It has grown on me!

Thursday, November 27, 2025

Savoring Taiho Ramen: Authentic Kurume Tonkotsu in Fukuoka, Japan

Taiho Ramen (大砲ラーメン)

As I mentioned in earlier entries, my husband and I spent part of this summer in Fukuoka, Japan.

One of the foods we were most excited to try was tonkotsu ramen, the dish Fukuoka is famous for. In particular, we wanted to taste Kurume-style tonkotsu ramen. Kurume (久留米市), a city in Fukuoka prefecture (福岡県), is recognized as the birthplace of tonkotsu ramen. Since our hometown is quite close to Kurume, we grew up visiting ramen shops there countless times.

Walking near a Kurume ramen restaurant, you can’t miss the unmistakable aroma of simmering pork-bone broth drifting through the streets. The flavor matches the fragrance—Kurume’s tonkotsu ramen is richer and deeper than other regional variations, with a taste that feels both nostalgic and bold.

Taiho Ramen (大砲ラーメン)

Taiho Ramen (大砲ラーメン)

We decided to visit Taiho Ramen (大砲ラーメン), one of the most famous tonkotsu ramen restaurants in Kurume. Established in 1953, it has become a local institution and was even featured in the Michelin Guide Fukuoka & Saga (2014). Because it’s so beloved by the community, the shop is almost always bustling with customers. Taiho is especially known for its signature feature: the unique yobimodoshi soup method, where new broth is continuously added to the old for a deep, layered flavor that has been cultivated for decades.

Taiho Ramen (大砲ラーメン)

Taiho Ramen (大砲ラーメン) Menu

Taiho Ramen (大砲ラーメン)

One fun aspect of ordering tonkotsu ramen in Fukuoka is that you can choose the firmness of your noodles. This customization lets you match the texture to your personal taste.

Firmness of Noodles

Nama (ナマ): Raw-style noodles, extremely firm, almost uncooked in texture
Barikata (バリカタ): Very hard, with a sharp, al dente bite
Kata (カタ): Firm, slightly springy and resilient
Futsuu (ふつう): Regular, the standard balance of softness and chew
Yawa (やわ): Soft, tender noodles that soak up the broth

Regular Ramen (ラーメン並) with Barikata Noodles (バリカタ) for 830 yen

I ordered the regular ramen (ラーメン並) with barikata noodles (バリカタ) for 830 yen. The Kurume-style tonkotsu soup was incredibly rich, its depth of flavor immediately noticeable from the first sip. It tasted so good that I had to resist the urge to finish every drop of the broth. Of course, I reminded myself that drinking the entire bowl of rich, oily, and salty soup isn’t the healthiest choice—though it was very tempting!

Regular Chashu Ramen (チャーシューラーメン並) with Kata Noodles (カタ) for 980 yen

　　 My husband ordered the regular Chashu Ramen (チャーシューラーメン並) with kata noodles (カタ) for 980 yen. The chashu—braised pork slices—were incredibly tender, so soft they seemed to melt in the mouth, adding a luxurious richness to the bowl.

Set of Stir-Fried Rice and Gyoza (五目チャーハンぎょうざセット) for 560 yen

We also ordered a set of stir-fried rice and gyoza (五目チャーハンぎょうざセット) for 560 yen.

The gyoza were perfectly crisp on the outside and juicy inside, making them a satisfying side dish.

The stir-fried rice was exactly what I expected—simple, comforting, and a nice balance to the rich tonkotsu ramen.

Our authentic ramen lunch cost only 2,370 yen ($16.34) for the two of us. The price already included tax, and since tipping isn’t customary in Japan, there were no extra charges. For this quality, a similar ramen lunch in the U.S. would easily cost around $60 for two people. That’s why I usually avoid ramen restaurants in the U.S. and instead savor the experience when I’m in Japan.

These are my entries related to Fukuoka.

