Ramen shops: buy your ticket first, then take a seat

Many ramen counters use a vending machine by the door: pick your bowl and toppings, pay, and hand the ticket to the staff. No tipping anywhere in Japan, and slurping is fine. If you see a line outside a tiny place at lunchtime, it's usually worth joining; most counters turn over in 20 minutes. Note the closing time on the door too: popular shops close once the day's broth is gone.