Beppu Jigoku-mushi

Beppu jigoku-mushi routes high-temperature hot-spring vapor into a jigoku pot to steam baskets of vegetables, roots, eggs, meat, seafood or rice. It names a geothermal cooking method, not...

Beppu Jigoku-mushi
Illustration showing the defining features of the food.

At a glance

NameBeppu Jigoku-mushi (Jigoku-mushi)
PrefectureOita
RegionKyushu & Okinawa
TypeFood steamed in dedicated pots by geothermal hot-spring vapor

What is it?

Beppu jigoku-mushi routes high-temperature hot-spring vapor into a jigoku pot to steam baskets of vegetables, roots, eggs, meat, seafood or rice.

It names a geothermal cooking method, not one fixed ingredient platter; cooking times still depend on each food.

History and local context

City cultural-landscape records show steam cooking in Edo-period sources and later self-catering by long-stay bathers.

Steam, lids, baskets and metal can cause severe burns. Follow staff and dedicated tools, and cook meat, seafood and eggs through.

How to enjoy it

Let the basket settle, verify doneness, then use a little salt, ponzu or dashi soy with the different ingredients.

Availability varies by maker, season, and destination.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Beppu Jigoku-mushi from?

It is associated with Oita, in the Kyushu & Okinawa region of Japan.

What kind of food is Beppu Jigoku-mushi?

This guide classifies it as food steamed in dedicated pots by geothermal hot-spring vapor. See the overview for its defining ingredients and texture.

Can I order Beppu Jigoku-mushi online?

Use the Rakuten Japan search link on this page. Confirm the maker, ingredients, storage requirements, and international shipping before ordering.

Order from Japan

Search Rakuten Japan using the original Japanese food name. Search results and product pages may be available only in Japanese.

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