Top 3 Seafood Restaurants to Visit Around Hakata

Hakata’s Udon Gems: Two Must-Try Udon Restaurants in Hakata, Fukuoka

A Tempura Lover’s Guide to Hakata: Two Must-Try Restaurants in Fukuoka, Japan

Best Breakfasts in Hakata: 3 Must-Try Restaurants

5 Best Delicious Souvenirs from Fukuoka

These are my entries related to Ramen.

All About Marutai Kyushu Local Ramen! Must-Try Japanese Instant Ramen

Hakata Ippudo Ramen: A Culinary Stop on Our Fukuoka Journey

Exploring Hakata Noodle Street: Hakata Ramen Shin-Shin and Beyond

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Thursday, November 20, 2025

What I Bought at Costco Japan: 16 Favorites

As I mentioned in my previous entry, my husband and I visited Japan this summer—and as always, we made a stop at Costco. It’s become a tradition for us. Costco Japan offers a treasure trove of Japanese products you’d never find at U.S. branches. If you're curious, feel free to check out my earlier posts about our Costco Japan adventures.

💳 A Quick Tip for International Shoppers

If you're a Costco member, you can visit any Costco location worldwide. Just keep in mind:

Costco Japan only accepts MasterCard credit cards and cash
Costco U.S. accepts Visa credit cards and cash

This time, I used my Capital One Quicksilver (MasterCard), which has 0% foreign transaction fees and earns 1.5% cashback on all purchases. For more travel tips like this, check out my post What You Should Take to Japan – Japan Travel Tips.

Costco Japan Haul

We actually visited Costco Japan twice this summer. On one of those trips, I mentioned to my sister that I’ve been taking supplements from Costco. As a healthcare professional, I gave her a few recommendations—she hadn’t taken any before. Her husband chimed in and suggested we all go together. Since her membership had expired, I brought her family along using mine.

It was a fun outing—part shopping spree, part mini family reunion. And today, I’m excited to share the 16 products I picked up during our Costco Japan visits!

1. Sushi, 48 Pieces (寿司ファミリー盛４８貫)

48 Pieces for 3,880 yen

(Tuna, Squid, Yellowtail, Shrimp, Salmon, Octopus, Seared Bonito, Negitoromaki, Tamago)

Sushi, 48 Pieces (寿司ファミリー盛４８貫)

One of the main reasons I love visiting Costco in Japan is their incredibly fresh, high-quality sushi—at prices that feel almost too good to be true. This summer, we picked up a 48-piece sushi set for just 3,880 yen, which breaks down to about 54 cents per piece! We shared it with my family, and everyone was impressed by how plump, flavorful, and generously sized each piece was. From silky salmon to smoky seared bonito, every bite tasted like it came straight from a sushi counter. I’ll absolutely be buying this set again next time—it’s a staple in our Japan Costco tradition.

2. Custard Cream Croissant (カスタードクリームクロワッサン６個入り)

Croissants filled with custard cream

3 Pieces for 1,298 yen

Custard Cream Croissant (カスタードクリームクロワッサン６個入り)

While browsing the bakery section, we noticed a crowd gathering around these custard cream croissants—so naturally, we had to try them. Each croissant was enormous, yet surprisingly soft and airy, with a texture that reminded me of fluffy cake. The custard filling was light, creamy, and just sweet enough to feel indulgent without being overpowering.

My husband and I could only manage a few pieces before sharing the rest with my sister’s family. They loved them so much, my sister ended up buying a pack for herself! If you spot these at Costco Japan, I highly recommend giving them a try—they’re a delightful treat and perfect for sharing.

3. Yamaya Mentai Mayonnaise Type (やまやめんたいマヨネーズタイプ)

Mayonnaise with spicy cod roe

500g for 598 yen

Yamaya Mentai Mayonnaise Type (やまやめんたいマヨネーズタイプ)

This creamy, savory mayonnaise is infused with Yamaya mentaiko—a premium brand of Japanese marinated cod roe. I first discovered it during our 2019 Costco Japan trip and was instantly hooked. The flavor is rich, slightly spicy, and deeply umami—perfect for adding a Japanese twist to everyday meals.

You can sometimes find the regular-sized version at local Japanese supermarkets, but Costco offers a generous 500g bottle at a great price.

