Google Doodle Celebrates Ramen: Japan’s Iconic Comfort Food

Itadakimasu! On July 11, Japan celebrates a dish that’s become both a national treasure and a global comfort food — ramen with doodle. This date, cleverly chosen for its symbolism, combines “7” (which resembles the curve of a ramen spoon or renge) and “11” (mirroring a pair of chopsticks), making it the perfect occasion to honor one of the world’s most iconic noodle dishes.

Ramen is far more than just a bowl of soup — it’s a culinary canvas that has captured hearts and appetites across continents. At its core, ramen typically consists of wheat noodles served in a rich, flavorful broth, topped with ingredients like chāshū (braised pork), ajitsuke tamago (marinated soft-boiled egg), nori (dried seaweed), kamaboko (fish cake), and green onions. The flavor of the broth may vary, including soy-based (shoyu), miso, salt (shio), or pork bone (tonkotsu) varieties, creating endless possibilities.

But what makes ramen truly unique is its regional diversity across Japan. From the creamy, pork-based tonkotsu ramen of Kyushu, to the hearty miso ramen from the snowy island of Hokkaido, each region puts its own spin on this timeless dish. The Doodle celebrating Ramen Day even showcases these regional variations, highlighting how deeply ramen is woven into Japanese culture.

Ramen’s history dates back to the early 20th century as a Japanese twist on Chinese wheat noodle soups, first gaining popularity in Yokohama’s Chinatown. Its rise to international fame, however, began with the invention of instant ramen in 1958, followed by the creation of cup noodles, which made it a pantry staple worldwide.

Today, ramen is more than just food — it’s a symbol of innovation, tradition, and comfort, bridging cultures and bringing people together one slurp at a time. Whether enjoyed at a cozy ramen bar in Tokyo, a late-night food stall, or as a quick meal from a convenience store, this dish continues to evolve while remaining rooted in Japanese soul and culinary artistry.

So on Ramen Day, raise your chopsticks and renge in honor of a dish that warms the stomach and the spirit. Happy Ramen Day — or as they say in Japan, Itadakimasu!