Within Japan’s ramen culture, “Jiro-style ramen” is known for its particularly distinctive character. Thick slices of chashu pork, a bold and robust broth, and mountains of vegetables… its impressive appearance has even caught the attention of ramen fans overseas.
However, it’s also true that many people feel hesitant to try it, thinking “the ordering process seems complicated” or “there are unique rules.” For those with such concerns, we highly recommend “Ramen Buta no Michi” located at Ibaraki PrefectureMito City.
The Background of Jiro-Style Ramen and the Spread of "Inspired" Varieties
Jiro-style ramen is a ramen style that traces its origins to “Ramen Jiro,” founded in Mita, Tokyo, in 1968. Characterized by extra-thick noodles, massive amounts of vegetables (cabbage and bean sprouts), garlic, pork back fat, and large slices of pork chashu, it has spread nationwide as a unique culinary culture.
In addition to branches of the original “Ramen Jiro,” there are also numerous shops known as “inspired-style” that have been influenced by its flavor. Ramen Buta no Michi is one such shop in this lineage, a Mito-based restaurant that has been carefully designed to be accessible even to Jiro-style beginners.
What is the "Call" in Jiro-style ramen?
An essential part of discussing Jiro-style ramen is the unique ordering system known as “calling.”
At many Jiro-style ramen shops, a staff member will call out to you just before your ramen is ready, and you must verbally specify the amount of toppings you want on the spot.
The terms used at this time include “Yasai” (vegetables), “Niniku” (garlic), “Abura” (oil), and “Karame” (dark soy sauce), along with expressions like “Mashi” (extra), “Mashi-mashi” (double), and “Mashi-mashi-mashi” (triple).
For example, responding with “Yasai Mashi, Ninniku Mashi” or “All Mashi Mashi” is the standard style in Jiro-style ramen.
Even Japanese people can find this exchange nerve-wracking if they aren’t used to it, and for international tourists, it can feel like a particularly high hurdle due to issues like missing the timing, not understanding the jargon, or feeling flustered when they have to ask the staff to repeat themselves.
Ramen Buta no Michi: No need to call out your order—perfect for beginners
A key feature of this shop is that you don’t have to verbally place your order.
Orders are placed by writing directly on a form at your table, so you won’t be suddenly asked questions right before your meal is served. There’s no need to memorize specialized terms, so you can choose at your own pace without feeling rushed.
An impressive Jiro-style appearance and a flavor that’s easy to enjoy
The visual spread across the bowl has the impressive presence typical of Jiro-style ramen. The thick slices of chashu and freshly boiled vegetables are tender, thoroughly infused with the rich umami of the broth.
The photogenic presentation is sure to leave a lasting impression as a memory of your trip abroad.
An atmosphere that’s welcoming even for first-timers
The atmosphere makes it easy to walk in even for first-timers, and it’s a comfortable place to dine alone. In addition to counter seats, there are table seats, making it easy for groups to enjoy as well.
The staff is courteous, and the atmosphere makes it easy to ask questions if you’re unsure of anything, showing their consideration for first-time visitors.
The Perfect Bowl for Your Jiro-Style Debut in Mito
Ramen Buta no Michi is a shop that gently dispels the image that "Jiro-style ramen is intimidating." With an easy-to-understand ordering system that requires no special requests and a manageable portion size, even first-timers can comfortably experience Japan’s deep ramen culture.
When visiting Mito City, be sure to stop by “Ramen Buta no Michi” to enjoy a Jiro-style ramen experience without any pressure.
Combining Jiro-style ramen with sightseeing in Mito
The Mito area is home to many historical attractions, such as Kairakuen Garden, Kodokan, and the Tokugawa Museum. Incorporating a local, punch-packed culinary experience like “Jiro-style ramen” after sightseeing makes for a well-rounded day.
Since it’s only about a 15-minute drive from Mito Kairakuen Garden, it’s easy to plan an itinerary where you enjoy the plum blossom festival and stroll through the gardens at Kairakuen Garden in the morning, then savor a hearty bowl of ramen at Ramen Buta no Michi for lunch.