About Us
Where It All Began
Kyoto, summer 2004. Nestled among the tranquil, tree-lined streets of Shimogamo—home to the UNESCO-listed Shimogamo Shrine—an unassuming ramen shop named Towzen quietly opened its doors.
Founder Minoru Yonekawa, a veteran chef from his family’s yudofu restaurant, had long been captivated by diners savouring every drop of his tofu broth. One day, he enriched that stock with soy milk—and watched as this simple twist won over staff and guests alike. It wasn’t long before he realised that this soy-milk ramen deserved its own dedicated home.
ABOUT FOUNDER
Rooted In Buddhist Tradition
Towzen’s founder, Minoru Yonekawa-san, lives by the teachings of the Five Contemplations—a Buddhist verse that encourages gratitude before eating, reflection on one’s worthiness to receive the meal, mindful regard for health, cultivation of right attitude, and dedication to the path of awakening.
To him, the act of savoring ramen mirrors the journey of life itself: waiting, appreciating, experiencing, and awakening.
A seasoned chef with deep roots in Kyoto’s culinary traditions, Yonekawa-san brings years of diverse experience—from his family’s yudofu restaurant to a French restaurant, sushi chain, and iconic Kyoto bar. His background has shaped Towzen into a unique dining destination where Zen philosophy meets refined cuisine.
World Peace Ramen
Today, Towzen stands among Japan’s longest-running vegan ramen establishments. From Kyoto to Kuala Lumpur and Batam, our bowls uphold Yonekawa-san’s vision of “World Peace Ramen”: exceptional flavour married with compassion and cultural integrity. Every recipe honours the 13th-century Buddhist tradition of shōjin ryōri—free of animal products and alliums—so that each dish nourishes body and spirit alike.
Through the union of culinary art and Zen practice, ramen becomes more than a dish—it becomes a reflection of inner stillness and purity. To founder Minoru Yonekawa-san, soy milk ramen is not merely an exploration of health and flavor, but a pursuit of peace.
Healthy & Sustainable Dining
We champion mindful eating by using the finest olive oil in dressings and cooking—reserving specialised frying oil solely for achieving that perfect crisp. Each ingredient is chosen for its quality and flavour, ensuring every dish arrives as a handcrafted masterpiece.
By enjoying our olive-oil-based creations, you help us minimise food waste and promote a healthier planet.