Streaming period [JST] 2025/02/01 11:00:00 – 2025/05/01 11:00:00

You can now stream the beautiful documentary about The God of Ramen online at YFF Theatre. This free streaming service has been available for nearly a decade now, and it helps popularize Japanese films and videos around the world. The Japan Foundation is funding this service, and it’s a great place to check out fond favourites, like this foodie staple.

After Come Back Anytime, I had to wonder what other documentaries exist about renowned ramen chefs. When the craving hits, and I need something more to warm my soul. I’m not out to look for how to recreate recipes at home. Instead, I was hoping for insight about why Taishoken ramen is better than others. When this dish is comfort food for the masses, and only a handful of people know how to elevate it to ambrosia like levels. 

But what’s more important are the legacies. Sadly, these masters have to retire. Others don’t want to leave, and as stubborn as chef Kazuo Yamagishi was, he eventually has to pass his knowledge down. Sadly, there’s no family who wants to continue. Thankfully, the apprentices who learned from him can keep the legacy alive. Yamagishi created the Taishoken style of ramen, where diners dip the noodles in the broth instead of having them served together.

While I’m sad I didn’t know about this operation when I visited Japan over a decade ago, I didn’t lose the opportunity by choosing a restaurant in a secluded part of the city over a trendy one. But what’s more significant are the people you see every day who become regulars. That’s what this documentary does–to look at who this person is and why he continued for as long as he had.

The fact that his legacy still impacts the restaurant industry today speaks volumes, and I believe I’ll make a proper bowl of ramen this winter to honour him. As truly frosty nights have finally settled into my home city, there’s nothing like toasty warm ramen broth to keep me delighted until the next day.

4 Blokes out of 5