How do I choose a rice cooker in Japan? Which brand and model should I buy?
If you'll use it in a 220V country, a 220V overseas model (海外向け) works as is; a 100V domestic model will burn out if plugged straight into 220V and needs a step-down transformer. As of October 2026, choose in three steps: capacity first (5.5 go for 3–5 people; 1 go ≈ 180ml of uncooked rice), then heating type (microcomputer < IH < pressure IH, rising in price and texture), and finally pick an overseas model from Zojirushi, Tiger, Panasonic or another brand within your budget.
Step 1: Check the voltage version
Look for “海外向け,” “海外仕様” or “220V” on the box and rating label. Overseas models usually have Chinese or English controls and SE-type round-pin plugs (you may need a plug adapter; see Do I need a plug adapter?). Domestic models marked “AC100V” are for 100V only; in 220V countries they need a coil-type step-down transformer with 100V output; see Japanese rice cookers with a transformer. For the differences, see Overseas vs. domestic models. Check whether a model works in your country in our compatibility table.
Step 2: Capacity
| Capacity | Good for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3 go | 1–2 people | Small and easy to carry |
| 5.5 go | 3–5 people | Most common; can be carried on board |
| 10 go (1 liter) | 5+ people | Heavy; checking it is recommended |
“Go” (合) is a Japanese unit for rice; 1 go is about 180ml of uncooked rice.
Step 3: Heating type
| Type | Japanese | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Microcomputer (bottom heating) | マイコン | Cheap and light; average texture |
| IH | IH | Induction heats the whole inner pot for more even cooking |
| Pressure IH | 圧力IH | Pressure raises the boiling point for softer, chewier rice; most expensive |
The inner pot material (multi-layer iron, clay-pot coating, charcoal and so on) also affects texture and weight. Each brand makes its own claims, and there's no single standard for which is best.
Main brands
- Zojirushi (象印マホービン): Many overseas models; well known among visitors.
- Tiger (タイガー魔法瓶): Known for its clay-pot inner pots; also has overseas models.
- Panasonic (パナソニック): Mature pressure IH technology; overseas models are sold at some stores.
- Toshiba (東芝), Hitachi, Mitsubishi Electric (三菱電機): Wide range of domestic models but few overseas models, so confirm the voltage before buying.
For specific models, specs and Japan prices, see the rice cooker category page, or use the buying guide tool to filter by budget.
Before you buy
- Is it sold in your country? Many overseas models are also sold outside Japan. If the price difference is small, buying locally gets you local warranty support. See Is it worth buying a rice cooker in Japan?.
- How to carry it: See Checking appliances as baggage.
- Warranty: See Warranties on Japanese appliances.
- Tax-free: You qualify when you spend 5,000 yen or more (before tax) at the same store on the same day. See The complete guide to the new tax-free rules.
Related categories and models
Related questions
- Do I pay duty on electronics and cosmetics bought in Japan? Duty-free allowances for the US, Canada, Australia, UK, Singapore, Taiwan and more
- Will Japanese appliances work in the US, Canada and Taiwan (110–127V) or the UK, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong (220–240V)?
- Can I use appliances bought in Japan in my country? What happens if I plug a 100V appliance into 220V?
- What's the difference between overseas and domestic models of Japanese appliances? Which should I buy to take home?
- Can I use a Japanese rice cooker abroad with a transformer? How do I choose one?