If you've ever been to Niseko or Japan before most likely you've enjoyed a meal Hokkaido is famous for, ramen noodles. A simple yet satisfying meal with its deep delicious flavours it is an awesome winter warmer that makes the perfect lunch or dinner, especially if you are pressed for time. It also goes very well washed down with a beer. A little out of Niseko you can find a fantastic ramen shop that is hard to beat and there is plenty of competition out there. 

In Japanese this store is known as えぞらーめん勝二 or Ezo Ramen Katsuji and it is located in the small country side village of Rankoshi. The shop is a 30 minute scenic drive from Hirafu that follows route 343 to route 5. During the winter months you will enjoy a beautiful snowscape and glimpses of the Shiribetsu river.

But what about the Ramen, tell me about the ramen! The restaurant is small and cozy and has half a dozen tables and a few bar seats. The staff are very friendly and accommodating and the pride they take in the food they serve is very obvious, everything is of course immaculately clean and nicely presented. Don't expect luxurious leather seating and oak table tops but you can expect great service and excellent food. There are a choice of ramen flavours to choose from, the one pictured is possibly the most delicious 濃厚(Rich thick) miso. There is also regular miso, soya sauce, kimichi, spicy and salt flavours along with a small slection of delicious side dishes.

If you are in Niseko winter or summer the journey to Ezo Ramen Katsuji is well worth the journey, the scenery is beautiful and the Ramen second to none!