Why Do People in Japan “Noisily” Eat Ramen?

In Japan, ramen is not just a dish, but a sensory experience that involves all the senses. One of the most distinctive characteristics of this noodle soup is the way it is consumed: with a loud slurp. This gesture, which might seem unusual or even rude in other cultures, is instead deeply rooted in Japanese tradition and has both practical and cultural significance.

Why It's Legal to Eat Ramen With a "Slurp" in Japan

In Japan, ramen is eaten by slurping for a variety of cultural and practical reasons. Slurping the noodles noisily is considered a sign of appreciation for the dish, showing that you are enjoying the meal. This behavior, known as slurping, also serves a practical purpose: it helps cool the noodles from the boiling broth, making eating easier and more enjoyable.

Vigorously inhaling the noodles also vaporizes the aromas of the broth, stimulating the receptors in the throat and nose and revealing all the hidden flavors of the soup. This practice, which dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867), is considered a sign of appreciation and sharing of the meal, and reflects the Japanese attention to detail and culinary experience: it spread to better enjoy the flavors of cold soba, a type of buckwheat noodle. Finally, slurping ramen is a way to share the experience of the meal, creating a convivial atmosphere and demonstrating gratitude for the food.

In general, making noise while eating or drinking in Japan is an accepted behavior and often considered a compliment to the cook. In fact, ramen is not the only dish that is eaten making noise: in general, all soupy dishes, but also dry noodles are eaten in this way.

Don't try this dish the same way you would try spaghetti: to enjoy ramen like the locals do, you have to be as loud as possible because it would almost be rude not to do so. In some circumstances, the gesture could even be forgiven as a tourist.