Ramen Museum

Ramen was introduced to Japan from China. That we all probably know. What we probably won't know, we can find out at the Ramen Museum. It's in Shin-Yokohama.

There're several versions of ramen - different soups. The familiar ones are Shoyu (soya sauce), Miso (bean paste), Tonkotsu (pig bones) and Shio (Salt). For each there're variations, notably in the different prefectures throughout Japan.

Ever noticed that miso ramen is almost always garnished with corn and bean sprouts, shoyu always with bamboo shoots, and tonkotsu usually with pickled ginger?

If you like trivia, this is it. The museum gives a full history of ramen (including instant noodles), and even has a collection of artefacts (bowls, spoons etc.) from the best ramen shops in Japan.

The museum also features several ramen outlets that are branches of some of these 'top shops'. Sampler sizes are available at all the outlets there, so you can taste all of them at one go if you want.

More info, including instructions on how to get there, over here -
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3202.html