Today's Close-Up S2025E07 - Recipes for Survival: How To Save Japan's Disappearing Ramen Shops

Ramen is one of Japan's most popular dishes, beloved by residents and foreign tourists alike. But rising ingredient and fuel costs are forcing many local shops to close. Other restaurants might hike their prices, but ramen businesses face a historic '1,000-yen barrier.' The dish has long been seen as an affordable comfort food and owners are reluctant to change that image. We look at how some shops are overcoming these difficulties and the innovative ways in which rural areas are preserving their local ramen culture.

Guests:
Hayashiya Kikuou (Rakugo storyteller)
Yamaji Rikiya (Food journalist)