Yamaya Mentai Mayonnaise Type (やまやめんたいマヨネーズタイプ)

My favorite way to enjoy it? Egg toast on thick-cut Japanese bread. The combo of fluffy bread, soft egg, and spicy mayo is pure comfort food. If you’re curious, check out my earlier post: How to Make an Easy Egg Toast (Japanese Sliced Bread + Japanese Mayonnaise = Deliciousness).

Egg and Yamaya Mentaiko Mayonnaise over Toast

4. Fleup Baumkuchen (フルールしっとりなめらかおとなのバウム)

Baumkuchen

16 Pieces for 1,448 yen

Fleup Baumkuchen (フルールしっとりなめらかおとなのバウム)

This was our first time trying Fleup’s baumkuchen, and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Each slice was soft, moist, and subtly sweet, with a texture that felt somewhere between sponge cake and pancake. It’s the kind of treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee—simple, satisfying, and easy to share.

We ended up enjoying it with my family, and I’d definitely recommend picking up a box if you spot it at Costco Japan. It’s a gentle introduction to Japanese-style baumkuchen.

5. Hizatsuki Benishoga Senbei (ひざつき紅ショウガせんべい)

Shredded Ginger Pickles Flavored Riced Crackers

10 packs (32g each pack) for 968 yen

Hisatsuki Benishoga Senbei (ひざつき紅ショウガせんべい)

Have you ever tried benishoga (紅ショウガ), the bright red shredded ginger pickles often used as a topping for gyudon, okonomiyaki, or yakisoba? I absolutely love it—it’s tangy, spicy, and adds a punch of flavor to so many Japanese dishes.

So when I spotted these benishoga-flavored rice crackers at Costco Japan, I knew I had to try them. They were crispy, bold, and surprisingly true to the ginger pickle flavor—a perfect savory snack with a kick. My husband was especially impressed; he declared it his favorite find of the trip!

Hizatsuki Benishoga Senbei (ひざつき紅ショウガせんべい)

The box came with 10 individual packs, and honestly, I wish it had more. If you’re a fan of benishoga or curious to try something uniquely Japanese, this snack is a must.

Hizatsuki Benishoga Senbei (ひざつき紅ショウガせんべい)

6. Gobochi (ゴボチ)

Burdock Chips

10 Packs (17g per pack) for 1,248 yen

Gobochi (ゴボチ)

Have you ever tried burdock root, known as gobo in Japanese? I love its earthy, slightly nutty flavor, and often add it to miso soup for extra depth and fiber. So when I spotted Gobochi, a snack made from burdock chips, I knew it would be a hit.

Gobochi (ゴボチ)

According to the package, Gobochi isn’t just for snacking—you can also use it as a topping for udon noodles or salads, or even mix it into rice balls for a flavorful twist.

Gobochi (ゴボチ)

The box came with 10 small packs—perfect for snacking or sharing. As expected, each chip had a rich, savory gobo taste with a satisfying crunch. I honestly couldn’t get enough! If you enjoy root vegetables or want to try something uniquely Japanese, Gobochi is a delicious and wholesome choice.

Gobochi (ゴボチ)

7. Hinodeya x Kuzefuku Shiroebi Senbei (日の出屋製菓 x 久世福商店しろえびせんべい)

Umami Dashi Flavored Shrimp Rice Crackers

20 packs (13g each pack) for 1,158 yen

Hinodeya x Kuzefuku Shiroebi Senbei (日の出屋製菓 x 久世福商店しろえびせんべい)

This elegant snack instantly caught my eye—Kuzefuku Shoten is a well-known Japanese brand celebrated for its rich umami dashi products. These rice crackers are made with Toyama-grown rice and delicate white shrimp (shiroebi), then coated with Kuzefuku’s signature dashi powder for a deeply savory flavor.

Hinodeya x Kuzefuku Shiroebi Senbei (日の出屋製菓 x 久世福商店しろえびせんべい)

Each bite is crispy, aromatic, and layered with umami, making it a refined twist on traditional senbei. The 20 individually wrapped packs make it easy to share or savor slowly. If you’re curious about regional Japanese flavors, this is a beautiful way to taste Toyama’s coastal and culinary heritage.

