Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa
Experience 'hell steaming' with natural geothermal heat, cooking fresh ingredients for a healthy and unique meal.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed experience
Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience 'hell steaming' with natural geothermal heat, cooking fresh ingredients for a healthy and unique meal.
"A unique and fun dining experience where you cook your own food using Beppu's natural hot spring steam!"
🎯 Get Your Queue Number Early
Arrive before opening or during off-peak hours to secure a spot and avoid long waits.
🎟️ Vending Machine Ordering
Order and pay for your meal using the convenient vending machines.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Geothermal Steaming Experience
Cook your own fresh ingredients using natural hot spring steam for a healthy and fun meal.
Clams in Butter
Steaming Area
Delicate clams steamed with butter transform into a light, flavorful sauce.
Seasoned Rice Wrapped in Leaf
Steaming Area
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish, a must-try for a hearty meal.
Cheese Fondue
Steaming Area
A surprisingly delightful option, this cheese fondue is a unique twist on steamed cuisine.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Steam: Your Jigokumushi Kannawa Experience
Navigating the 'Hell Steaming' Process
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Get Your Queue Number Early
Arrive before opening or during off-peak hours to secure a spot and avoid long waits.
🎟️ Vending Machine Ordering
Order and pay for your meal using the convenient vending machines.
🧤 Protective Steaming Gear
Staff provide thick gloves for safe handling of hot food in the steamer.
🧂 Condiment Choices
Complimentary salt and ponzu are available; extra sauces cost extra.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Get Your Queue Number Early
Arrive before opening or during off-peak hours to secure a spot and avoid long waits.
🎟️ Vending Machine Ordering
Order and pay for your meal using the convenient vending machines.
🧤 Protective Steaming Gear
Staff provide thick gloves for safe handling of hot food in the steamer.
🧂 Condiment Choices
Complimentary salt and ponzu are available; extra sauces cost extra.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is conveniently located just behind the restaurant.
💳 Credit Card Accepted
Payment is accepted via credit card, making transactions easy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique and fun 'hell steaming' experience at Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa, praising the healthy and fresh ingredients cooked by natural geothermal steam. While some find the process a bit novel, most agree it's a must-do in Beppu for its interactive nature and delicious results. The convenience of free parking and credit card acceptance adds to the positive experience.
"Start by taking a queue number at the reception. Then line up to select your order from the machines. Make payment there. Wait till your number is called by the reception prior to handing your meal tickets to them. This will be followed by getting timers from them and collecting your food. Followed the number indicated to head to the steamer area. Staff will hand you protective gear to insert the food into the steamer. When the timer rings, head back to collect the food. Extra costs for different types of sauces. Yuzu pepper sauce tasted good. Free seating. Credit card allowed. Free parking"
Tracy Yang
"Interesting experience, DIY to cook your own meals with geothermal steam from beppu hotsprings.
Fresh and healthy steamed meal, clam in butter cooked in geothermal steam was noteworthy, together with steam the butter became a light butter sauce to go with other steamed items.
Other item raved was the seasoned rice wrapped in leaf.
The flat udon noodles with miso was good too, it completes a hearty meal with the family.
For those who need a stronger flavor kick, sprinkle a light amount of salt brings out the flavors more.
Parking just behind the restaurant."
Kingsley Tan
"Enjoyed this place where you can steam your own food with the geothermal steam from the hot spring. Just purchase the meal coupons (I ordered set 2 and 17) and a ¥40 steaming fee coupon from the vending machine and get a number from the reception. When your number is called, pass your meal coupons to the counter and they will prepare the ingredients for you. It’s free-seating so after securing your seat, you bring your tray of ingredients to the steaming area according to the number on the timer provided. There, the staff will guide you through the process of wearing thick gloves and steaming your food for about 15 mins. They provide salt and ponzu as complimentary condiments but if you prefer other condiments like sesame sauce, you’ll need to add additional ¥200 per sauce."
Angela Kwan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa from Beppu Station by taking a local bus. The journey is relatively short, and buses are frequent. Taxis are also available for a more direct route.
