From Jabon Ramen to Kurobuta Tonkatsu – A Kagoshima Food Tour
During my recent trip to Kagoshima, I visited three places I absolutely had to try: the ramen restaurant Jabon Ramen, Tenmonkan Wakana Main Branch, and the tonkatsu specialty restaurant Katsuju Amu Plaza Kagoshima Branch.
I'll leave honest reviews of each.
⸻
🍜 Jabon Ramen – Char Siu Ramen
As befitting Kagoshima's iconic ramen restaurant, it was bustling with locals and tourists alike.
I ordered the Char Siu Ramen. The broth, a signature Kagoshima ramen dish, was rich yet not greasy, and smooth.
The chashu was generously placed on top, but it wasn't overly fatty, and it was savory yet tender, complementing the broth perfectly.
The noodles were just the right thickness and chewy, complementing the broth perfectly. After finishing the bowl, I thought, "Ah, so that's why the locals come here too."
⸻
🍲 Tenmonkan Wakana Main Branch – Black Pork Shabu Shabu & Snacks
I'd heard Wakana was a must-visit in Kagoshima, so I had high expectations, and I was very satisfied.
Even though I was alone, I was able to enjoy a single serving of black pork shabu shabu. The thinly sliced black pork was lightly dipped in the broth, and the rich yet light flavor filled my mouth.
The accompanying chicken sashimi was fresh and had a unique, savory flavor that was impressive. It was a perfect accompaniment to drinks.
Naturally, I ordered Kagoshima sweet potato shochu, and its savory yet clean aftertaste paired perfectly with the shabu shabu.
The miso oden I ordered was warm and rich, perfect as a snack to end my evening.
Even though I was alone, I felt comfortable and truly immersed in the local atmosphere.
⸻
🥢 Katsuju Amu Plaza Kagoshima Branch – Black Pork Tonkatsu
When you think of Kagoshima, you can't miss black pork tonkatsu.
I tried black pork tonkatsu at Katsuju in Amu Plaza.
The batter was crispy, not too thick, and not at all greasy.
The black pork inside was juicy, savory, and tender, making it a truly delightful bite.
Served with rice, miso soup, and cabbage salad, it was a perfect meal.
The meat's natural flavor was noticeably different from regular tonkatsu, making me think, "This is Kagoshima black pork!"
This trip allowed me to experience two unique Kagoshima flavors: black pork and ramen.
👉 Personally, if I go back, I'd definitely try the chashu ramen at Jabon Ramen, along with the fried rice the elderly people sitting next to me were enjoying!
#JapanTravel #KagoshimaTravel #KagoshimaRestaurants #BlackPork #SweetPotatoShochu