Between Higashine City and Murayama City, there is a beloved Chinese diner where people of all ages come to enjoy hearty meals. From casual lunch visits to family outings, Shinpūtei is a versatile restaurant that welcomes everyone. Elderly regulars, businesspeople, and hardworking tradesmen all gather here, making it a lively neighborhood Chinese eatery. As a frequent visitor myself, I’ll introduce recommended dishes and even some “off‑menu” items that only regulars know about, along with photos.

Discovering Shinpūtei Between Higashine and Murayama

Shinpūtei is a long‑established Chinese diner loved by locals. The menu includes ramen, fried rice, set meals, and more, all offered at reasonable prices with generous portions. Among them, the signature Shina Soba is especially popular. Its nostalgic, old‑fashioned flavor has made it a long‑time favorite.

The restaurant is located along Prefectural Route 120, just past the “Oban Murayama Store” heading toward Higashine. It truly sits right on the border between the two cities. (Interestingly, the Oban store is called “Murayama Store,” but its official address is in Higashine.)

Inside, you’ll find counter seating, tables, and tatami seating, making it comfortable for solo diners and families alike. Many regulars visit often, and the warm atmosphere reflects how much the community loves this place.

Shinpūtei’s Interior Is Surprisingly Spacious

Although the exterior looks modest, the inside is unexpectedly spacious with plenty of seating. The tatami area in the back is large enough to host small banquets.

Unbeatable Value — Shinpūtei’s Surprisingly Affordable Menu

The first thing that shocks most visitors is the price. You’ll find yourself wondering, “Is it really okay to charge this little nowadays?” The affordability makes it easy for families or groups to dine without worrying about the bill.

Trying Shinpūtei’s Menu — Including Off‑Menu Items

Now let’s take a look at some of the dishes. Along with the standard menu items, I also ordered a few off‑menu dishes that only regulars tend to request.

*Prices listed are as of February 2026.

Shina Soba (Salt)

Shinpūtei’s signature Shina Soba features a beautifully clear broth. Thinly sliced char siu, bamboo shoots, nori, and a hot‑spring‑mark naruto (the restaurant is located in Onsen‑machi) complement the gentle, flavorful soup.

It’s the kind of broth you want to drink to the last drop—though I reluctantly stop myself for the sake of my blood pressure. At 530 yen including tax, the quality feels almost unbelievable.

Off‑Menu: Salt Ramen

This dish doesn’t appear on the menu. I loved the salt‑flavored Shina Soba so much that I nervously asked, “Could you make the regular ramen in salt flavor?” To my surprise, they agreed—and since then I’ve ordered it several times.

A large piece of their tender, melt‑in‑your‑mouth char siu sits on top, along with nori and plenty of chopped green onions. It’s so good that I wish they would add it to the official menu.

Off‑Menu: Char Siu Ramen (Salt)

This one also isn’t listed on the menu. Since the salt ramen was possible, I wondered if a salt‑flavored char siu ramen might be, too. I asked politely—and they said yes.

Three large, tender slices of char siu top the bowl, and the dish costs 930 yen including tax. Honestly, I think a rice bowl topped with this char siu would be a huge hit.

Chicken Cutlet Curry

Shinpūtei offers more than just ramen. This hearty chicken cutlet curry is a great example. A crispy chicken cutlet is topped with a rich, slightly sweet curry full of depth and flavor.

And all of this for just 660 yen including tax. Even with chicken cutlet, the price is incredibly affordable—truly a friend to everyday diners.

Lunch Menu and Set Options

Shinpūtei offers daily lunch specials as well as a variety of set menus.

In addition to the daily ramen set that comes with a Chinese side dish and rice, you can choose sets featuring chicken cutlet, or combine ramen with “half fried rice” or “half curry.” It’s fun to create your own custom combination.

Gomoku Uma-ni Ramen Lunch (Thursday)

This was the first lunch I ordered when I visited Shinpūtei. The ramen comes with gomoku uma-ni and a bowl of rice, making it a very filling meal.

This dish is what made me fall in love with Shinpūtei’s char siu, and from that moment on, I knew I would become a regular.

Chicken Sauce Cutlet Bowl Set

A fluffy layer of shredded cabbage rests on top of warm rice, followed by a crispy chicken cutlet coated in savory sauce. Paired with Shina Soba, this hearty set costs 780 yen.

It’s perfect for days when you want to eat a lot without spending much.

Salt Ramen with Half Fried Rice

Here, I paired my beloved salt ramen with half a portion of fried rice. Salt ramen is 750 yen, and half fried rice is 400 yen.

There are endless combinations to enjoy. Try creating your own favorite pairing.

Access Information for Shinpūtei

Shinpūtei is located about nine minutes by car from the Murayama Interchange exit.

Dining in is great, but many menu items are also available for takeout, making it easy to enjoy Shinpūtei’s flavors at home.

Summary

Affordable yet never cheap—Shinpūtei is filled with the owner’s dedication and kindness. It’s a place that is gentle on the wallet while still offering delicious meals, perfect for someone like me who often eats lunch out.

If you’re in the Higashine–Murayama area and craving Chinese food, this is the first place I would recommend. Be sure to give it a try.

Click here for Shinpūtei’s restaurant information

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