Tucked away in the vibrant Kabukicho district of Shinjuku, Tokyo, the Easy Ramen Making Experience offers a delightful one-hour culinary adventure. For just $26.98, guests can dive into the world of ramen, learning its history and handcrafting their own personalized bowl. While some participants crave more hands-on cooking, the experience promises an engaging and informative exploration of this beloved Japanese dish. With all ingredients and drinks included, it’s a convenient way to take in Kabukicho’s thriving ramen culture. But what makes this class truly unique is the chance to uncover the secrets behind…
Key Points
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This 1-hour ramen making experience in Shinjuku offers a hands-on introduction to the history and preparation of traditional Japanese ramen.
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The activity is priced at $26.98 per person and includes all fees, taxes, bottled drinks, and ramen ingredients.
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The meeting point is a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, with the experience ending back at the same location.
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The activity is not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
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Past reviews suggest potential language barriers and high costs, though the hosts are working to improve the experience.
Overview and Experience Details
The "Easy Ramen Making Experience" in Kabukicho, Shinjuku, is a highly-rated activity with 95% of travelers recommending it.
Offering a badge of excellence, this 1-hour session allows a maximum of 6 participants to assemble ramen and learn about its history. Priced at $26.98 per person, the experience includes all fees, taxes, bottled drinks, and ramen ingredients.
However, transportation to the meeting point at Shinjuku Ale and additional meals or drinks are excluded. The activity isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Participants under 20 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kabukicho.
Location and Meeting Point
The meeting point for the "Easy Ramen Making Experience" is Shinjuku Ale, located at 1-14-5 Kabukicho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo.
It’s a short 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line. The experience ends back at the same meeting point.
Participants can expect a convenient location, easily accessible from one of Tokyo’s major transportation hubs.
However, the meeting point may be confusing for some, as indicated by past feedback, so it’s important to follow the directions provided by the organizers closely.
Inclusions and Exclusions
As part of the "Easy Ramen Making Experience", participants can expect certain items to be included and others to be excluded. The package includes all fees and taxes, as well as bottled drinks and ramen ingredients. However, transportation to the meeting place, additional meals and drinks, and underage drinking are not covered. Soft drink options are limited to ¥500 or less.
Inclusions | Exclusions |
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All fees and taxes | Transportation to meeting place |
Bottled drinks | Additional meals and drinks |
Ramen ingredients | Underage drinking |
Soft drink options over ¥500 |
Participant Requirements and Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible, the Easy Ramen Making Experience is also not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Participants under 20 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The experience has the following requirements:
- Participants must be able to stand for the duration of the session, which is approximately 1 hour.
- Participants should be prepared to handle hot ingredients and equipment during the ramen assembly process.
- Visitors with any medical conditions that may be exacerbated by the experience should refrain from participation.
- Underage drinking is prohibited during the session.
Feedback and Reviews
How do the reviews fare for the Easy Ramen Making Experience? The experience garners mixed reviews from travelers.
Positive comments highlight the fun, the informative ramen history lesson, and the engaging guide interactions.
However, some participants found the lack of hands-on cooking involvement disappointing. Language barriers and high costs were also common criticisms. Guests expressed confusion about the meeting point, and many felt the experience lacked value for money.
The hosts acknowledge the feedback and pledge to improve the experience based on the constructive criticism.
Ramen Assembly and History Lesson
The Easy Ramen Making Experience allows participants to assemble their own ramen bowls while also learning about the rich history behind this iconic Japanese dish.
During the 1-hour session, guests will:
- Select their desired ramen toppings and ingredients, including noodles, broth, and vegetables.
- Receive a brief history lesson on the origins and evolution of ramen.
- Carefully construct their personalized ramen bowl under the guidance of the experienced instructors.
- Gain an appreciation for the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into creating a delicious bowl of ramen.
Exploring Kabukicho’s Ramen Culture
Why is Kabukicho, the vibrant entertainment district in Shinjuku, renowned for its thriving ramen culture?
This bustling neighborhood is a mecca for ramen enthusiasts, boasting an impressive array of ramen shops that cater to diverse tastes. From traditional tonkotsu to innovative fusion creations, Kabukicho’s ramen landscape reflects the creativity and passion of its culinary artisans.
Amidst the neon lights and lively atmosphere, visitors can enjoy the art of ramen making, learning the intricate techniques and historical origins that give this iconic Japanese dish its unique character.
Kabukicho’s ramen culture is a testament to the enduring allure of this beloved comfort food.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Experience
To make the most of your easy ramen-making experience in Kabukicho, consider these practical tips:
Arrive early to ensure you find the meeting point with ease. The experience starts promptly, so don’t be late.
Familiarize yourself with the basic ramen-making process beforehand to maximize your hands-on involvement. Plus, come with an open mind and a willingness to learn about the rich history and cultural significance of ramen in Japan.
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early to locate the meeting point
- Be prepared to start the experience on time
- Research ramen basics to enhance your participation
- Engage with the guide to learn about ramen’s cultural heritage
Since You Asked
Can I Bring My Own Ramen Ingredients?
No, participants can’t bring their own ramen ingredients. The experience includes all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Bringing outside food or ingredients is generally not allowed to ensure a consistent and controlled learning environment for all participants.
Is the Ramen Making Portion Hands-On?
The ramen-making portion is not entirely hands-on. Participants assemble their ramen bowls, but the actual cooking is done by the staff. Participants learn about ramen history and have a brief chance to customize their toppings.
What Happens if I Have a Dietary Restriction?
If you have a dietary restriction, you’ll need to inform the hosts in advance. They’ll do their best to accommodate your needs, but options may be limited. It’s important to communicate any special requirements before the session.
Is There a Cancellation or Refund Policy?
The experience has a flexible cancellation policy. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Closer to the event, partial refunds may be available depending on the circumstances. It’s best to check the policy when booking.
Can I Extend the Experience After the Session?
The activity does not offer an option to extend the experience beyond the scheduled 1-hour session. Participants are expected to complete the ramen-making class within the allotted time frame. No additional time or activities can be added after the session.
The Sum Up
The Easy Ramen Making Experience in Kabukicho, Shinjuku offers a unique opportunity to explore the art of ramen-making. While some participants desire more hands-on cooking, the session’s engaging history lesson and convenient location make it a worthwhile culinary adventure. Visitors can expect a fun and informative experience that provides a glimpse into the vibrant ramen culture of the neighborhood.
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