Yes, there is free parking available just behind the restaurant, making it convenient for those traveling by car.
Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa is located within the Kannawa district, which is one of the 'Hell' areas. It's walkable from some of the other Jigoku Meguri sites, especially if you're exploring the Kannawa area.
Exploring the Kannawa area is best done on foot, allowing you to discover its unique hot spring culture and steam vents. Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa is a central point within this district.
Yes, it's a popular tourist destination and is well-signposted within the Kannawa district. Local transport options make it easy to reach. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You order and pay for your food using vending machines located at the reception area. After payment, you'll receive a queue number.
There's a separate fee for the steaming process, typically around ¥400 per person, in addition to the cost of your chosen meal.
Advance booking is generally not required. You take a queue number upon arrival, and it's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays.
Operating hours can vary, but it's typically open for lunch and dinner. It's advisable to check their official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, credit cards are accepted for payment, which is convenient for international visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The specialty is 'jigokumushi,' where fresh ingredients like meat, seafood, and vegetables are steamed using natural geothermal heat. They also offer set meals and unique items like cheese fondue.
Popular choices include clams in butter, seasoned rice wrapped in leaves, and the cheese fondue. Many visitors also rave about the fresh, healthy steamed vegetables and meats.
Yes, the steaming method is considered very healthy as it uses natural steam and minimal added fat, preserving the nutrients of the ingredients.
While the focus is on meat and seafood, there are plenty of fresh vegetables that can be steamed, making it possible to create a vegetarian meal.
No, you must purchase your food from the restaurant's vending machines to be steamed.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique steaming process, the vibrant ingredients before cooking, and the steam rising from the vents. The overall atmosphere of the Kannawa district is also very photogenic.
It's generally polite to be mindful of other diners. Focus on your own experience and the food you're preparing.
Daytime offers good natural light for capturing the details of the food and the steaming process. Evenings can offer a more atmospheric shot with the steam.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned, but always be respectful of the environment and other patrons.
Yes, many creators have shared their experiences on TikTok and Instagram, so feel free to capture your unique dining adventure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Arrive early to avoid long waits, as children can get restless. Choose a variety of ingredients that appeal to different tastes. The communal seating can be a great way for families to bond over the meal. Consider bringing some entertainment for younger children while waiting for your turn.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers: Stick to the set meals or individual vegetable options for the most economical choices. The complimentary salt and ponzu are sufficient for seasoning, saving you money on extra sauces. Consider it a complete experience that combines dining and an activity, offering great bang for your buck.
💑 Couples
Tips for couples: Opt for a variety of ingredients to share and discover new flavors together. The relaxed atmosphere allows for conversation and enjoyment of the unique culinary journey. It's a departure from typical restaurant dining, offering a more engaging and personal experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Jigokumushi: Cooking with Hell's Steam
The experience is interactive and engaging. Visitors select their desired ingredients, which are then brought to their table in a raw state. Armed with protective gloves, they carefully place their food into the communal steamers. A timer is provided, and once it rings, the perfectly steamed meal is ready to be enjoyed. This hands-on approach makes dining at Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa a memorable and fun activity for all ages.
Beyond the novelty, the taste of jigokumushi is exceptional. The gentle steaming process results in tender meats, succulent seafood, and crisp vegetables, all infused with a subtle, natural sweetness. Condiments like salt and ponzu are provided to enhance the flavors, allowing each diner to customize their meal. It’s a testament to how simple, natural methods can produce incredibly delicious and healthy cuisine.
Exploring the Kannawa Onsen District
Walking through Kannawa, you'll encounter the distinct smell of sulfur and see steam rising from various points, creating an otherworldly landscape. It's a place where traditional Japanese onsen culture is deeply ingrained. Many visitors combine a meal at Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa with a tour of the nearby 'Hells,' experiencing the full spectrum of Beppu's geothermal wonders.
Beyond the 'Hells,' Kannawa offers a glimpse into local life, with traditional ryokans, small shops, and public bathhouses. The area encourages exploration, allowing you to discover hidden gems and soak in the unique ambiance of this hot spring paradise. It’s an essential part of the Beppu experience, offering both natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit