The Cup Noodles Museum Osaka Ikeda, formerly known as the Instant Ramen Museum, is a captivating destination dedicated to the history and innovation of instant noodles. It’s an interactive and fun experience that appeals to all ages, especially those with a love for quirky Japanese culture and comfort food. The museum brings to life the story of how a humble kitchen invention became a global culinary phenomenon.
Located in Ikeda City, Osaka Prefecture, the museum is built in the hometown of Momofuku Ando, the inventor of instant ramen and founder of Nissin Food Products Co., Ltd. It was here in 1958 that Ando developed the world’s first instant noodle, Chicken Ramen, launching what would become a multi-billion-dollar industry. The museum stands as a tribute to his entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and dedication to innovation.
Exhibitions and Attractions
- The Birth of Chicken Ramen: A faithful recreation of the work shed where Momofuku Ando invented the world’s first instant noodles, Chicken Ramen, in 1958.
- Chicken Ramen Factory: Here, visitors can roll up their sleeves and make Chicken Ramen by hand, just as Momofuku Ando did in his original backyard shed.
- My CUPNOODLES Factory: An interactive experience where visitors can design their own Cup Noodles packaging and select from various soup flavors and ingredients to create a personalized product.
- Instant Noodles Tunnel: A visual display showcasing over 800 product packages, illustrating the evolution and global expansion of instant noodles.
- Momofuku Ando and the Story of Instant Noodles: An exhibit detailing the life and achievements of Momofuku Ando, highlighting his contributions to food culture worldwide.
The museum also features various nostalgic displays, including historic packaging, a small theatre showing entertaining anecdotes about the invention of instant noodles, and other artefacts from Japan’s Showa era. Before you leave, be sure to visit the gift shop, which offers a wide range of exclusive Cup Noodles merchandise and limited-edition souvenirs — perfect for fans of quirky Japanese pop culture and foodies alike.
Visitor Information
Admission: Free of charge. The hands on attractions, Chicken Ramen Factory and My CUPNOODLES Factory do have a fee and may require reservation.
Operating Hours: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with last admission at 3:30 PM. Closed on Tuesdays (or the following day if Tuesday is a national holiday) and during the New Year holidays.
Access: A short walk from Ikeda Station on the Hankyu-Takarazuka Line. Follow the train line east and turn right at the Tourist Information Centre. Also look out for the signs featuring the Cup noodle chicken mascot pointing the way.
Official Website
https://cupnoodles-museum.jp
