Machida Shoten

Why this shop

Machida Shoten is an iekei chain with 40+ locations across Japan. Iekei (家系) ramen originated in Yokohama in the 1970s: a rich tonkotsu-soy broth, thick straight noodles, and three toppings — chashu pork, spinach, and nori. The style spread through a network of shops trained under the same lineage, and Machida Shoten is one of the more widely known names in that tradition.

Why this location

Most Machida Shoten branches are cash-only and Japanese-only. This Tokyo Ramen Yokocho outlet, in the basement below Tokyo Station's Yaesu North Exit, is the exception. It's the only branch confirmed to offer multilingual menus (English, Chinese, Korean) and accept credit cards, IC cards (Suica / Pasmo), and QR payment (PayPay) — making it the most accessible entry point to the chain for foreign visitors.

What to order

Order the standard ramen. Chashu pork and nori are included; adding a seasoned egg (ajitsuke tamago) is recommended. A small rice bowl on the side is the standard iekei pairing — most regulars soak the last of the broth into the rice.

At the counter, you'll be asked three customization questions:

• Noodle firmness (麺の硬さ / men no katasa)
• Broth richness (味の濃さ / aji no kosa)
• Oil level (脂 / abura)

Say futsuu (普通) for all three if unsure — it means normal and is always a safe default.

Practical notes

The shop is inside Tokyo Ramen Yokocho, a food hall with several ramen counters sharing the same basement space. Look for the Machida Shoten sign among the stalls. Walk in and queue at the door — no reservation needed.

Payment: Visa, Mastercard, IC cards (Suica / Pasmo), and QR (PayPay). No cash required.

Hours: 11:00–23:00 daily. The location is steps from the Yaesu North Exit ticket gates, making it easy to fit in before or after a shinkansen.