HAKODATE Travel Tips

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Undecided Near the Station? Head to “HAKODATE MENYA ENJIN” for Soothing, Crystal-Clear Shio Ramen

Arriving at Hakodate Station, the first thought is often “Shio Ramen!” But with so many choices, where should you go? While famous shops are great, “HAKODATE MENYA ENJIN” offers a bowl that satisfies both locals and travelers, all within a few minutes’ walk from the station. Here is why we recommend it based on our recent visit.

nighttime photograph of the storefront of Hakodate Menya Enjin, featuring a red sign and white paper lanterns. It is located directly adjacent to a brightly lit yellow Hasegawa Store sign.
ENJIN standing right next to Hasegawa Store near Hakodate Station. Look for the red sign and warm lanterns.

1. Unbeatable Location: Right Next to Hasegawa Store

ENJIN is located right in front of Hakodate Station, immediately adjacent to Hasegawa Store (Ekimae Branch), famous for Hakodate’s specialty “Yakitori Bento.” At night, warm lanterns and a bright sign welcome you. Being so close to the station makes it perfect for a quick meal while waiting for a train or bus, or right after checking into your hotel.

2. A Gentle, Crystal-Clear Soup with No “Salty Edge”

I ordered the classic Shio Ramen. While Hakodate Shio Ramen is known for its clear soup, this one was exceptional.

A close-up photograph of a bowl of Hakodate-style Shio (salt) ramen. It features thin, curly yellow noodles in a crystal-clear broth, topped with chashu pork, bamboo shoots, green onions, nori seaweed, naruto fish cake, and a piece of fu (wheat gluten).
A beautiful bowl of crystal-clear Shio Ramen. Traditional Hakodate toppings like naruto (fish cake) and fu (wheat gluten) complete the dish.
  • Perfect Salt Balance: Unlike some famous shops where the saltiness can feel a bit too sharp, ENJIN’s soup has absolutely no harsh or unpleasant saltiness.
  • Drinkable to the Last Drop: The balance between the savory broth and the salt is excellent, offering a gentle flavor that makes you want to drink it all down to the very last drop.

3. Finished in a Flash! Smooth Thin Noodles

The ramen uses thin noodles that pair perfectly with the soup.

  • Light Texture: They have a smooth texture and go down easily. Even a standard portion feels like it disappears in an instant, leaving you wondering, “Is it gone already?”
  • A Light Bowl: It’s not a heavy meal, making it perfect as a late-night snack after drinking, or for women and lighter eaters to enjoy thoroughly without feeling weighed down.

4. Convenient for Cashless and International Travelers

Ordering is done via a ticket machine at the entrance, which is surprisingly modern.

  • Various QR Code Payments: In addition to cash, it supports QR code payments like Alipay and WeChatPay.
  • Smooth Transactions: There’s no need to fumble with coins, making it easy to guide international friends for a seamless dining experience.

Conclusion

“HAKODATE MENYA ENJIN”‘s greatest appeal lies not just in its convenient location near the station, but in its “gentle flavor with no sharp edges that you could eat every day.”

Whether you have just arrived in Hakodate or are about to depart, please try this soothing, crystal-clear bowl of ramen.

Enjoy every moment of your Hakodate journey, and travel safe!

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