Experience the unique Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa when visiting Beppu. This hell steaming cuisine is a simple yet fantastic local dish and a must-try in Beppu.
When visiting Beppu, for sure you will amaze by its numerous hot spring water and steam jetting out across the city. But do you know, locals have been harnessing the naturally hot steam and come out with a very special local cuisine since the Edo period. The hell steam cuisine (Jigoku mushi, 地獄蒸し) is developed by using the abundance of hot steam and water. It is a very simple yet healthy cooking method that brings out the true flavors of the food. Most importantly, you have the chance to experience and cook the hell steam cuisine on your own. A unique experience and must-try food in Beppu.
Read on our fun dining experience in Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa for the hell steaming cuisine.
Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa
Jigoku Mushi Kobo (地獄蒸し工房鉄輪)
The Jigoku Mushi Kobo (地獄蒸し工房鉄輪, Jigokumushi Kōbō Kannawa) is a famous restaurant in Beppu. This self-service restaurant is not your usual place where you order your food and have them cooked and served to you. It features an interesting hands-on workshop where you have the opportunity to steam your meal in the searing hot spring steam.
Many visitors will come here to experience the hot spring steam cuisine when visiting Beppu. Understand the wait time can be long during peak hours, we decided to stop by Jigoku Mushi Kobo after visiting the five Kannawa Hell valleys. It was about 3 p.m for late lunch. But we were so glad fewer people were waiting in line.
Inside Jigoku Mushi Kobo
The restaurant has an indoor seating area with tables where you can eat your food. The hot steam setup is attached beside the seating area with stone or concrete cooking spots. Hot spring steam was kept piped from jigokugama (hell pots) directly to the cooking spots. Staffs were busy helping the visitors to steam their food in the steaming area.
Wide Range of Food Menu
Firstly, you need to order the food by selecting and paying for them at a vending machine. The ordering machine was allocated nearby the entrance with a picture menu and price listed.
A wide range of food with prepared plates can be ordered here. For example seafood, fish, beef, chicken, bun, vegetables, or even rice bowls. Prices range from as low as ¥200 up to ¥4,000. Alternatively, you can also opt to bring your food here and steam it. But as tourists, we choose to purchase the food at the restaurant.
How To Make Your Hot Spring Steam Food
Counter at Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa
We decided to get the fish and vegetable set which comes with such as shiitake mushroom, and pumpkins. You will also need to rent your steam chamber based on the usage time. We get the small steam set at ¥340 for 20 minutes.
After we got the food ticket from the machine, pass it to the counter behind. The staff will check through the order and proceed with food preparation.
There was also a brief instruction to guide you on how to enjoy your food in the store. Next, following the guide, we passed the food order slip to the counter beside and collect the food.
Food Preparation
The staff was busy preparing our order. Depending on what type of food ordered, the steaming time was slightly different. So they will place it in a different layer. The top one is the fastest and also will take out first. For fish, it needs about 10 minutes. While for the vegetable set, it took a long time 20 minutes. Think meat and rice may take a longer time.
Ready For Food Steaming
Together with the steam set and food is given, we head over to the number counter in the kitchen area and pass to the staff. One friendly staff guided us through the steaming process. She checked through our food and explained how to operate for food placement.
We were given a chance to put in and take out the food by ourselves into the steamer. The timer was set to remind us came back to take out the food when it was done.
Food Steaming Area in Jigoku Mushi Kobo
Following the guide, we put on the gloves and placed the food in the steaming pot. Once open the wooden lid, the force of steam jetted out was so strong. It was a fun experience when place the food to steam it.
Overall experience in the restaurant was easy and well organize follow the process flow.
Waiting For Food
Drinking Fountain
While waiting, we waited patiently in the dining area. Tea, cup, utensils, and condiments such as salt and soy sauce are provided. While the cooking center is staffed by volunteers, please help yourself to take it and clean up after finishing the food. Added, please take note alcohol is prohibited on the premises.
Outside, there was a drinking fountain where you can taste the natural mineral water. Too bad it was under maintenance during our visit. Free foot bath and steam foot bath are also available to spend your time while waiting for the food.
