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A legendary store leading the pork bone ramen scene in Kurume.
This famous pork bone ramen restaurant was established in Kurume in 1953 (Showa 28). For over half a century since its founding, the restaurant takes pride in its "call back soup," constantly replenished and never left empty, thanks to its unique technique called "call back." The mellow soup, with its rich umami and deep richness, is so beloved that it is said among ramen enthusiasts, "Do not talk about pork bone ramen without eating Taiho Ramen."
The classic menu item is "Ramen," where homemade medium-thick noodles exquisitely intertwine with the "call back soup." Also popular is the richly flavored "Old Ramen (Bullet Ramen)" made with handmade "Old Lard." Fried balls of pork fat add a nostalgic flavor. The "Comparison Set," which allows you to enjoy the two signature ramen dishes in mini sizes, is popular among tourists and beginners.
The head store is located in the heart of Kurume, the "sacred place of pork bone ramen." In addition, there are seven other stores in Fukuoka Prefecture and three outside the prefecture.
The exquisite "Ramen" with the "call back soup" that has been added since its founding.
The "Old Ramen" has an addictive rich flavor from the street stall era.
Bite-sized "Chikugo Gyoza" is also popular.
The "Head Store" provides legendary ramen with continuous service.
Equipped with a counter, raised seating, and table seating.
Some reviews are AI-translated.
Taiho Ramen Head Store is one of Kurume’s most iconic tonkotsu ramen shops and the birthplace of the yobimodoshi soup method, so there are often long lines on both weekdays and weekends.
I stopped by on a road trip through Kyushu and finally got to try this classic tonkotsu ramen, perfected over generations. The broth was rich without being overly salty and packed with pork-bone flavor. It paired perfectly with the springy thin noodles.
The biggest surprise was the sencha served in the restaurant. It was light and refreshing with a subtly sweet finish, perfectly balancing the richness of the broth and refreshing my palate. It was definitely worth the wait. If you’re visiting Fukuoka or Kurume, I highly recommend trying it at least once!
During my trip to Fukuoka, I made a special visit to the original Taiho Ramen location in Kurume to try its famous local tonkotsu ramen. The steaming broth had a rich aroma and a deep, smooth flavor without being overly greasy. The thin noodles soaked up plenty of broth, filling every bite with bold pork-bone flavor. The chashu, wood ear mushrooms, and green onions added plenty of texture and depth.
The restaurant retains a strong nostalgic Japanese atmosphere, and the friendly service gave me a real sense of Kurume ramen's history and character. This meal not only satisfied my taste buds but also deepened my appreciation of Japanese ramen culture. If I get another chance to visit Fukuoka, I will definitely return for another unforgettable bowl of Taiho Ramen.
This place is Bib Gourmand recommended by Michelin! It's authentic bubble-style ramen and it's super tasty. Highly recommend!
