Things I'm grateful for during winter in Japan: ramen

In my home country we don't really have foods that you'd designate as summer or winter foods. Sure, back there I would prepare lighter things in the summer and heartier things in the winter, but I don't think seasonality is as noticeable there.

Here though, I feel like when the cold weather arrives it's immediately time to get your fill of all the wintery favorites, and ramen is right up there at the top of the list for me. It's so comforting and warming, and it's one of the cheaper dishes to enjoy out at a restaurant -- at least in my local area, anyway!

I like that there's a lot of variation with broths and toppings depending on where you go, so it's easy not to get bored. And in a pinch (and on a budget), you can always do the cup noodle option which is also satisfying.

What's your favorite winter meal in Japan?