The Taste of Hot Spring Steam Food
Fish Set
Time flies while we explored around. As our food is ready at different times. My friend and I take turns operating the food-taking process so that both of us can experience it once.
Here comes our steamed food. The fish set came first as it took only 10 minutes. For the price of ¥2000, the portion can be rather small. The taste was average but we finish almost everything including the vegetables. You can dip it with the salt or soy sauce if you think it was too blank.
Vegetable Set
Next, the vegetable set which needs to steam for 20 minutes. Surprisingly, all the vegetable was truly fresh and natural. We all love the vegetable set and especially like the pumpkin. It was so sweet and tasty even without adding any seasoning. You won’t forget the unique original taste of food from hot steam. It can be quite filling to finish the vegetable set
After finishing your meal, don’t forget to clear your table and placed it in the washing area.
Overview: Must Try Food in Beppu
All in all, it was truly a very cool experience to have. I feel that the fish was not truly amazing. But both of us agree that vegetable was delicious. The hot steam cuisine from Jigoku Mushi Kobo was the best way to taste the freshness and original flavor of local Kyushu agricultural products without any special seasoning. We enjoy the fun experience and highly recommend it.
Getting To Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa
Jigoku Mushi Kobo, Kannawa
The Jigoku Mushi Kobo is located a few steps down the street from the Kannawa bus terminal. It can be accessed by frequently departing buses from JR Beppu Station in about 15 minutes. It is the best place for local unique dishes if you are looking for what to eat in Kannawa, Beppu.
Operating Hours: 9:00 to 21:00 (last start for cooking at 20:00) Closed: Third Wednesday of each month (or the next day if Wednesday is a holiday) Expected to Pay: Ranging from ¥2,000 to ¥4000 per person depending on what you order
Lastly, this Beppu food blog is part of the Kyushu travel post. We truly enjoy our Beppu trip and local food here. My Beppu itinerary and food tour are listed below:
Looking for best the Osaka hotel for your coming visit to the Kansai region with friends, family with kids, or even solo? This quick and easy guide to the best hotels and accommodations will help you decide where to stay in Osaka.
Osaka is big, the third-largest city in Japan, and one of Japan’s best holiday destinations when visiting the Kansai region. Whether you’re staying for 1 day, 2 days, or even a week in the Kansai region, you’ll never run out of things to do. But what most first-time visitors are surprised to find out is that Osaka is a massive city and extremely busy. You’ll save a lot of time and energy if you stay somewhere central and convenient. This is why you need to make sure you know exactly where to stay in Osaka, depending on what you’re in the mood to see and do.
So, ready to plan your trip and get ready for an exciting holiday? Here is our best pick on where to stay in Osaka.
Maybe not as bustling as Tokyo, Osaka is still a significant Japanese city that can sometimes get overwhelming. The city has a lot of cultural attractions, shopping options, and delicious traditional cuisine to offer. So choosing your right accommodation is important when planning your trip there.
For a quick overview, here is the top 5 best place to stay in Osaka to suit your interest and budget plan.
Where To Stay in Osaka:
Nearby Namba Station: Best place to stay in Osaka due to transport accessibility.
Dotonbori: Easily access all the great food and perfect for first-time travelers.
Nippombashi: Slightly cheaper compare with the busy area in Dotonbori and Namba area.
Shinsaibashi: Main shopping paradise in Osaka.
Umeda: Great option for those holding with JR Pass.
Pro Tips: Although Osaka is a huge city, most of the attractions are concentrated in a few places. For travelers visiting Osaka, it is important to stay somewhere convenient for getting around. You’ll save a lot of energy and time if you are staying somewhere in central and transport accessibility.
Stay in Namba Or Umeda?
Generally, there are two main neighborhoods to stay in Osaka. The Umeda at South (nearby Namba Station, Dotonbori, Nippombashi, Shinsaibashi) and Namba at North.
Umeda, Osaka’s commercial district and the largest transportation hub in the city. This area is extremely convenient and well connected with major transportation lines.
