Popular ramen shop in Sumida, Tokyo, “Chuka Soba Masayoshi,” destroyed in a fire, launches crowdfunding to rebuild

On May 30, we opened a crowdfunding project to rebuild our ramen restaurant "Chinese Soba Masayoshi", which has been loved by the community in Sumida-ku, Tokyo, after a fire forced the restaurant to shut down in March 2025.

Project page: https://camp-fire.jp/projects/view/851310

Crowdfunding for rebuilding began on May 30

Established in 1978 (Showa 53)

The ramen shop has its roots in a local Chinese diner founded in 1978 and has been run by three generations of the same family. The current owner, Hinako Takahashi, and her mother launched this project with a strong desire to preserve the family’s flavor and the place their memories are tied to. They aim to reopen in a new location.

After the fire

The fire was caused by spontaneous combustion inside the wall due to years of accumulated heat—a phenomenon known as low-temperature ignition. The damage was devastating, with everything lost, including their signature ramen base and kitchen equipment. Miraculously, a family photo was the only thing that survived.

Supported daily by many loyal customers

The crowdfunding aims to raise funds for purchasing kitchen equipment and supplies, and for covering operating costs after reopening. Many warm messages from supporters are posted on the project page, reflecting the deep connection between the shop and its community.

Best-selling menu: “Masayoshi Set”

Masayoshi is a beloved shop not only in the local area but also among ramen fans across Japan. It has been featured in major media, including BS-TBS's “Ramen wo Taberu”, SUSURU TV., and Tsujita BOX.

The new shop is scheduled to reopen in August 2025. The crowdfunding campaign runs through the end of July 2025.

[Crowdfunding Overview]

Project Title: Rebuilding “Chuka Soba Masayoshi” – A Beloved Ramen Shop Lost in a Fire

Duration: Until the end of July 2025

Platform: https://camp-fire.jp/projects/view/851310

Use of Funds: Kitchen equipment, fixtures, food/supply purchases, and post-reopening operating costs

Format: All-in (the project proceeds even if the funding goal is not met)

[Message from the Owner]

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who supports this project.This is not just about reopening a shop — it’s a step toward preserving our family’s history and strengthening ties with the community.Your support will empower us to rebuild.We would be truly honored if you resonate with our mission and help us create a new future together.”

– Hinako Takahashi (Owner)– Yoshie Goto (Mother)

[Shop Information]

Name: Chuka Soba Masayoshi

Type: Ramen specialty shop

Reopening Location: Around Sumida Ward, Tokyo (new location under consideration)

Expected Reopening: Around August 2025

Operated by: Hinako Takahashi (Owner)

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/chukasoba.masayoshi/

TikTok ： https://www.tiktok.com/@masayoshi.ramen