I visited the renowned Iida Shoten in Yugawara.This was a long-awaited visit to a place I had always wanted to try.After successfully navigating the competitive reservation process, I finally made my first visit.Founded in 2010 by chef Shota Iida, this is a well-known ramen shop representing Japan.Currently, it operates on a reservation-only basis, so it’s not a place you can just drop by for a meal.The idea of traveling to Yugawara just to eat ramen already adds a sense of specialness.I ordered the:⚫︎ Soy Sauce Wonton Chashu Ramen - JPY 3,000The moment it arrived, I was captivated by its beautiful presentation.The clear soy sauce broth paired with delicate thin noodles.It was beautifully garnished with multiple slices of chashu, wontons, seaweed, and green onions.The broth is said to be made from a blend of various local chickens and pork, combined with ingredients from the sea like kombu kelp and dried scallops, as well as vegetables and mushrooms.With the first sip, I experienced a refined and clear flavor, yet it had a deep umami that lingered.It’s not the type that overwhelms with flashiness; rather, the more you savor it, the more depth you discover in the broth.The noodles are also crafted with great care, using domestic wheat.In fact, the blend of wheat is decided every morning based on the day’s conditions, and they make their own noodles.These thin noodles were incredibly smooth, creating a wonderful harmony with the broth.Moreover, the Wonton Chashu Ramen allowed me to enjoy various textures and flavors in one bowl, from the different textures and fats of the chashu to the tender wontons.Iida Shoten prides itself on not using any flavor enhancers and emphasizes the importance of visiting producers to engage with the ingredients.The chef’s commitment to creating "even slightly better ramen than yesterday" is evident in the selection of ingredients, the broth, the noodles, and the presentation.Since 2017, it has won the overall first place in the TRY Ramen Awards for four consecutive years and has been inducted into the hall of fame.After tasting it, I realized that it’s not just about being famous; every aspect of the ramen—from the ingredients, noodles, and broth to the temperature and presentation—is meticulously refined.Visiting Iida Shoten begins with making a reservation.It’s a special ramen that makes you want to travel all the way to Yugawara to enjoy it.I’m thrilled that my long-held wish has come true! It was a great meal.