The two most important stations, Osaka Station and Umeda station are located in the Umeda district. The Shin-Osaka Station, where the Shinkansen bullet train stop is located, is just one station away from Umeda’s Osaka Station. It is the best place to stay for those with JR Pass. The modern city landscape is the best place to experience the lively city of Osaka.
Namba and its surrounding areas such as Dotonbori, Nippombashi, and Shinsaibashi. It is the best place for entertainment, shopping, and dining in Osaka. Most importantly, a direct train from Kansai airport to Namba station means that you do not require multiple transfers with heavy luggage in tow.
Additionally, it is also an important transportation hub with three mainline coverage. The JR Line, Nankai Line, and Kintetsu Line offer easy access to Kyoto, Nara, and other Kansai regions. A great place to shop, eat, and enjoy the nightlife.
Osaka Best Hotel Tips: When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in Osaka check prices for Osaka Best Hotel from Booking.com. We found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.
Namba at South
For me, I am more prefer to stay in the Namba area. The reason is very simple. Food and shopping option at its surrounded area is the main purpose of visiting this amazing city.
Namba is bustling day until night with food, shopping, and entertainment. It is the best place to experience Osaka’s vibe. So staying in Namba is also very ideal for those with limited time to visit Osaka. The Midosuji subway line connects Namba with various stop runs through the district. You can also easily access Kyoto, Nara, and also Uji, making it a great base to explore the Kansai region.
Below are our top hotel pick in Namba from luxury to budget range.
Nearby Namba Station
First of all, staying within the immediate surrounding of Namba Station is the best place to stay in Osaka due to transport accessibility.
However, don’t underestimate how big of Namba area is. It is a huge area with three busy stations; JR Namba station, Namba Subway Station, and Namba Nankai Station are situated. If you are coming from Kansai Airport, the Nankai Airport Limited Express Rapi:t train will take you to Namba Nankai Station in 40 minutes. While JR Namba station is connected with the JR train and Namba Station is an important subway line when getting around in Osaka.
Therefore, please make sure the hotel booked is to meet your desired walking distance range.
Osaka Best Hotels – Nearby Namba Station
Swissotel Nankai Osaka
Swissotel Nankai Osaka is one of the popular picks for travelers. The location is superb where it is located right above Nankai Railway’s Namba Station. So, it is very convenient for making airport train transfers to and from Kansai Airport, traveling between Osaka and also to Kyoto. Clean and good size room, professional staff, and most important strategic location make it one of the top pick when looking for where to stay in Osaka.
Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka is another unbeatable pick. It is directly connected to JR Namba Train Station and OCAT (Osaka City Air Terminal) located right next to the hotel within a minute’s walk. You can direct the airport shuttle bus to/from Kansai Airport easily. Additionally, the metro subway is in front of the hotel and the car rental outlet is within a few minutes’ walking distances. A great place to stay at a reasonable price.
Hiyori Hotel Namba Station is newly opened in mid of 2019. As expected everything is clean and brand new. The location is superb with only 2 to 3 minutes walking distance from Namba Station. The whole property is nonsmoking with coin laundry service.
Dotonbori
Next, the Dotonbori area is another best place to stay in Osaka. It is an iconic tourist spot for visitors when visiting Osaka and Kansai region. For sure you are not new to the running Glico Man sign (a symbol of the city), towering flashy 3D signboards, and the Dotonbori canal. It is the symbol of Osaka, featured with fabulous food and restaurant, entertainment, and nightlife along the busy Dotonburi street.
Staying in Dotonbori nearby means you can easily access all the great food.
Dotonbori is perfect for first-time travelers to Osaka seeking out a lively area in the city center. The only downside is it can be partying the whole night and slightly noisy during night time.
Osaka Best Hotels – Dotonbori
ibis Styles Osaka Namba
Ibis Styles Osaka Namba is right in Dotonburi and everything is at your doorstep. It is within walking distance to the areas of Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, and Shinsaibashi. The nearby Nankai Namba Train Station is an 11-minute walk away, while Kintetsu-Nippombashi Train Station is a 6-minute stroll. Added, You can easily get to the hotel from the airport, either by train or airport shuttle which is located just a block away. The free breakfast along with a reasonable price tag made it value for money.
