the ramen for the Spicy Samurai Ramen and is equally beloved.
The char siu rice bowl and gyoza are also available as à la carte options. For a more relaxed dining experience, pair appetizers like local chicken tataki with beer, shochu, or a highball, and finish off your meal with a hearty bowl of ramen. It’s the perfect way to indulge!

Ordering at Ramen Samurai is simple: as you enter, select and purchase your menu items from the ticket machine (cash only) and hand your ticket to the staff. The machine supports English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, and Korean, making it easy for first-timers to navigate. The friendly and cheerful staff, including the approachable manager, are another reason for the shop’s popularity. Their welcoming attitude is especially appreciated by international visitors.
In addition to its convenient location near Yufuin Station, the restaurant offers parking, making it accessible by car—perfect for Yufuin sightseeing or a spontaneous ramen trip from nearby areas.
Lunch peaks between 12:00pm and 1:30pm, so arriving right after the 10:30am opening or after 1:30pm is recommended to avoid long lines. If it’s not crowded, consider yourself lucky!