8. Ashitamo Okura Ume Katsuo (アシタモオクラ梅かつお)

Japanese Plum Pickle Flavored Okura Chips

11 Packs (18.5g per pack) for 1,458 yen

Ashitamo Okura Ume Katsuo (アシタモオクラ梅かつお)

This was one of the most unique snacks in our haul—okra chips seasoned with ume (Japanese plum pickles) and katsuobushi (bonito flakes). The texture was a fun surprise: crispy on the outside, yet retaining that sticky, slightly slimy okra feel that’s so familiar in Japanese cooking.

I especially loved the bright, tangy ume flavor, which balanced beautifully with the savory depth of bonito. Even my mother-in-law was impressed—she said it was one of her favorites! If you’re open to adventurous textures and bold Japanese flavors, this snack is definitely worth trying.

Ashitamo Okura Ume Katsuo (アシタモオクラ梅かつお)

9. Cleat 3 Shurui No Imo Kenpi, 3 Kinds of Imo Kenpi (クリート３種類の芋けんぴ)

Crispy Japanese Sweet Potato Fries

11 Packs (65g each) for 1,288 yen

5 Packs of Regular Imo Kenpi
3 Packs of Salted Finely Cut Imo Kenpi
3 Packs of Brown Sugar Coated Finely Cut Imo Kenpi

Cleat 3 Shurui No Imo Kenpi, 3 Kinds of Imo Kenpi (クリート３種類の芋けんぴ)

This was a repeat purchase for me—I first bought this imo kenpi set at Costco Japan in 2019 and again in 2022, and I couldn’t resist picking it up once more this summer. The large bag includes three delicious varieties of crispy Japanese sweet potato fries.

Cleat 3 Shurui No Imo Kenpi, 3 Kinds of Imo Kenpi (クリート３種類の芋けんぴ)

Each type has its own charm, and the variety makes it fun to share and compare. With 11 individually wrapped packs, it’s also a perfect souvenir to bring home and share with friends and family. Sweet, salty, and nostalgic—this snack never disappoints.

10. ALLIE GEL UV EX (アリークロノビューティジェルUV EX)

Sunscreen

SPF50+ PA++++

Super Waterproof

2 Tubes (90g each tube) for 3,680 yen

ALLIE GEL UV EX (アリークロノビューティジェルUV EX)

I’m a huge fan of Japanese sunscreens—they offer serious UV protection while feeling lightweight, non-sticky, and breathable on the skin. Every time I visit Japan, I stock up on sunscreen products, and this time I chose ALLIE GEL UV EX for its beach-friendly ingredients and super waterproof formula.

ALLIE GEL UV EX (アリークロノビューティジェルUV EX)

I plan to wear it when swimming at the beach, and I’ve already shared one of the two tubes with my coworker. She was amazed by how light and smooth it felt—she’s now a fan too! Honestly, once you experience the texture and performance of Japanese sunscreen, it’s hard to go back to anything else.

ALLIE GEL UV EX (アリークロノビューティジェルUV EX)

11. Kyo Miyarisan, Strong Miyarisan (強ミヤリサン)

Probiotics

1,200 tablets for 5,498 yen

Kyo Miyarisan, Strong Miyarisan (強ミヤリサン)

This year, I’ve been especially interested in probiotics—they help balance gut bacteria, improve digestion, reduce harmful microbes, and support nutrient absorption and immune health. Before our Japan trip, I researched which Japanese probiotic to buy and ultimately chose Kyo Miyarisan, a well-known brand with positive reviews, especially among people managing autoimmune conditions like palmoplantar pustulosis.

I purchased it for my husband, who’s had chronic dermatitis of unknown cause for over 20 years. He’s been taking three tablets, three times daily, and we’ve noticed a gradual but encouraging improvement. It feels like his immune system is finally finding balance, and we’re hopeful this trend continues.