Cross Hotel Osaka is located about 5 minutes walk from the Namba Station Midosuji Line. This 4-star hotel is always the top pick of travelers due to its fantastic location situated between Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi. That means all the restaurants and shopping arcades are within walking distance. Recommended by the Michelin Guide and room running fast, make sure to book earlier.
APA Hotel Namba-Eki Higashi
APA Hotel Namba-Eki Higashi is a standard Japanese chain business hotel in Japan. There are many APA hotels scattered around Osaka, but we recommended staying in this branch. Although the room is slightly small, APA Hotel is renowned for being simple, clean, and practical.
Your stay comes with a comfy bed, professional staff, and a strategic location. It is situated within an 8-minute walk from the Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade. While Namba Station for Nankai Line and Midosuji Subway Line is just a 4-minute walk from this hotel.
Nippombashi
The Nippombashi is located on the eastern edge of Dotonbori. Although Nippombashi is not as happening as the Dotonbori area but still within walking distance to find your way to enjoy the food and entertainment. For example, Namba station is about 10 to 15 minutes of walking distance.
Alternatively, you can get your way here by using the subway to Ebisucho and Nippombashi stations. The Nippombashi station also connected with Kintetsu rail to Kyoto.
Staying in Nippombashi is also close to the famous Kuromon Ichiban Market where you can easily walk there to enjoy the street food tour in Osaka. Most importantly, the hotel rate is slightly cheaper compare with the busy area in Dotonbori and Namba area.
Osaka Best Hotels – Nippombashi
Nipponbashi Crystal Hotel
Nipponbashi Crystal Hotel is about 6 minutes walk to Ebisucho Station and Dotonbori. So everything is still accessible including food, and transportation. It is a practical hotel with decent room size, cozy and clean with a comfy bed. Another great stay if you are looking for where to stay in Osaka.
Hotel WBF ARTSTAY Namba is an art concept hotel located about 10 to 15 minutes’ walk from Namba Station and Nippombashi Station. While the Kuromon market is about 10 minutes walk and Ebisucho Station is 5 minutes away. The room is slightly smaller but makes sense for its price tag in Osaka. Complimentary wine, sake, tea, and coffee in the evening are a plus for hotel guests, especially after the long day’s walk.
Shinsaibashi
Next, Shinsaibashi is situated in the western part of the Namba area. It is the main shopping paradise in Osaka and also the Kansai region.
Numerous international and Japanese stores are lined along with the Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade and Midosuji avenue. From luxury, and mid-range to affordable shops can be found here. Shop till you drop!
Osaka Best Hotels – Shinsaibashi
Hotel The Flag Shinsaibashi
Hotel The Flag Shinsaibashi is an immaculate and modern 3-star hotel in the Shinsaibashi. It is located within 2 minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station with lots of shops and restaurants nearby. Excellent location, great facilities, and a super clean room. You won’t regret staying here.
Hotel Nikko Osaka is directly connected to Shinsaibashi Subway Station. That means you can rest your tired foot after getting off the subway. It is the best choice for those who prefer staying nearby the subway station for easy getting around. The popular shopping street, Shinsaibashi is just a step away from the hotel. Spacious room and reasonable price tag.
Umeda at North
Always, people are looking to either stay in Namba or Umeda area. In my opinion, staying in Umeda is a great option for those holding with JR Pass. It is easy to get to Shinkansen and other JR lines. In other words, this area is easily accessible and get surrounded by cities like Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe from Umeda.
Additionally, there are lots of three to four-star chain hotels in this area. It is the best place to stay in Osaka if you are looking for convenience over the entertainment and food. Anyway, the Namba station is just a few minutes by train.
Osaka Best Hotels – Umeda
Hotel Monterey Le Frere Osaka
Hotel Monterey Le Frere Osaka is situated a step away from the restaurant, food, and transportation. No issue finding what to eat when staying here. Spacious room size compares with standard Japanese standard. Additionally, the airport limousine station is about a 7-minute walk on foot from the hotel. So it is a popular choice for travelers staying here for easy arrangements from and to the Kansai Airport.
