
▲ In addition to the extra-large Ichiban Ramen, Menya Musashi Shinsan has now launched a limited-edition Qingshan Reproduction Shio Ramen. The refreshing and delicate style offers something different compared to Ichiban.
Text & Photos/Bear & Meow Rudy

Since getting to know Menya Musashi, the most frequent spots Bear and Meow have visited are probably the Torao and Kamiyama branches. The second to open, Kamiyama, is actually the headquarters of Menya Musashi’s noodle-making operations and serves as the experimental kitchen where the signature Musashi flavors are crafted. Many of the noodle flavors and adjustments originate here—it’s truly the soul of Menya Musashi!!

The shop isn’t especially large, but it has a classic Japanese counter-style ramen vibe.

The lighting in the shop is warm, making it especially cozy on cold days.

The warm lighting inside makes it especially cozy on cold days.

The place has great natural light, giving off an outdoor dining vibe.

Go upstairs, and you’ll find another dining area.

This time, Bear and Meow were invited to try new noodle dishes—naturally different from the usual Kamiyama menu—but before introducing the limited-edition new items, Bear also wants to walk everyone through the basics of the Kamiyama menu.


The natural light is great here, giving off an outdoor dining feel.


There are also options like rich tsukemen and curry ramen, plus side dishes—which Bear and Meow have both tried. The rich noodle dishes pair perfectly with refreshing sides.
On the left back side, hidden behind a curtain, is Musashi’s noodle factory.


Now, for just an extra 100 yen, you can choose one side dish and one drink—the value and variety are even better now. Alright, here comes the highlight: the Aoyama Revival Shio Ramen (280 yen per bowl), limited to 20 bowls each at lunch and dinner. As the name suggests, it features a new broth made with three different types of salt (Himalayan pink salt, Mongolian rock salt, and organic salt) and kelp, combined with the original dual broth (pork bone and seafood), adding a refreshing note to the rich flavor.

This time, Bear and Meow were once again invited to try new menu items. Of course, they’re different from the usual offerings at Shinsan—but before introducing the new limited-edition ramen, Bear also wants to walk everyone through the basics of Shinsan’s regular menu.

Plus, there are three different side dishes—all refreshing and flavorful. Honestly, Menya Musashi’s sides are top-notch (switching between them and rich noodles bite by bite is amazing).

That includes the daily-limited signature Ichiban Ramen (NT$380 per bowl). The super-sized portion is truly a favorite among big eaters (or meat lovers). Every time Bear and Meow visit, they always get a bowl of it!! Then there’s Shinsan Ramen and Special Shinsan Ramen—the broth here has the highest proportion (and richest flavor) of seafood among all the outlets, but you can still choose between a light or rich taste. And if you want more noodles, just let them know in advance!!

Sesame Spinach (50 yen per order): a combo of sesame sauce and spinach that’s 100% refreshing (Meow loves greens, and this dish never gets old).

There are also thick tsukemen and curry ramen to choose from. And of course, there are side dishes. Bear and Meow have tried them all—the hearty ramen pairs really well with the refreshing sides.

This bowl of Kamiyama’s longtime signature Ippon Ramen (380 yen per bowl) is something Bear and Meow always order when they visit (though it’s sometimes sold out...).

Currently, there are two Menya Musashi locations in Taipei City (Huzakuro in the East District and this Shinsan location). In New Taipei City, there’s the one at Global Mall selling fried foods alongside ramen (called Ni-Tian). In Zuoying, there’s also the Mushigane Shop, which serves pure pork bone broth with original-style char siu (reportedly, they’re planning to open several more branches this year... seriously impressive!! Wonder what new surprises they’ll have).

The noodles still have great chewiness. Even with a lighter broth choice this time, they remain flavorful and satisfyingly firm.

Now, for just an additional NT$100, you can choose one side dish and one drink. That’s even better value and a more complete meal!! Alright, the highlight of this visit is finally here—the Qingshan Reproduction Shio Ramen, limited to 20 bowls each at lunchtime and dinnertime (NT$280 per bowl). As the name suggests, it’s made with three different types of salt (Himalayan pink salt, Mongolian rock salt, and organic salt), along with kombu, to create a brand-new broth. Plus, it combines the original dual broth system (pork bone and seafood combo), adding a refreshing note to the rich flavors.
As soon as you get close to the bowl, you can smell the shiso aroma, and the top layer of yuzu peel adds a refreshing touch. The flavor is very different from Kamiyama’s usual rich style. The pork slices have great bite, and the generous portions leave Bear and Meow feeling satisfied and not overly full—even after finishing a whole Ippon Ramen together.

The whole table arrived in one go... It was so good we almost wanted to dig in without taking pictures!! (It’s been a while since we had Ichiban.)
Finally, add another bowl of rich tsukemen. With two broth-based bowls and one tsukemen, you can experience both rich and refreshing flavors, and the contrast really highlights the charm of Menya Musashi.
Plus, there were three different kinds of side dishes—all refreshing and flavorful. Honestly, Menya Musashi’s sides are top-notch (alternating bites with the rich-flavored ramen is absolutely delightful).
A food-loving couple who occasionally go all out on indulgent meals and adventures, but generally live by the motto “money is limited, appetite is endless.” They run a blog under the same name."Bear and Cat Eat the World to Ruin It"Updates in sync.
[Menya Musashi Kamizan]
Address:No. 18, Lane 121, Section 1, Zhongshan N. Road, Taipei City (opposite Unagi specialty store, Hosei-ya)
Phone:(02)2542-8222
Business Hours:11:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Open daily)
Recommendation:In terms of broth, the Kamizan branch is the overseas location closest to the umami concentration of the original Menya Musashi in Japan, but it’s also saltier and more intense. If you prefer a lighter taste, try the Ao-yama Replica Shio Ramen!!
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