Atami Retreat: Best Dipping Ramen in Japan

In the midst of our exploration around Mount Fuji during Japan's Golden Week, my date and I opted for a change of scenery and ventured to Atami. Driven by a desire for a traditional experience, we chose to stay in a ryokan. Initially skeptical about the $700-a-night price tag, the allure of the ryokan's unique charm and, of course, the delightful company, surpassed my expectations. For a detailed account, feel free to peruse my full review in other Trip Moments. 1. Journey to Atami - A Blend of Bus and Train Adventures Our journey commenced with a bus ride to Gotembak, followed by a train excursion to Atami, a renowned hot spring town. The bustling atmosphere greeted us, with locals indulging in foot baths right outside the station. 2. Ishin Ramen - A Culinary Gem in Atami Address: Japan, 〒413-0011 Shizuoka, Atami, Tawarahoncho, 9−1 熱海第1ビル B1 (Located in the basement of a mall opposite Atami train station) Price: 💰💰 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Eager to satisfy our appetites, we chanced upon Ishin, a ramen haven nestled in the basement of a nearby mall. Renowned for their dipping ramen, this culinary gem required orders to be placed via a vending machine. My choice—a spicy chicken dipped ramen for 980 yen—proved to be a revelation. The noodles exhibited a delightful bounce, and the thick, flavorful soup left an indelible impression. Opting for the Tonkotsu Shinra noodle upsized for 930 yen, my date relished his choice. The free-flow water added a refreshing touch to the dining experience. While the basement offered a variety of sushi and seafood options, Ishin's outstanding ramen made it a standout recommendation for anyone exploring Atami. 3. Ryokan Tranquility - Unveiling the Yukata Experience Our culinary adventure culminated in a retreat to our ryokan, where we were provided with Yukata, traditional Japanese garments for both men and women. Liberated from the need to pack extensive clothing, we roamed the hotel's facilities in comfort. The Yukata seamlessly facilitated visits to the onsen and the enjoyment of the buffet dinner and breakfast spread integral to the ryokan experience.