Nest Hotel Osaka Umeda is a 3-star hotel situated nearby Umeda Station. It is a decent chain of business hotels in Japan. All rooms are cozy and modern. Very suited and practical for the traveler who looks for a comfortable stay. Reasonable price tag too! Don’t expect luxury and you’ll be set.
Hotel UNIZO Umeda
HOTEL UNIZO Osaka Umeda is perfectly located near with Umeda railway and subway station. Stay here for one or two days and explore the city and surrounding attractions easily. Additionally, the beautiful design makes it bigger than usual than the Japanese standard room. A popular pick for the best hotel in Umeda.
Where To Stay in Osaka On a Budget
For solo and budget travelers, there are various hostels scattered all around Osaka. Of course, the cheapest stay in Osaka can be slightly away from downtown and you still can be reachable by subway. However, I would recommend looking for a budget accommodation near the Namba area. You might be paying a slightly higher price tag. But save you a lot of time and energy.
In short, below are the few solo and budget stay in Osaka, and most of them are within walking distance from Namba Station.
Osaka Best Budget Hostels/Hotels
First Cabin Midosuji Namba
First Cabin Midosuji Namba offers a unique and upgrades version of the capsule experience. It features compact sleeping compartments with an airplane theme. So the capsule size is larger than the usual capsule. The location is also superb and directly connected to Namba Subway Station (Exit 13), Kintetsu, JR, and Nankai lines. The lively Dotonbori area is just a 5-minute walk away, especially for solo and budget travelers.
Khaosan World Namba is a famous hostel chain in Japan. Most of the hotels are in a reasonable price tag and are super convenient. So and strategically located nearby Namba Subway Station and Osaka City Air Terminal (OCAT) within about 3 minutes walking distance. Choose from the dormitory, double room, quadruple, or room up to 6 people.
Hostel Wasabi Osaka Bed and Library is surrounded by eateries and easy access by public transport. The location is hard to beat, as it’s right in the middle of downtown Minami, between Namba metro Station and Nipombashi station. So it is very convenient for getting around in Osaka and also other Kansai regions. It features with dormitory, and a small apartment for 2 double single, or double beds. So it is a great option for solo and budget travelers. Book early as the small apartment room is running extremely fast!
Tips For Your Best Stay in Osaka
Below are our final tips for Where To Stay in Osaka, the most lively city in the Kansai region:
The most popular area is Namba and Umeda. Both places are a great option when looking for where to stay in Osaka.
Stay nearby to Namba to enjoy and experience the true vibe of Osaka. Dotonbori, Nippombashi, and Shinsaibashi all are within walking distance.
Umeda is the best option for those with Japan Rail Pass, especially travelers who plan for traveling to Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara for a day trip.
Midosuji subway line connects the major station in Osaka including Namba, Umeda, and Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen bullet train station), and gets you almost everywhere in Osaka.
Direct access from Kansai International Airport to Namba Nankai Station via Nankai Airport Limited Express Rapid train (40 minutes).
Limousine bus also runs frequently from Kansai Airport to OCAT (50 minutes) with several stops in front of the hotel along the way.
Wide range of hotels (3-star, 4-star, and even 5-star) and budget hostels when looking for where to stay in Osaka.
Look for early booking rates if you can. Rooms running fast, especially those popular hotels.
FAQ: Where To Stay in Osaka
What is the best area to stay in Osaka?
There are two major downtown areas, which are Umeda in the North and Namba in the South. Both areas feature gigantic shopping districts, numerous restaurants, sightseeing spots, and also various accommodation options.
Where should I stay in Osaka with transport accessibility?
Stay nearby Namba Station, which is the best place to stay in Osaka with great transport accessibility. Swissotel Nankai Osaka is one of the popular picks for travelers.
Where should I stay in Osaka for food?
