Award-Winning UAE Brand IchiRyu Ramen House Opens First International Branch in Chichibu, Saitama, Japan

CHICHIBU, SAITAMA, JAPAN — IchiRyu Ramen House, the award-winning homegrown ramen brand from the United Arab Emirates, proudly marks a historic milestone with the opening of its first international branch in Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.

Founded in the UAE with a mission to share authentic Japanese ramen culture, IchiRyu has become one of the country’s most celebrated ramen destinations, earning multiple industry recognitions while building a loyal following for its rich, handcrafted broths, premium ingredients, and unwavering commitment to Japanese craftsmanship.

The opening of the Chichibu branch represents a full-circle moment for the brand—bringing a UAE-born success story back to the birthplace of ramen culture.

Rather than replicating its entire UAE menu, IchiRyu has introduced an exclusive concept for Japan centered around one of its signature specialties: Paitan ramen. Guests can enjoy a carefully curated selection featuring Paitan Ramen, Paitan Chashumen, the Paitan IchiRyu Special, Paitan Ebi Ramen, Wing Gyoza, and Ebi Rice. Every dish is prepared using authentic Japanese techniques while reflecting the culinary identity that made IchiRyu a standout brand in the UAE.

For Executive Chef Touru De Guzman, opening a restaurant in Japan is both a professional achievement and a deeply personal milestone.

“Japan is where my culinary journey began and where my passion for ramen was shaped. To return and open an IchiRyu branch here is incredibly meaningful. It’s both an honor and a responsibility because we’re serving guests in a country that has perfected ramen for generations. Every bowl we serve must reflect our respect for that tradition.”

Chef Touru explained that the decision to focus exclusively on Paitan ramen was intentional.

“We didn’t want to bring a large menu. We wanted to perfect one style. By specializing in Paitan ramen, our team can dedicate complete attention to every bowl—from the broth and noodles to the finishing touches. It allows us to deliver consistency, depth of flavor, and the level of craftsmanship our guests deserve.”

The Chichibu branch also embraces the spirit of omotenashi, Japan’s philosophy of wholehearted hospitality, which has long been a cornerstone of IchiRyu’s service culture in the UAE.

Although born abroad, Chef Touru believes the brand has always remained deeply rooted in Japanese values.

“Everything we’ve built at IchiRyu has been guided by Japanese craftsmanship, discipline, and hospitality. Opening in Japan isn’t about proving ourselves—it’s about paying respect to the culture that inspired us from the very beginning. We hope every guest experiences that sincerity the moment they walk through our doors.”

Located in the historic city of Chichibu, the restaurant welcomes both local residents and visitors seeking an authentic yet distinctive ramen experience rooted in Japanese tradition and refined through years of excellence in the UAE.

As IchiRyu begins its next chapter, the Chichibu opening stands as a proud example of how a homegrown UAE brand can successfully cross borders while remaining true to its roots, its craftsmanship, and its unwavering passion for authentic Japanese ramen.

About IchiRyu Ramen House

IchiRyu Ramen House is an award-winning, homegrown Japanese ramen brand founded in the United Arab Emirates. Known for its authentic ramen, handcrafted broths, premium ingredients, and exceptional hospitality, the brand continues to expand while staying true to the traditions of Japanese cuisine. The Chichibu, Saitama location marks IchiRyu’s first international branch and the beginning of its global expansion.