Jigoku Mushi

Hi everyone,

Anyone who has been keeping up with Japan's recent news will know about the abnormally high snowfalls we've experienced this year. Even southernly Oita, while safe from the burden of heavy snowfall, feels the long arm of chilly winter days creeps into our homes, bodies, and daily lives. Luckily, we have Jigoku Mushi, another
winter-beating tip to add to the list.

Jigoku Mushi is a method of cooking ubiquitous to Oita, thanks to the abundance of geothermal activity going on just below the surface. In Jigoku Mushi, you first select from a variety of fresh foods: crab, shrimp, and other
seafood, cuts of chicken, sausages, and dozens of types of Oita's freshly harvested vegetables. Place them in a
steamer and lower them into a cooker that is directly connected to one of the many natural vents releasing
superheated steam from Oita's onsen hot springs. In a few minutes, your meal will be cooked, completely
naturally, using mineral-infused steam that introduces a subtle flavor to your food. Add a little seasoning to your
preference, and prepare to enjoy one of the most delicious and ecologically friendly meals you've ever
experienced, courtesy of Mother Nature.

You'll find Jigoku Mushi in stand-alone restaurants around Oita or at onsen hot springs facilities, where you can
begin or end a relaxing day in the baths with a warm and delicious meal. One of our favorite ingredients of
Jigoku Mushi is a meaty chicken thigh and drumstick, plump and juicy and perfect with a dash of salt, and a
Japanese sweet potato that always turns out perfectly moist and incredibly flavorful when cooked Jigoku Mushi
style.

We hope that you'll try this Oita specialty the next time you visit. Until then, stay safe, and we look forward to
welcoming you to Oita when travel is possible again