Recommend a good and reasonable place for shabu shabu or sukiyaki in Ueno & Asakusa?

Conclusion

For a great-value Japanese hot pot experience, go at lunch. Try Hachinoki for shabu-shabu or Yansando for yakiniku—they offer amazing quality for under ¥2,000.

General Information

Shabu-shabu and sukiyaki are popular Japanese hot pot dishes.

• Shabu-shabu: Thin slices of meat (usually beef or pork) are swished in boiling broth and dipped in sauces.
• Sukiyaki: Meat and vegetables are simmered in a sweet soy-based sauce and often dipped in raw egg before eating.

These dishes can be pricey at dinner—but in Japan, lunch meals are often heavily discounted, even at high-end restaurants.

Best Options Based on Your Style

• Looking for casual but authentic shabu-shabu?
  　→ Go to Hachinoki in Ueno. It's cozy, local, and known for high quality at low prices.
• Want grilled meat instead (yakiniku)?
  　→ Try Yansando, also in Ueno. They serve premium meat with an excellent lunch deal.
• Want sukiyaki?
  　→ Many shabu-shabu places also offer sukiyaki. Check Hachinoki’s menu or nearby lunch spots around Asakusa like Asakusa Imahan (a bit pricier, but famous).

When to Go

• Lunch Time (11:30 AM – 2:00 PM): Best value. Most shops offer generous sets at nearly half the dinner price.
• Dinner: Quality is still great, but expect to pay 2–3x more.

Budget Comparison (per person)

• Hachinoki (Ueno)
  　→ Shabu-shabu lunch set: ~¥1,500–¥1,800 ($10–$12)
• Yansando (Ueno)
  　→ Yakiniku lunch set: ~¥1,000–¥1,600 ($7–$11)
• Asakusa Imahan (Asakusa)
  　→ Sukiyaki lunch: ~¥3,000 ($20), Dinner: ¥5,000+ ($35+)

Tourist Reviews

• “I can’t believe I had such high-quality shabu-shabu for only ¥1,500!”
• “Yansando’s meat was so tender, and the lunch set came with rice, soup, and dessert.”
• “Lunch in Japan is such a smart way to enjoy luxury food without spending too much.”

Hidden Tips & Notes

• Lunch sets often include extras like salad, rice, miso soup, and even dessert.
• No English menu? Use Google Translate or point at the lunch menu photos—staff are usually helpful.
• Busy during lunchtime → Arrive early or go after 1:00 PM for a shorter wait.

Extra Travel Tips

• Cash or card? These shops usually accept cash; check for card availability if needed.
• Dining solo? No problem. Many places in Japan are solo-friendly, especially at lunch.
• Not sure what to pick? Go for pork shabu-shabu—it’s lighter and often cheaper.