Dotonbori is the most lively area in Osaka and is easily accessible to all the great food. Alternatively, stay in Nippombashi which is close to the famous Kuromon Ichiban Market. Cross Hotel Osaka is always the top pick of travelers due to its fantastic location situated between Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi.
Where should I stay for the JR Pass holder?
The best place to stay in Osaka for JR Pass holders is the Umeda area. Nest Hotel Osaka Umeda is a 3-star hotel situated nearby Umeda Station.
Where should I stay for a budget traveler?
We recommend looking for a budget accommodation near the Namba area with great food and transport accessibility. Khaosan World Namba is the best budget hostel with a reasonable price tag and super convenience.
Overview: Where To Stay in Osaka
In conclusion, do you find the best hotel to stay in Osaka? Or still, wondering to stay in Namba or Umeda? Hopefully this quick and handy guide able to help you choose your best hotel stay in Osaka. If you have any questions, please free to drop us an email. We try our best to answer you. Most importantly, enjoy your trip!
Lastly, continue to read on Kansai travel blog to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Uji including itinerary, money savings tips, and food guide:
If you want to get a glimpse of wonderful chickens delicacy in Fukuoka, definitely worth checking out the best mizutaki from Hakata Hanamidori. A must try food when looking for what to eat in Fukuoka.
Mizutaki (みずだき, 水炊鶏) is a popular traditional local delicacy in Hakata, Fukuoka region. Origin in the Keiou period, this chicken soup hotpot dishes has elevated into a delicacy and spread to all over Japan from Hakata. The mizutaki is not as simple as just simmering chicken and soup. The nutritious chicken broth was prepared by using domestic farm fresh chicken and slowly boiling for long hours and effort. For sure, the broth is full of flavorful and delectable taste.
While Hakata Hanamidori (博多華味鳥) is one of the famous restaurant for best mizutaki in Fukuoka. It has its special recipe by preparing the flavorful broth that draws from the chicken, without adding any seasoning. A full course meal of authentic mizutaki is not cheap and can easily range from ¥3,000 to ¥10,000 per person. Considering this, we decided to try the lunch menu from Hakata Hanamidori. It is the best budget way to sample the best mizutaki in Fukuoka without breaking your bank.
Read on my food sharing blog for Hakata Hanamidori mizutaki during my Fukuoka trip.
Hakata Hanamidori Hakata Station Chikushi Gate
Hakata Hanamidori Hakata Station Chikushi Gate
The famous Hakata Hanamidori has a total of 11 branches in Fukuoka with three shops located nearby Hakata Station. Among them, Hakata Hanamidori Hakata Station Chikushi Gate (博多華味鳥 博多駅筑紫口店) served the valuable lunch menu. Extremely popular among office worker and easily get full during lunch hour.
Cozy Dining Environment in Hakata Hanamidori
From Hakata Station, it required about 5 minutes walk to get there. But it was easily found thanks to google maps. When we arrived in the store, we were greeted by friendly staff and lead us to the table seating. The dining environment inside was very cozy. There were also private room crater for a larger group. While it was still early, there were still plenty of seats inside the restaurant. It gets fully seated during we enjoy our meal.
Weekday Lunch Menu
Hakata Hanamidori Mizutaki Weekday Lunch Menu
Once seated, the waiter served us a cup of hot tea to warm up before the meal. We also got the present lunch menu which included their famous mizutaki hot pot and several other courses. Menu is available in Japanese, English, and Mandarin.
Weekday Lunch Menu in Hakata Hanamidori
Besides the mizutaki set, you can also opt for Namba chicken, karaage set, charcoal grill chicken or other set lunch with chicken. All sets come in a very reasonable price tag.
We had a glance on the Hanamidori’s course and decided to go for the Hakata lunch course at ¥1,580. The set menu will come together with popular mizutaki, three small bowl of appetizer, karaage, rice, and wide range side dishes.
Appetizer
Appetizer
Firstly, the course started with three assorted appetizers which beautifully served with seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, and cauliflower. Simple and fresh.