Kyo Miyarisan, Strong Miyarisan (強ミヤリサン)

You can find Kyo Miyarisan at many drugstores across Japan, but I found the best price at Costco Japan, with Amazon Japan coming in second. If you’re exploring Japanese health products, this one is worth considering.

Kyo Miyarisan, Strong Miyarisan (強ミヤリサン)

12. Asahi EBIOS Seichoyaku (アサヒエビオス整腸薬)

Brewer's Yeast + Probiotics

1,008 tablets for 2,548 yen

Asahi EBIOS Seichoyaku (アサヒエビオス整腸薬)

My primary care physician once told me that probiotics play an important role in women’s health, and that even one to three strains can be effective. Since then, I’ve made probiotics part of my daily routine. I started with Shin Biofermin (新ビオフェルミン) and now I’m taking Ebios Seichoyaku (エビオス整腸薬), which combines brewer’s yeast and probiotics.

Both have worked well for me, especially in helping regulate bowel movements. Although the recommended dosage is six tablets, three times daily (18 tablets total), I personally take just two tablets in the evening, and it still works for me.

Asahi EBIOS Seichoyaku (アサヒエビオス整腸薬)

Everyone’s body responds differently to probiotics, so it’s important to find the one that suits you.

Asahi EBIOS Seichoyaku (アサヒエビオス整腸薬)

13. Nakatani UV ALL WEATHER UMBRELLA (中谷遮光遮熱折り畳み傘)

UV Protection Umbrella

UPF50+

Shading Rate 100%

968 yen

Nakatani UV ALL WEATHER UMBRELLA (中谷遮光遮熱折り畳み傘)

Since I visited Japan in the summer, I knew I needed a UV protection umbrella—something I used to rely on when I lived there years ago. I’ve learned that for optimal UV and heat protection, the outer fabric should be light-colored to reflect sunlight, while the inner lining should be black to absorb and block rays.

Nakatani UV ALL WEATHER UMBRELLA (中谷遮光遮熱折り畳み傘)

At Costco Japan, I spotted this Nakatani UV umbrella and bought it without hesitation. I used it every single day during my trip, and it truly made a difference. It felt like I was walking under a personal patch of shade—cooler, more comfortable, and protected from the intense summer sun. For under 1,000 yen, it was one of the most practical and effective purchases of the season.

14. Uji Matcha Soft Serve (宇治抹茶ソフトクリーム)

Matcha Soft Serve

300 yen

Uji Matcha Soft Serve (宇治抹茶ソフトクリーム)

Costco Japan offers Uji Matcha Soft Serve at their food court for a limited time, and we were lucky to catch it during our summer visit. I had quite a few matcha soft serves while in Japan, and while this one wasn’t the absolute best, it was refreshing, creamy, and pleasantly bitter-sweet—a solid contender, especially considering the price was the cheapestof all.

If you’re craving a quick matcha fix while shopping, this soft serve is a fun and affordable treat.

15. Cold Brewed Iced Coffee (コールドブリューコーヒー)

Cold Brewed Coffee

150 yen

Cold Brewed Iced Coffee (コールドブリューコーヒー)

As coffee lovers—especially fans of simple black coffee—we couldn’t pass up the cold brewed iced coffee at the Costco Japan food court. At just 150 yen, it was an easy choice. The flavor was smooth, refreshing, and pleasantly bold, making it a satisfying pick-me-up during a hot summer shopping day.

I hope Costco US also starts serving cold brew coffee at a reasonable price in their food court—this one was such a treat!

16. Salmon Poke Rolls (サーモンポキロール)

Salmon Rolls

700 yen

Salmon Poke Rolls (サーモンポキロール)

For the first time, I spotted Salmon Poke Rolls at the Costco Japan food court and knew I had to try one. The roll featured generous cuts of fresh salmon and was labeled as Hawaiian-style poke, which added a fun international twist to the menu.

The salmon was plump, flavorful, and satisfying, and the overall roll felt fresh and well-balanced. I really enjoyed it—and at 700 yen, it was a tasty and affordable way to mix up our food court favorites.