A Hidden Ramen Gem: Kasho in Chitose‑Karasuyama

A crystal‑clear salt & niboshi broth, delicate noodles, and a rustic meat rice bowl—everything you’d expect from Tokyo’s ramen scene, all for just ¥1,200.

Kasho's Salt & Niboshi Ramen in an earthenware bowl — Kasho’s signature Salt & Niboshi Soba (regular size).

First Impressions

I slipped in around 9 PM to find the place completely empty. The ticket machine’s upper‑left button—usually the chef’s pick—caught my eye, so I went with it. Preparation took a little longer than a standard ramen joint, and soon I knew why: the bowl that arrived was pristine, its transparent broth gently steaming a fragrant welcome.

Tasting Notes

One generous sip revealed a broth that balances light, saline clarity with a gentle, lingering seafood umami. The thin noodles soak up that nuance, releasing a subtle natural sweetness as you chew. A tuft of green onion and daikon sprouts adds a pleasant sting that resets both palate and nose after each slurp.

Night view of Ramen Kasho storefront with its white noren curtain — You’ll find Kasho（華塩） tucked under the tracks, a short walk from Chitose‑Karasuyama Station.

The Meat Rice Bowl That Stole the Show

Mid‑meal, a tiny iron pot landed before me—inside, rice topped with tender pork, crispy fried onions, and soy‑sweet drippings. The first bite confirmed my suspicion: at ¥1,200 (about ¥10 USD), this set is almost underpriced. Those charred grains at the bottom? A nostalgic touch Japanese diners treasure.

Close‑up of Kasho's pork rice bowl served in a small iron pot — The pork rice bowl arrives sizzling, its soy‑fragrant steam mingling with fried onion aroma.

Why It’s Worth the Detour

Even locals would gladly pay 1.5× the price; travelers from high‑cost countries will find this an unbeatable bargain. There’s no other place in Tokyo where you can alternate bites of iron‑pot rice and elegant shio‑ramen like this.

Need‑to‑Know Details

📍 Kasho on Google Maps
💴 Price: ¥1,200 (Salt & Niboshi Soba ‑ Regular + Pork Rice Bowl Set)
🚉 Direct ride from Shinjuku on the Keio Line to Chitose‑Karasuyama Station
🕘 Best enjoyed after the dinner rush; I walked straight in at 21:00

Final Thoughts

If Tokyo’s endless ramen options feel overwhelming, put Kasho on your list. Even if you have no other reason to be in Chitose‑Karasuyama, this meal alone justifies the trip.