Best Rice Cookers Made in Japan (2024 Review)


Hey there, rice lovers! As an expert product reviewer, I have tried and tested many rice cookers, but there’s something special about the ones made in Japan. They’re known for their precise engineering, cutting-edge technology, and high-quality materials.

Japanese rice cookers not only cook rice to perfection but also offer various features to make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable. 

Best Rice Cookers Made in Japan: My Top Recommendations

If you’re a fan of made-in-Japan products and want to take your rice cooking game to the next level, you’re in the right place. In this article, I’ll be sharing the best rice cookers made in Japan that you should definitely consider for your kitchen.


1. Zojirushi NP-HCC10XH Rice Cooker (Made in Japan)

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I recently tried the Zojirushi NP-HCC10XH Induction Rice Cooker and it blew me away with its exceptional performance. With a generous 5.5-cup capacity (uncooked) and an intuitive design, it was a pleasure to use and easy to clean. 

The nonstick inner pot was the heaviest of any I’ve tested, and the markings inside that indicated how much water to add for various types of rice were clearly visible. But what really stood out was the induction heating technology that provided a precise, even heat source that warmed the whole pot, resulting in perfectly fluffy, evenly cooked rice every time.


The Zojirushi NP-HCC10XH also features an automatic Keep Warm setting, which kept rice at serving temperature for hours, and a Micom rice cooker (a.k.a. micro-computerized) technology that adjusts cooking times and temperatures to compensate for imprecise water or grain measurements. It was also the only rice cooker that counted down cooking time from start to finish, making it easy to know when your rice would be ready.

While the Zojirushi NP-HCC10XH rice cooker is more expensive than most others on the market, its induction heating capability, large capacity, and programmable features make it worth the investment. It’s great for those who want to make foolproof, delicious rice with almost no effort.

However, it’s important to note that the cook times are longer than traditional methods, which might take some getting used to. Depending on the volume and type of rice, white rice can take up to an hour, while brown rice can require up to two hours. This may be a drawback for those who are accustomed to quicker cook times, but the resulting quality is worth the wait.

Additionally, the price of this rice cooker is on the higher side, but it’s a reflection of the advanced technology and features it offers. Overall, I highly recommend the Zojirushi NP-HCC10XH Induction Rice Cooker for anyone who wants perfectly cooked rice every time.

2. Panasonic SR-HZ106 IH Electronic Rice Cooker (Made in Japan)

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Have you heard about Panasonic’s amazing multicookers? One of their top products is the Panasonic SR-HZ106 Induction Heating Electronic Rice Cooker. Let’s check out what this rice cooker has to offer and why people can’t stop raving about it.

The Panasonic SR-HZ106 Induction Heating Electronic Rice Cooker is a top-notch product that can cook different types of food, not just rice. It has a 10-cup rice capacity, which means you can cook for a lot of people in one go. Plus, it has 13 different cook settings that will make meal prep a breeze.

This rice cooker is made of high-quality materials, including an ultra-durable non-stick diamond-coated inner pot that ensures even cooking and helps protect your rice. The large 5-cup uncooked rice capacity is perfect for families with bigger appetites, and you can save time and energy with its delay timer and keep warm function.

But the best part is that this multicooker doesn’t just cook rice. It has a variety of cooking functions that allow you to prepare full meals in half the time. You can cook dishes like porridge, quinoa, curry, and many more, making it a versatile and flexible kitchen appliance.

The Panasonic SR-HZ106 Induction Heating Electronic Rice Cooker has many impressive features, such as industry-leading induction heating and the durable 7-layer inner pan with diamond coating. It also has a keep warm function that automatically activates when the cooking is complete, keeping the food at an ideal serving temperature for up to 12 hours.

The package also includes a ladle, a non-scratching rice spoon for authentic Asian-style service, and a special measuring cup for portioning the desired amount.

Overall, this rice cooker is an amazing investment that will make your meal prep more manageable and hassle-free. With its high-quality materials, large-capacity cooking, and multiple cooking functions, it’s no wonder why people are raving about it!

