ラーメン 支那そば北熊 総本店
Authentic creamy chicken-based shinasoba, a long-beloved local favorite in Kumamoto.
Table of Contents
- Restaurant Overview
- Basic Information
- Instant Ramen / Souvenirs
- Google Reviews Analysis
- Summary & Recommendations
Restaurant Overview
Features and Specialities
- Creamy Golden Chicken Broth : For over 30 years, “Shinasoba Hokuma” has been a beloved staple in Kumamoto. Their signature broth is meticulously simmered from chicken bones until it turns a creamy white, then enhanced with the sweetness of vegetables for a potage-like, comforting flavor.
- Signature Egg Crinkle Noodles : Their specialty crinkled noodles are designed to perfectly latch onto the rich broth, providing a satisfyingly chewy floral texture.
- Famous All-You-Can-Eat Kimchi : Every table is equipped with a vessel of house-made kimchi, provided for free and unlimited. The balance of acidity, spice, and umami is so perfect that many fans consider it an essential part of the Hokuma experience, whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a mix-in for the noodles.
Basic Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1-12-48 Kusunoki, Kita-ku, Kumamoto-shi, Kumamoto |
| Access | About a 5-minute drive from JR Houhi Line “Musashizuka” Station. Located along Kusunoki-dori street. |
| Phone | 096-338-7562 |
| Business Hours | 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM (L.O. 2:45 PM), 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM (L.O. 9:00 PM) |
| Closed | Wednesdays |
| Special Holidays | - |
| Seating/Facilities | Counter and table seating available |
| Smoking | Non-smoking |
| Parking | Available |
| Official SNS | - |
| Official Website | http://hokuyu-shinasoba.com/ |
| Other Sites | Google Maps: https://maps.google.com/?cid=3864044474924599866 |
Main Menu
| Recommendation | Category | Menu Item | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| ★ | Ramen | Hokuma Shinasoba | 880 JPY |
| ★ | Ramen | Hokutomen (Fusion with Tokyo Soy Sauce style) | 930 JPY |
| Ramen | Tokyo-style Shinasoba | 830 JPY | |
| ★ | Side | Set Fried Rice | - |
| ★ | Others | House-made Kimchi (FREE) | 0 JPY |
Prices are as of the time of research and are subject to change. “Hokuma Appreciation Day” is often held on the 15th of every month.
Instant Ramen / Souvenirs
Information regarding official online sales or instant versions was not confirmed at this time (take-out sets may be available in-store).
Google Reviews Analysis
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 4.3 / 5.0 |
| Total Reviews | 1,108 |
(As of March 15, 2026)
Positive Review Trends
- Reviewers rave about the soup—though it looks like a white tonkotsu at first glance, the pure chicken umami makes it incredibly smooth and easy to drink.
- The free kimchi is a major highlight; many customers admit to visiting specifically for the delicious, spicy kick it adds to the meal.
- The combination of chewy egg noodles and the creamy broth is highly addictive and keeps local fans coming back for generations.
Areas for Improvement / Negative Trends
- As a highly popular local institution, lines are common, especially during lunch hours and on weekends. Expect a potential wait.
- The kimchi is so delicious that some diners humorously complain about accidentally eating too much of it!
Summary & Recommendations
Recommended for…
- Travelers who want to try a legendary local flavor in Kumamoto that isn’t the standard garlic-tonkotsu style.
- Anyone seeking a creamy, comforting, yet deeply flavorful chicken-based broth.
- Foodies who enjoy interactive dining experiences—like snacking on fantastic house-made kimchi while waiting for a masterful bowl of noodles.
Tips for Your Visit
- Expect heavy crowds on the 15th of each month (Appreciation Day), as prices are often discounted.
- While there are multiple branches across Kumamoto, visiting the “Sohonten” (Main Store) provides the most authentic and historical atmosphere.