Gunma Tonkotsu Ramen at Daruma Taishi – Rich, Local Flavor

A Tonkotsu Ramen Giant in Gunma

Daruma Taishi (豚骨ラーメン だるま大使 本店) serves some of the richest tonkotsu ramen in Gunma. They serve the kind of bowls that practically grab you by the collar and shout “PORK!”

It’s located on the outskirts of Takasaki City, where car is king. Luckily, there’s a parking lot. And you’ll want to drive here anyway. This shop is worth it.

Expect a full house and a bit of a wait. The kitchen takes its time…because this kind of richness can’t be rushed.

1. Classic Tonkotsu Ramen: Creamy, Heavy-Hitting

This is the signature bowl. The soup is a slow-cooked pork bone barrage. It's thick, cloudy, and creamy with that ever-so-slight modern froth on top. It’s unapologetically heavy, but not in a way that feels too greasy.

There’s an earthy depth to the broth and some sweetness too. It doesn’t just coat your mouth - it takes up residence.

2. Tonkotsu Ramen with Fish: Extra Layers

This bowl starts with the same tonkotsu base, but folds in fish flavors, making the soup more nuanced. There’s also a touch more sweetness here. Still rich, still heavy, but with a sea breeze that keeps things moving.

You’ll notice the same thin noodles, but the slurp feels lighter.

Side Note: Noodle Customization

Each ramen bowl comes with customizable noodle firmness. You can even get different noodle thickness depending on what ramen you order.

As for me? I always go extra firm. This is not just for the texture - I’m taking photos and videos, and I need those noodles to hold their shape.

A Light(er) Touch and Local Flair

They also offer a lighter ramen and even one based on a chicken soup, both gentler compared to the porky juggernauts above. Great if you’re dining with someone who isn’t ready for the full tonkotsu experience.

And if you’re hungry, consider a local favorite: the offal rice bowl (motsu don). Pork organ meat, soy sauce glaze, and white rice. It's a satisfying, earthy side that matches the ramen’s intensity.

Spacious, Popular, and Local-Approved

Daruma Taishi is clearly built for locals. You’ve got counter seating, plenty of tables, and a full kitchen staff powering through orders. The energy is high, and the ramen lives up to the hype.

So if you ever find yourself in Gunma - or want to go just for ramen - you now know where to stop.

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