What is Motsunabe?
Fukuoka's specialty "Motsunabe" is a hot pot dish made with plenty of beef or pork offal (motsu).
It features plump motsu, cabbage, garlic chives, and garlic in a rich soup,
creating a simple yet flavor-packed taste.
High in protein, low in calories, and rich in collagen,
it's considered good for beauty and health, making it especially popular among women.
History and Origins of Motsunabe
Born from Post-War Food Culture
The origins of motsunabe date back to post-war Fukuoka.
During a time of food shortages,
a dish utilizing inexpensive offal was created.
A Stamina Food for Workers
It became popular as a stamina food among coal miners,
and eventually became a popular hot pot dish nationwide.
Today, it's one of Fukuoka's representative gourmet dishes,
beloved by many tourists.
Types and Flavor Differences of Motsunabe
1. Soy Sauce Base (Traditional Flavor)
- The most popular style
- Based on Japanese dashi from bonito and kelp,
- creating a deep flavor with soy sauce's richness
- Simple and never tiresome
2. Miso Base (Rich and Savory)
- Uses sweet miso unique to Kyushu
- Creamy and mellow texture
- Enhances the umami of the motsu
3. Salt Base (Light Flavor)
- Light and healthy
- A soup with a strong garlic flavor
- The motsu fat melts into the soup, offering deep umami
4. Unique Variations (Spicy, Cheese, etc.)
Recently, spicy Korean-style motsunabe and
cheese-infused Western-style motsunabe have emerged,
adding to the variety!
Recommended Motsunabe Restaurants in Fukuoka
Yamanaka (Fukuoka City)
- A super popular spot famous for its miso base!
- The rich soup and sweet motsu are exquisite
Ooishi (Fukuoka City)
- Renowned for its soy sauce base!
- Light and allows you to enjoy the original umami of the motsu
Rakutenti (Fukuoka City)
- A hearty motsunabe filled with cabbage and garlic chives
- Loved by both locals and tourists
Motsu Kō (Fukuoka City)
- Features a light salt-based motsunabe
- Easy to eat with a gentle soup like mizutaki
The Perfect Finish to Motsunabe!
To fully enjoy motsunabe, the "finish" is crucial!
In Fukuoka's motsunabe restaurants, the following classic finishes are popular.
Champon Noodles (with a chewy texture that clings to the soup!)
Zosui (enjoy the rich umami of the motsu until the last drop)
Egg-topped Udon (adds creaminess and is delicious)
The soup is packed with umami,
so you can enjoy it without leaving a drop!
Useful Information for Travelers
1. Transportation Access
Shinkansen: From Tokyo, Osaka, Hiroshima to Hakata Station (approximately 1.5-5 hours)
Airplane: From Haneda, Narita, Kansai Airports to Fukuoka Airport (approximately 1.5 hours)
City Transportation: Subway, bus, and taxi are convenient
2. Fukuoka's Tourist Spots
Dazaifu Tenmangu (popular among students as the god of learning)
Fukuoka Tower (breathtaking night view! Recommended for dates)
Canal City Hakata (enjoy shopping and gourmet food)
3. Best Season to Eat Motsunabe
- Winter (November to February): Perfect for cold weather!
- Summer (July to August): Surprisingly popular to eat in air-conditioned restaurants!
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
- Motsunabe is Fukuoka's representative gourmet dish!
- Available in three flavors: soy sauce, miso, and salt, each with its unique deliciousness
- Reservations are essential at popular restaurants!
- The recommended finish is champon noodles, zosui, or udon!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is the best place to eat motsunabe?
A: Fukuoka City (Tenjin, Nakasu, Hakata areas) is recommended!
Many famous restaurants are available, making it enjoyable during sightseeing.
Q: Is motsunabe greasy?
A: It's surprisingly light!
Especially salt or soy sauce bases, where the sweetness of the motsu fat melts into the soup,
making it creamy and easy to eat.
Q: Can I eat motsunabe alone?
A: Yes! Some restaurants offer single-serving motsunabe sets!
However, most places typically require orders for two or more people,
so if eating alone, izakayas might be more convenient than motsunabe specialty shops.
Q: Is there a motsunabe souvenir?
A: Yes! Available for purchase online or at Hakata Station's souvenir corner!
"Yamanaka," "Rakutenti," and other popular restaurants offer motsunabe sets for sale.
If you visit Fukuoka, you must try "motsunabe"!
It's the ultimate stamina dish in cold winters, and even in hot summers.
Be sure to experience authentic motsunabe at least once!
