Today, July 29, 2026, a long-awaited new shop has opened in Koshigaya City, Saitama Prefecture. Its name is "Agode Kurae Kitakoshigaya." It's a Jiro-style ramen shop known for its hearty portions and satisfyingly junky look, and this opening marks the popular chain's expansion into the Koshigaya area. In this article, we'll dive into the story behind the opening and everything that makes this shop appealing. Whether you're already a ramen fan or someone who's always wanted to try Jiro-style ramen for the first time, this one's for you.
What is Jiro-style ramen?
If the term "Jiro-style" doesn't ring a bell, you're not alone. Jiro-style ramen is a hearty ramen genre featuring thick noodles piled high with generous amounts of vegetables (bean sprouts and cabbage), thick slices of chashu pork, and garlic. The bowls are famous for their overflowing, larger-than-life presentation, delivering the kind of satisfying, junk-food-style indulgence that keeps fans coming back for more.
At Jiro-style shops, it's also common practice for customers to tell the staff their preferences when ordering—things like how much vegetables or garlic they'd like. It might feel a little intimidating the first time, but once you get the hang of it, you can have your bowl customized just the way you like it. The shop's bold name, "Agode Kurae" (loosely, "eat it with your jaw"), captures that same wild, hearty spirit.
From Kasukabe and Soka to a homecoming opening in Koshigaya
"Agode Kurae" was founded in January 2022 in Kasukabe by owner Kenji Ono, who was born and raised in Koshigaya City. The shop then opened a second location in Soka in July 2023, steadily building a loyal following. And now, the owner has finally achieved an opening in his hometown of Koshigaya with this new Kitakoshigaya branch. Looking back at the steady steps the shop has taken since its founding makes this opening feel all the more meaningful.
Owner Ono commented, "I'd always wanted to open a shop right by a station, and I was finally able to do that near Kitakoshigaya Station," reflecting his strong attachment to the local area. Bringing the flavors and know-how built up across two shops in Kasukabe and Soka, this truly is a homecoming opening—one that feels especially meaningful for Koshigaya residents. Fans who already love the original locations are likely thrilled that they can now enjoy the same flavors closer to home.
A prime location right by Kitakoshigaya Station's west exit
The Kitakoshigaya branch is located in Kitakoshigaya 4-chome, Koshigaya City, Saitama Prefecture—just steps from the west exit of Kitakoshigaya Station. The shop has taken over the former location of the ramen chain "Chinrai."
Being so close to the station makes it easy to stop by on your way home from work or school, or whenever a craving hits. The interior features both counter seats and table seats, making it a great spot whether you're grabbing a quick bite solo or coming with friends. Be sure to soak in the lively energy that only a freshly opened shop can offer.
Since the location was previously home to "Chinrai," it's a familiar spot for many locals. With a new shop sign now added to that familiar scenery, the streets around Kitakoshigaya are sure to feel a little more lively.
Menu: mazesoba, spicy mazesoba, and ramen
The menu centers on three options—mazesoba, spicy mazesoba, and ramen—all priced at 1,000 yen. Limited-time menu items are also planned, so there should always be something new to look forward to on repeat visits.
Owner Ono explained, "Since there's a university nearby, I wanted to make the junky, satisfying mazesoba our main offering for students." With a university near Kitakoshigaya Station, the shop designed its lineup to be approachable and enjoyable for younger customers too. The hearty, filling nature of Jiro-style ramen makes it a perfect fit for hungry students, and it's just as satisfying for a hearty lunch or dinner. Whether you go classic with the ramen, dive into the junky richness of mazesoba where noodles and sauce mix together, or turn up the heat with the spicy mazesoba, there's something to match your mood.
In closing: a hearty bowl waiting for you in Kitakoshigaya
"Agode Kurae Kitakoshigaya" represents a true homecoming opening—a shop that built its reputation in Kasukabe and Soka, now arriving in the owner's hometown of Koshigaya at long last. With its unbeatable location right by Kitakoshigaya Station's west exit, it's the kind of place you can drop into on a whim. If you've never tried Jiro-style ramen before, this is a great chance to dive into a hearty, satisfying bowl.
The energy and buzz of a freshly opened shop is something you can only experience right now, at this moment. Whether you live in Kitakoshigaya or are willing to travel a bit further, this is a shop worth visiting. Start with the classic ramen or the mazesoba, and experience the bold world of "Agode Kurae" for yourself.
