Tsugaru Niboshi Hirakoya

This is the permanent Tokyo branch of "Chukasoba Hirakoya," a renowned shop founded in Aomori City in 2005. After gaining popularity with a limited-time pop-up at Tokyo Ramen Street in 2022, it has made a comeback approximately two and a half years later, establishing its first permanent store outside Aomori Prefecture. The signature dish is "Tsugaru Niboshi Ramen," a local Aomori style, characterized by a rich soup meticulously prepared using a "three-stage brewing" method with over 50kg of four types of dried sardines (niboshi), primarily hirako niboshi. Guests can choose from various richness levels: "Koikuchi Niboshi" (rich), "Assari Niboshi" (light), and "Nihachiboshi" (medium), alongside the Tokyo Station exclusive "Karanippo TYPE-T" (limited to 30 servings daily). Unusually for a niboshi-specialty shop, they pair their ramen with medium-thick wavy noodles, which firmly grasp the rich soup, offering a satisfying mouthfeel. Payment options include cash or transportation IC cards, and its direct connection to the station ensures easy access for tourists.