AFURI Ramen | A Refreshing, Citrus-Kissed Bowl at Yokohama Landmark Plaza

11/28/202512/02/2025

A gentle aroma of yuzu fills the air as you take your first sip of the golden, crystal-clear broth. This is AFURI — a ramen brand that redefines what ramen can be. Known for its light, elegant flavors and delicate balance, AFURI has become a beloved name across Japan and abroad, winning over fans who prefer something less heavy but still deeply satisfying.

I recently popped into their branch inside Yokohama Landmark Plaza, in the heart of Minato Mirai, to experience that signature AFURI touch. From the clean, stylish atmosphere to the refined flavors, it’s a spot that feels just as welcoming for solo diners — particularly women — as it does for groups or travelers.

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What Makes AFURI Special

The name AFURI comes from Mount Afuri (Ōyama) in Kanagawa, where the brand originally sourced natural spring water for its broth. That mountain connection symbolises purity, and you can truly taste it in every bowl.

AFURI’s signature ramen features a clear chicken-based broth paired with a hint of fresh Japanese yuzu (citrus fruit), creating a refreshing yet umami-rich balance. The brand takes pride in its commitment to no artificial additives, colourings, or chemical seasonings, offering a natural taste that feels light and clean.

Their most famous dish, the Yuzu Shio Ramen, can be customised in two styles — “Tanrei” (light and clear) or “Maromi” (rich and slightly thicker) — so you can match it to your mood. Whether in Tokyo, Yokohama, or even abroad, AFURI’s flavour is remarkably consistent — something that frequent ramen lovers truly appreciate.

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Yokohama Landmark Plaza Branch — Location Info

📍 AFURI Yokohama Landmark Plaza
• Address: Landmark Plaza 1F, 2-2-1 Minatomirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa
• Access: 3–5 mins walk from Minatomirai Station, 7 mins from Sakuragicho Station
• Opening hours: 11:00–22:00 (last order 21:30)
• Payment: Cash, card, and digital payment accepted

How to order

Purchase a meal ticket from the vending machine at the entrance before queueing (Yokohama branch system)

Inside the Restaurant — Modern, Clean and Welcoming

AFURI’s Yokohama branch features an open kitchen, so you can watch the chefs prepare each bowl with impressive precision. The space is bright, clean, and modern, with polished steel counters and warm pendant lights giving it a café-style feel.

I noticed quite a few women dining alone; it’s the kind of place where you can comfortably pop in after work without feeling out of place. Around 20% of the customers were international visitors, a sign of how popular AFURI has become among tourists looking for a lighter, authentic ramen experience.

Tasting the Classic Yuzu Shio Ramen

Of course, I had to order the signature Yuzu Shio Ramen (Tanrei) with seared chashu.

The first spoonful was a revelation — a refreshing citrus aroma rising with the steam, followed by a clean, layered broth blending chicken and seafood umami. It’s light yet full of depth, the kind of flavor that lingers gently rather than overwhelms.

The noodles were remarkably thin, wholewheat straight noodles that felt almost delicate. Their smooth texture and perfect bite matched the refined broth beautifully — every mouthful felt balanced and intentional.

The seared chashu pork added a lovely contrast: slightly smoky, tender, and not too fatty, complementing the yuzu-forward soup without overpowering it.

Choosing Your Custom Bowl

At AFURI, you can choose between:

• Tanrei (淡麗) — a light, golden broth highlighting the natural chicken flavors
• Maromi (まろ味) — a richer version with a touch more chicken oil (chiyu) for a fuller mouthfeel

If it’s your first visit, Tanrei is the best way to experience the clean, signature AFURI taste. But if you prefer a richer, more comforting bowl, Maromi is equally satisfying.

Who It’s For

AFURI is perfect for:
• Those who prefer lighter, cleaner ramen
• Health-conscious diners or anyone avoiding artificial additives
• Solo travelers and women dining alone
• Tourists looking for an easy, non-heavy lunch while exploring Yokohama

No matter which branch you visit — from Harajuku to Yokohama — you’ll find that signature AFURI balance of freshness, simplicity, and refinement.

Final Thoughts

AFURI proves that ramen doesn’t need to be heavy to be satisfying. The Yokohama Landmark Plaza branch combines clean design, an open kitchen, and light flavors that perfectly fit its stylish location.

The mix of yuzu aroma, thin wholewheat noodles, and clear chicken broth makes for a bowl you won’t forget. Whether you’re exploring Minato Mirai or simply want a lighter alternative to rich tonkotsu ramen, AFURI is always a refreshing choice.

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