3. Tiger JNP-S10U-HU Rice Cooker (Made in Japan)

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Have you ever heard of Tiger rice cookers? If you love perfectly cooked rice, then you probably have. One of their most popular series is the JNP, which promises quality, simplicity, and durability with their Made in Japan products. I recently tried out the Tiger JNP-S10U-HU rice cooker and was blown away by its cooking results.

Let’s talk about the design first. The JNP-S10U-HU has a sleek and stylish look with its plastic and stainless-steel body. It’s not only durable but also safe to use thanks to the cool-to-touch plastic housing and lid handle. Plus, it doesn’t take up too much space on your kitchen counter, so you won’t have to worry about sacrificing too much space. You can even choose from three different colors to match your kitchen decor.

Now, onto the features and functions. Of course, the main function of any rice cooker is to cook rice, and the Tiger JNP-S10U-HU does that perfectly. But it also has a Keep Warm function that can keep your rice fresh and warm for up to 12 hours after cooking, without you having to do anything. And if you’re in the mood for steamed vegetables, seafood, or poultry, this rice cooker can handle that too. You’ll just need to buy a separate steaming tray.

The best part is how easy it is to use. The minimal control system consists of just a single switch for cooking or keeping warm, making it perfect for anyone to use. Even teenagers won’t have any trouble. And with features like a lid lock, automatic switch to keep warm, and a non-stick cooking pot, you can fill it up and forget about it until it’s ready.

Cleaning up after dinner is always a drag, but the Tiger JNP-S10U-HU is easy to clean. The cooking pot is non-stick and has a wide-mouth design, while the moisture collector is removable for easy cleanup. None of the components are dishwasher-safe, but they only take a few minutes to wipe clean with water.

Overall, the Tiger JNP-S10U-HU rice cooker is a great investment for anyone who wants perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort. It may not have all the bells and whistles of a smart rice cooker, but it consistently delivers delicious results. So, if you’re in the market for a reliable rice cooker, this one is definitely worth considering.

Made in Japan Rice Cookers: Things to Consider Before Choosing One

Here are some things to consider before investing in a rice cooker made in Japan.

1. Size

Japanese-made rice cookers come in various sizes, from single servings to large-capacity models that can feed an entire family.

If you’re single or living in a small apartment, a compact rice cooker may be sufficient for your needs. However, if you have a large family or entertain guests frequently, a larger model would be a better option.

2. Type of rice

Consider the type of rice you will be cooking. Different rice cookers are designed to handle specific types of rice.

For example, some models are optimized for cooking short-grain rice, while others work better with long-grain or brown rice. If you plan on cooking a variety of rice types, look for a rice cooker with multiple settings to accommodate your needs.

3. Material

Another important factor to consider is the material of the inner cooking pot. Japanese-made rice cookers typically come with non-stick, ceramic, or stainless steel inner pots. Each material has its pros and cons.

Non-stick pots are easy to clean but can be prone to scratching, while ceramic pots are durable but may require soaking to remove stuck-on food. Stainless steel pots are the most durable but can be difficult to clean. Consider your preferences and cooking habits when choosing the material of the inner pot.

4. Extras

Also, think about the additional features that you may need. Do you want a rice cooker with a timer or a delay start option? Do you need a warming function to keep your rice hot until you’re ready to serve it?

Some models come with extra features such as steaming baskets or the ability to cook other grains and foods like porridge or soup. Assess your needs and choose a rice cooker that offers the features you require.

5. Your budget

Finally, think about your budget. Japanese-made rice cookers come at different price points. While some models can be expensive, they also tend to offer more features and better quality. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and look for a rice cooker that fits your budget while also meeting your needs.

In all, when choosing a rice cooker made in Japan, consider the size, type of rice, material of the inner pot, additional features, and budget. With these factors in mind, you’ll be able to find a rice cooker that meets your needs and provides you with delicious, perfectly cooked rice every time.

Wrap-up

In conclusion, if you’re a fan of made-in-Japan products and want to elevate your cooking game, investing in a high-quality rice cooker made in Japan is a no-brainer.

With superior technology, attention to detail, and unmatched durability, these rice cookers offer the perfect balance of functionality and style. Trust me, once you try cooking rice in one of these machines, you’ll never go back to your old ways.