Hanamidori chicken sashimi and lightly roasted chicken ham
The next round of appetizers came up. The Hanamidori chicken sashimi and lightly roasted chicken ham. I was slightly excited as this was my first trial on chicken sashimi. The taste was not too bad. It was creamy with a soft texture on it. We like to enjoy it together with roasted chicken which had a scallop-like texture and flavor. The flavors together were fantastic.
Mizutaki Chicken Broth
Mizutaki from Hakata Hanamidori – Lunch Course
Next was about the most exciting moment of the meal. The servant brought out the mizutaki course in a bowl of chicken broth together with other side dishes.
Best Mizutaki from Hakata Hanamidori
Chicken, meatball, veggies, mushroom, smooth tofu and other fresh ingredient were being cooked in the small pot and aromas were starting to get quite incredible. All the dishes were well prepared and look so delicious.
Clear Chicken Broth from Hakata Hanamidori Mizutaki
We can’t wait for the first try of the best mizutaki in Fukuoka. To enjoy the mizutaki, firstly start with a sip of the soup before eating anything else. There was a little ceramic cup of soup to let us try out the most original and freshness of the chicken broth. The clear chicken soup was what to die for. It was flavorful, tasty but not greasy at all. This is the best soup with subtly sweet chicken flavor. Not too overpowering or salty. Alternatively, you can also opt by adding a bit of salt or green onion before scooping in more soup.
Perfectly Flavored Boned Chicken Thigh
Perfectly flavored boned chicken thighs
The next step is to eat the tender chicken that had been stewing in it. We have the perfectly flavored boned chicken thighs. It was incredibly tender, juicy and succulent. The best-tasting chicken I have ever tried. We love to dip it into ponzu sauce which adds such a refreshing kick to the chicken. A perfect match! But there were only a few pieces in the pot. Can I ask for more?
Fully Enjoy the Best Mizutaki And Finish Everything Inside the Pot
While the meatball and vegetables are also very nice. The vegetables were so fresh and perfectly balanced the meats. It was an enjoyable experience eating them with the chicken. Even with no rice or noodles, it was an enjoyable experience eating them with the chicken. But we feel it taste extremely wonderful with the ponzu sauce.
Besides, the broth tasted even more amazing at the end. We finished everything until the single last drop of the hot pot.
Karaage
The set also comes with some chicken tempura. The juicy marinated chicken was coated in an ultra-light batter crisp shell and deep-fried to crispy perfection. It was full of chicken’s natural flavor and very tasty.
We ended the satisfying meal in Hakata Hanamidori and walked out with a happy tummy. Given the quality and price, it was fantastic and value for money. I would come back if I was in Fukuoka again.
The Best Hakata Mizutaki
Overall, it was a delightful lunch in Hakata Hanamidori. The mizutaki broth was original and flavorful. It might not rich in ingredient, but the broth itself worth a try. If budget is not a concern, we recommended trying the full course meal at dinner. If you have the budget for it, a lunch course menu in Hakata Hanamidori is your choice. It also serve mizutaki for solo traveler.
The quality of ingredient, art like approach of dishes, a taste for flavorful soup will blow you away by the wonderful meal here. If you are visiting Fukuoka, please allocate some time to try the mizutaki to appreciate this traditional cuisine. Another must eat food in Fukuoka.
Hakata Hanamidori Hakata Station Chikushi Gate (博多華味鳥 博多駅筑紫口店) Address: 〒812-0013 福岡県福岡市博多区博多駅東1-13-31 駅東サンシティビル1F Operating Hours: Daily from 11:30 to 15:00 and 17:00 to 00:00 (Last Order 30 minutes before closing) Getting there: 4 minutes walk from JR Hakata Station Expected to Pay: Lunch from ¥1,000 and Dinner from ¥3,000
Lastly, this Hakata Hanamidori Mizutaki: Fukuoka Best Chicken Delicacy is part of my Fukuoka food guide. If you are interested, continue to read on my remaining Fukuoka food blog for all the best food and must eat in Fukuoka. Enjoy your food hunting in Kyushu.
Don’t hesitate to try the satisfying breakfast in Tanya Hakata if you are looking for what to eat in Fukuoka. It served the beef tongue meal and best value of money.
