[Clark-ken] is a spot where you can enjoy authentic Hokkaido miso ramen (Hitachinaka City). Hailing from the lineage of a popular ramen shop in Mito, this restaurant opened in 2024 as a specialty miso ramen shop and has been gaining attention among local ramen enthusiasts.
For international tourists, it’s also a unique spot to experience “Hokkaido ramen that has evolved in Japan.”
What Is Hokkaido Miso Ramen?
Hokkaido miso ramen is one of the most popular ramen genres in Japan. By adding stir-fried vegetables and lard (oil) to a rich, full-bodied miso broth, it creates a bowl that warms you up even in cold climates.
At Clark-ken, while staying true to this Hokkaido style, the ramen has been adapted to be more modern and accessible. It’s characterized by a well-balanced flavor that anyone can enjoy.
Deliciousness That Comes from Making Each Bowl to Order
A major feature of Clark-ken is its style of preparing each bowl one at a time after an order is placed. By combining the soup and vegetables right there on the spot, the savory aroma and umami are brought out to the fullest.
In particular, the way sautéed vegetables—such as bean sprouts—blend into the soup, layering with the richness of the miso and its natural sweetness, is a finish that can only be achieved when the dish is made fresh. It is precisely because of this process that the first bite has such a distinctive impact.
The popular “Spicy Scallion Miso Ramen”—with its crisp texture and addictive kick
The perfect pairing of savory-spicy scallions and a rich broth
Our signature miso soup is topped with a mountain of scallions mixed with our special spicy sauce. The real thrill lies in how the sweetness and richness of the miso spread across your palate at first, then gradually give way as the spiciness of the scallions infuses the soup, transforming it into a thrilling flavor experience.The crisp texture of the green onions and the perfectly balanced spiciness stimulate your appetite, making this an addictive bowl that keeps you coming back for more—right down to the very last drop.
Hearty, Homemade Noodles That Hold Their Own Against the Soup
The noodles are medium-thick, homemade strands that hold up well against the rich, savory-spicy broth. They have a chewy, springy texture, and the aroma of wheat fills your nose with every bite.When you slurp the noodles together with the spicy scallions, the sweetness of the wheat and the kick of the scallions create an exquisite contrast, enveloping you in a sense of satisfaction that makes you think, “This is what miso ramen is all about.”
“Spicy Miso Tsukemen”: Experience the Rich Umami Firsthand
Concentrated Miso Richness and a Crisp, Clean Spiciness
The dipping broth takes our signature miso base and makes it even richer, with a punchy flavor enhanced by a clean, sharp spiciness. The moment you dip the noodles in, the umami from pork and chicken bones, combined with the deep richness woven from multiple types of miso, spreads throughout your mouth.Though rich, the lingering spiciness in the aftertaste sharpens the overall flavor, creating an exquisite balance that never feels heavy—even until the very last bite.
The luxury of “Chilled Serving” to fully savor the noodles’ flavor
What truly stands out in tsukemen is the quality of the noodles themselves. The medium-thick noodles, which have been rinsed in cold water to enhance their firmness, glide down the throat surprisingly smoothly, offering a refreshingly crisp texture.Dip the seared chashu into the dipping sauce and take a bite along with the noodles—the sweetness of the juicy fat blends with the richness of the spicy miso, offering a deep, satisfying experience quite different from that of ramen.
No need to worry, even if you’re a first-timer! Our latest ordering system
The interior is bright and clean, and orders are placed via touchscreen. Payment is also self-service, making for a smooth dining experience.
Even international tourists who aren’t confident in their Japanese can order with ease by following the on-screen prompts. Another appealing feature is that it doesn’t feel as “complicated” as some ramen shops can be.
Easy to access and recommended for a stop during your sightseeing trip
The shop is located along a national highway and features a spacious parking lot, making it easily accessible. Although it’s a bit of a distance from Katsuta Station, you can get there easily by car or taxi.
It’s perfect for when you want a hearty meal during your sightseeing or to experience authentic Japanese ramen.
Authentic Hokkaido Miso Ramen in Japan
Clark-ken’s miso ramen is a classic bowl based on the Hokkaido style. The rich depth of the miso blends with the umami of stir-fried vegetables to create a deeply satisfying flavor.
Another highlight is that each bowl is prepared to order, which brings out the toasty aroma and the harmonious balance of the broth, allowing you to enjoy the unique flavor of a freshly made bowl. Rather than offering a bowl with special twists, the restaurant gives the impression of carefully crafting a solid, traditional miso ramen.
If you’re visiting Hitachinaka, be sure to try the piping-hot Hokkaido miso ramen at Clark-ken. This simple yet deeply satisfying bowl is sure to be a memorable dining experience during your trip.