houraiken
Table of Contents
Restaurant Overview
Features and Specialties
- The Source of Niigata’s “Assari (Light) Shoyu,” Inherited Across Ages : A historic, renowned shop in Chuo Ward, Niigata, operating since the early Showa era. It is synonymous with the “Niigata Light Soy Sauce Ramen” long cherished in the Niigata Island area.
- The Essence of Smooth Finish: “Ultra-fine Curly Noodles” : Essential in any talk of Houraiken is its noodles as thin as somen. These delicate noodles exquisitely carry the translucent amber broth, creating a light, smooth finish.
- “Golden Broth” That Seeps Into the Body : Carefully simmered from pork bones, dried sardines, and vegetables, the soup concentrates umami without any greasiness. It’s gentle enough to eat for breakfast, possessing a somewhat dignified presence.
Basic Information
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Address | 1262 Kamiookawa-maedōri 9-banchō, Chuo Ward, Niigata City, Niigata |
| Access | Approx. 10-minute drive from JR Niigata Station |
| Phone | 025-222-7208 |
| Opening Hours | 11:00–14:00, 17:30–20:00 |
| Closed | Sundays |
| Special Holidays | - |
| Seats/Facilities | Atmospheric counter and table seating |
| Smoking/Non-smoking | Entirely non-smoking |
| Parking | None (use nearby metered lots) |
| Official SNS | - |
| Official Website | http://houraikenniigata.com/ |
| Gourmet Sites | Google Map: https://maps.google.com/?cid=18358002767907230688 |
Main Menu
| Recommended | Category | Item | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| ★ | Ramen | Ramen | 750 yen |
| ★ | Ramen | Chashu-men | 950 yen |
| Side | Gyoza | 450 yen |
Instant Ramen Introduction
As a representative shop of Niigata’s “light shoyu” style, tie-up products with local companies and dry-noodle gift sets are sometimes available.
Google Reviews Analysis
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Overall Rating (★) | 4.0 / 5.0 |
| Review Count | Over 240 reviews |
(As of March 21, 2026)
Positive Review Trends
- This is the taste of Niigata. The ultra-fine noodles tangle with the soup and are easy to finish.
- A simple yet ultimate soy-sauce ramen you never tire of, even if eaten daily.
- The historic atmosphere is wonderful, allowing for a calm meal.
Improvements/Negative Review Trends
- Because the noodles are extremely thin, they go soft quickly if eaten slowly. It’s best to eat fast.
- Since there is no dedicated parking, it might feel a bit inconvenient for those arriving by car.
Summary & Recommendations
Recommended For:
- Anyone wanting to experience the heart of Niigata ramen’s roots, the “Assari Shoyu.”
- Lovers of the harmony between delicate ultra-fine curly noodles and clear broth.
- Diners seeking to savor a bowl quietly within the atmosphere of a historic, renowned shop.
Tips for Your Visit:
- Taste history with the standard “Ramen.” You’ll be surprised by the thinness of the noodles, which creates the best balance with the broth. Since they’re closed on Sundays, Saturday is your best bet for a weekend visit. It’s within walking distance of the Furumachi area, making it a great highlight for Niigata sightseeing.