A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Visitors
1. Spot the Machine Near the Entrance
Most ramen shops have a brightly lit ticket machine just inside the doorway. Look for a column of colorful buttons with dish photos and prices.
2. Study the Menu Buttons
Pictures help, but English names are becoming more common. Typical categories:
- Shio (salt)
- Shōyu (soy)
- Miso (fermented soy)
- Tonkotsu (pork bone)
Hover a moment—no one minds if you take a quick photo to translate later.
3. Insert Cash First
Cash is king. Machines rarely take credit cards; some accept IC cards like Suica/Pasmo. Insert bills or coins until the display shows your balance.
4. Press Your Ramen (and Extras)
Each push lights up the button and prints a small ticket.
Common add-ons:
- Ajitama (marinated egg)
- Chāshū (roast pork)
- kaedama (Extra noodles)
5. Collect Ticket & Change
Tickets pop out together; change drops below. Keep both hands free—tickets are tiny!
6. Hand Tickets to the Staff
Find an open seat or wait to be seated; then pass the tickets to the chef or server.
They’ll confirm your order and start cooking.
7. Slurp & Enjoy
When your bowl arrives, dig in! Loud slurping is perfectly polite; it cools the noodles and shows appreciation.
Quick Etiquette & Pro-Tips
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Have cash ready before lining up. | Hold the queue while deciding. |
| Stack tickets neatly before handing over. | Crumple or tear the tickets. |
| Say “Sumimasen!” (Excuse me) if you need help. | Ask to customize beyond what’s on the machine (most shops can’t). |
Handy Phrases
| English | Japanese (Romaji) | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| “One ticket machine, please?” | “Kippu-ki wa doko desu ka?” | If you can’t spot it |
| “Can I get an English menu?” | “Eigo no menyū arimasu ka?” | In rare menu confusion |
| “Thank you, it looks delicious!” | “Arigatō, oishisō desu!” | When the bowl arrives |
FAQ
Q: What if I don’t have enough cash?
A: Look for a change machine nearby or politely ask the staff; many keep small change behind the counter.
Q: Can I add toppings after I sit down?
A: Some shops sell extra-topping tickets at the machine, but once seated, modifications are limited.
Q: Is tipping expected?
A: No. Returning your bowl to the counter and saying “Gochisō-sama deshita!” (“That was a feast!”) is the perfect thanks.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the ticket machine turns a potentially confusing moment into part of the fun.
With these steps, you’ll breeze through your ramen run like a local. Happy slurping and safe travels!