2025.04.09

Sukiyaki vs Shabu-Shabu: What Is the Difference?

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Sukiyaki and shabu-shabu, two kinds of Japanese hotpot, similar yet different!

CONTENTS

Outside of sushi and ramen, sukiyaki and shabu-shabu are among the best-known Japanese dishes. Both are rooted in hotpot cuisine, tend to use thin slices of marbled Japanese beef, and are perfect for cold weather. But the similarities end there!

Different Histories

Sukiyaki and the Introduction of Meat Culture in Japan

Sukiyaki (鋤焼き) dates back to the Meiji era (1868-1912). “Suki” refers to a kind of shovel once used to grill food, and “yaki” means grilled. As Japan opened up to foreign influences around the turn of the century, eating beef became more accepted, and sukiyaki, which involves stewing meat in a shallow pan, became popular.

Shabu-Shabu, a Postwar Discovery

Shabu-shabu (しゃぶしゃぶ) is actually a more recent invention – inspired by a Chinese mutton hotpot, it was brought to Japan from Beijing by Shoya Yoshida after WWII. A Kyoto chef later adapted the recipe using beef and local flavors, and in 1952, a restaurant in nearby Osaka coined the name “shabu-shabu,” an onomatopoeia for the swishing motion of dipping meat in broth. Though beef is most common, pork is also a popular main ingredient.

Meat Slicing

Although the meat itself is usually the same, sukiyaki meat is sliced slightly thicker (1.8~2.5 mm) to stew longer, while shabu-shabu slices are thinner (1.5~2.0 mm) to cook quickly in broth.

Differences in Ingredients and Flavor

Sukiyaki usually includes tofu, Chinese cabbage, green onions, mushrooms (shiitake/enoki), and noodles (udon or shirataki). Everything simmers in a thick mixture of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. The cooked meat is generally dipped in raw egg before eating.

For shabu-shabu the meat is swished in steaming kombu-based dashi to cook, then dipped in either ponzu or sesame sauce. The meat is often accompanied by vegetables like onions, carrots, cabbage, mushrooms, tofu, and usually served with rice.

Seasonal Traditions & Serving Methods

Specialty restaurants serve both varieties of hotpot year-round, but traditionally sukiyaki is more closely associated with winter. Even at restaurants, both dishes are often cooked at the table on a small stove. Unlike many other hotpots, ingredients are added and cooked while eating, making the meal interactive and fun.

Once the sauce (sukiyaki) or broth (shabu-shabu) comes to a boil, vegetables are added first, followed by the meat. At the end, noodles (sukiyaki) or rice (shabu-shabu) can be added to the pot to finish the meal.

Both forms of Japanese hotpot are delicious and comforting meals, especially on chilly nights. So unless you’re visiting during peak summer, we recommend trying both during your trip to Japan!

Japan Web Magazine

Japan Web Magazine is an online media platform delivering expert insights into travel, food, culture, and local experiences in Japan. We share insider tips, hidden gems, and must-visit spots to help you explore Japan like a local. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned traveler, we’ve got you covered!

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- FUKUOKA
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  Fukuoka Prefecture has the highest population on the southern island of Kyushu, with two major cities: Fukuoka and Kitakyushu. Thanks to growing transportation networks, Fukuoka is more accessible than ever, and so are the many local attractions. On top of historical spots like Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, travelers shouldn't miss Fukuoka's food scene, with motsu nabe (offal hotpot), mentaiko (spicy cod roe), and famous Hakata ramen―best eaten from a food stall in the Nakasu area of Hakata. Plus, it's full of all sorts of destinations for travelers, like trendy shopping centers, and the beautiful nature of Itoshima and Yanagawa.
- KAGOSHIMA
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  Kagoshima Prefecture played a major role in Japan's modernization as a backdrop for famous historical figures like samurais Saigo Takamori and Okubo Toshimichi, who pushed Japan out of the Edo era and into the Meiji. Because of that, Sengan-en Garden is just one of many historical destinations, and when it comes to attractions Kagoshima has plenty: the active volcano of Sakurajima, popular hot springs Ibusuki Onsen and Kirishima Onsen, World Heritage Site Yakushima Island, even what Japan calls the "island closest to heaven," Amami Oshima. Kagoshima might be found on the very southernmost tip of the southern island of Kyushu, but there's plenty to see.
- OKINAWA
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  The island chain of Okinawa (沖縄) makes up the southernmost tip of Japan, which is why it's also the most tropical area in the country. Thanks to a history of independence and totally distinct political and cultural events, Okinawa has a unique culture, and remnants of the Ryukyu Kingdom are still visible all over the islands. Food, language, traditional dress, it's all a little different! It's also said to be the birthplace of karate.