Introducing Takoyaki Ryu-chan

Hello, travelers!
Drinking a full liter of warm water a day is harder than I thought…
This is Binako, your Sarukuma writer!

Today I’m introducing a charming little spot in Jonan-machi Higashi-Ataka, Minami-ku, Kumamoto City:
“Takoyaki Ryu-chan”.

I had passed by this shop several times,
always tempted by the bright “Cheap Takoyaki!” sign,
but every time I tried to visit it happened to be the regular closing day.
This time the shop was finally open, and I was able to drop in!!

You can park your car right next to the shop – super convenient if you’re road-tripping around Kumamoto.

There’s also a vending machine on-site,
so you can grab a cold drink to go with your snack – perfect travel companion! ♪

The first thing you spot when you reach the order window is the
White Taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries) – 300 yen each.
They’re a smaller size, easy to eat, and kids gobble them up in seconds.

They also serve shaved ice (kakigori).
My personal favorites are Uji matcha and cola flavors – a great refreshment on a hot Kyushu day.

Other treats on the menu include Shakes – 220 yen each
and Soft-Serve Ice Cream – 200 yen each.
Everything is wonderfully wallet-friendly.

Recommended Menu at Takoyaki Ryu-chan

Of course, the star of the show is the takoyaki (octopus balls) – the shop’s signature dish.
・Salt flavor – 350 yen
・Green Onion & Salt – 400 yen
・Classic Sauce – 400 yen

Sometimes the simplest flavors are the most irresistible.

They also offer combo sets – which is rare for a takoyaki shop in Japan!
It’s such a thoughtful little touch, isn’t it?

And just when you’re glancing past the combo board, your eyes catch this:
Fried Octopus (Agetako) – 250 yen
Wait… lol
That’s not just “cheap” anymore lol
It’s almost shockingly affordable.

This time, I went with one of the most popular picks – the Salt Takoyaki!

The clean, simple presentation absolutely whets the appetite.
Even back in the car, the smell was practically begging me
to dig in already…

Looking at them, they almost seem to be smiling,
happy to be eaten.

A generous topping of bonito flakes mingles perfectly with just the right amount of salt,
and the batter inside is wonderfully fluffy.

The octopus pieces are big and pleasingly chewy –
so for 350 yen, the value is honestly unbeatable…

Next time I want to try the fried octopus and the white taiyaki!

If you’re driving through southern Kumamoto, definitely make a pit stop here ~ ^^

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is current as of the visit. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please check before you go.