Asking for a noodle refill is not only normal in Japan—it’s part of ramen culture! Kaedama is more common in Fukuoka (Hakata-style) ramen, where the noodles are thin and firm—perfect for quick cooking and fast refills. But you can ask for a noodle top-up anywhere you can get ramen. Here’s how to do it!
What is Kaedama (替え玉)?
Kaedama literally means “replacement ball (of noodles).“
It’s a system where you can order an extra serving of noodles to add to your remaining broth. Super common at ramen shops, especially those specializing in tonkotsu ramen (like in Hakata-style ramen shops).
How to Order Kaedama
First, finish most of your original noodles but keep your broth.
Raise your hand or say politely:
「替え玉お願いします！」(Kaedama onegaishimasu!)
“Kaedama, please!”
Some places have buttons on the table or tickets from a vending machine.
The staff will bring fresh noodles—often in seconds!
Pro Tips
More Ramen Etiquette
When you’re sitting in a cozy ramen-ya in Japan, maybe somewhere tucked down a narrow alley lit with lanterns, and you slurp your noodles with gusto—it’s not just about the food. It’s an unspoken cultural moment. Slurping isn’t rude there; in fact, it’s a sign of appreciation. You’re not just eating—you’re engaging in a ritual that celebrates warmth, flavor, and craftsmanship.
Ramen chefs often spend years perfecting their broth, adjusting the saltiness, the depth of the umami, the clarity or thickness. Every bowl is a signature. And when you ask for kaedama, you’re telling the chef, “This broth is so good, I need more noodles to soak it up.” It’s a compliment in action.
It’s one of those small, beautiful things about Japan—where the ordinary becomes meaningful. Even something as simple as a noodle refill becomes a shared understanding between you and the chef behind the counter.
![Types of Ramen: Hakata Ramen. Image courtesy of [cipher] via Flickr Commons.](https://ramendatabase.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Types-of-Ramen_Hakata-Ramen-300x199.jpg)
