Ponyo
The Studio Ghibli film about Ponyo, a little fish-girl, devotes a whole scene to a steaming bowl of ham ramen — food you simply can't look away from.
Hayao Miyazaki's Ponyo is a fairy tale about a fish who dreams of becoming human, and one of the film's warmest scenes is a simple bowl of ham ramen prepared for the children by the boy Sosuke together with Ponyo during a storm. The scene became iconic precisely because of its simplicity: an ordinary quick ramen, cooked by candlelight, turns into a moment of real comfort and care amid a raging storm. This is characteristic of Miyazaki's style overall — showing magic through the most ordinary domestic moments. Here are recipes in the spirit of the film — simple and warm, just like that bowl of ramen.
Frequently asked questions
Why did the ramen scene in Ponyo resonate with so many viewers?
A simple instant ramen, cooked by candlelight during a storm, became a symbol of comfort and care — the contrast between the raging weather outside and the warmth inside the house creates a special emotional beat.
What kind of ramen is made in the film?
The scene features simple instant ramen with slices of ham added — not an elaborate restaurant dish, but accessible, homely food.
Can I recreate this scene at home?
Yes — you just need instant ramen or homemade noodle broth, a bit of ham, and an egg if you like — a simple dish that comes together in 10-15 minutes.