Tanya Hakata (たんや) is a beef tongue specialty restaurant in Fukuoka. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with their best value beef tongue meal. But their breakfast menu is the most popular order and ranked as the most favorite breakfast in Japan. Many locals and travelers love to stop by this tiny shop in Hakata Station for their beef tongue meal.
Read on my food review with a beef tongue meal in Tanya Hakata.
Getting There
Getting To Tanya Hakata
Located in the basement level of Hakata Station, Tanya Hakata lined in Hakata Ichiban Street. Getting to Tanya Hakata is plenty easy. Just follow the well-marked sight to Level B1 of Hakata Ichiban street in Hakata Station. There are many restaurants in Hakata Ichiban Street but Tanya Hakata is the most popular restaurant. So no worry to find the Tanya Hakata.
Tanya Hakata – Best Place For Breakfast in Fukuoka
We reached Hakata Tanya for breakfast at about 8:00 morning to catch the later train for sightseeing. We were lucky as there is no line in the early morning. Locals seem like having their quick breakfast a Hakata Tanya before working.
Table Seating in Tanya Hakata
Inside Tanya Hakata is an L-shaped dining area with limited space. While the left side is a bar counter with an open kitchen. There were also table seating at the left side if you come with a group of friends and family.
Breakfast Menu
Tanya Hakata Breakfast Menu
There are four different seal meal for breakfast in Hakata Tanya. The regular set meal served with starting price at about ¥500. You can also choose the set by adding some extra like Mentaiko, Okiuto (product made from seaweed), Tororo set (grated mountain yam) and Natto set (fermented soybean) with additional cost. Each set comes with your choice of egg (saw) and seaweed.
Beef Tongue Meal From Tanya Hakata
Regular Beef Tongue Set in Tanya Hakata
I ordered the regular beef tongue set which comes with 4 pieces of beef tongue, wheat rice, beef tongue soup, and some vegetable. Although the serving size of beef tongue was not many, it was really happy to enjoy such a delicious breakfast in the morning.
The rice in Tanya Hakata was cooked with oat wheat. A healthier breakfast in Fukuoka. Most importantly, rice in Tanya Hakata can be an unlimited refill. You can get a second serving of rice for free.
Tororo set From Tanya Hakata
While my friend got the Tororo set at additional charge. It was still very reasonable. By top up less than 100, your meal came with grated mountain yam, raw egg, and seaweed. What a bargain!
Beef Tongue From Tanya Hakata
Overall, the thin cut charcoal-grilled beef tongue from Tanya Hakata was not too bad. It was chewy, tender with slight of charcoal grill taste. It can be eaten alone, squeezed with lemon or dipping sauce.
Although the beef tongue tastes a little bit greasy by eating alone. By adding few drops of lemon, it tastes refreshing.
Dipped the Beef Tongue with Grated Mountain Yam
Besides, we love the taste when dipped it with the grated mountain yam. It taste slightly refreshing compare by eating the beef tongue alone. Next, pour the grated mountain yam and raw egg into rice. Adding a little soy sauce and then stir well. My friend finished the whole bowl of rice.
Besides the hot barley tea, there was also complimentary coffee by the counter with self-serve. Get a cup of coffee if you need to fix your caffeine in the morning. We ended our best breakfast in Fukuoka with a happy tummy. There was a long line by the time we left the restaurant.
Tanya Hakata Breakfast: Best Value Of Money
All in all, the beef tongue breakfast from Tanya Hakata is the best value of money. With about ¥600, you get a full healthy breakfast which is super cheap. It’s almost the same price to buy a sandwich and drink at a convenience store. A local breakfast in Fukuoka is much better than Starbucks and other chain cafes. Although it is not a high-grade beef tongue, it is undoubtedly the best budget food at a very affordable price. It is still recommended to try the beef tongue in Tanya Hakata at the morning.
Sometimes, it can be a long queue with a long line in front of Tanya Hakata. So we advise going there for early breakfast in Tanya Hakata. In short, Tanya Hakata is the best place for local breakfast in Fukuoka. High recommended.
