Top 16+ Japanese steamer: Bamboo, electric & ceramic

Japanese steamer enthusiasts know that the right steaming tool can transform everyday meals into flavorful, restaurant-quality dishes. From traditional bamboo baskets to high-tech electric steamers and elegant ceramic inserts, Japan offers a variety of options for every kitchen style and cooking need.

Whether you want gentle steaming, multi-tier convenience, or artisanal presentation, these steamers will elevate your cooking game. Discover which models suit your lifestyle and bring the art of Japanese steaming into your home. Read on at Kiichin to find your perfect Japanese steamer today.

1. Best bamboo Japanese steamer basket (Take-mushi)

Here we focus on the classic material, bamboo (and sometimes hinoki/wood) – ideal for those who appreciate tradition and a tactile kitchen experience.

1. Yamaco Steamer Messtin 2 Tier Natural
2. Ebm Cedar bamboo Steamer 
3. Premium Ebematsu Japan Pinewood Steamer 
4. Muji Bamboo Steaming Basket Small Deep
5. Miyabi Bamboo Steamer 2-Tier

1.1 Yamaco Steamer Messtin 2 Tier Natural

Here we focus on the classic material, bamboo (and sometimes hinoki/wood) – ideal for those who appreciate tradition and a tactile kitchen experience. Bamboo steamers have long been an essential part of Japanese cookware, valued for their gentle steam circulation and the subtle natural aroma they bring to vegetables, fish, and dumplings.

I found that the bamboo plates heat evenly and I appreciated the aroma they impart while steaming vegetables and fish. The two tiers meant I could steam mains and sides simultaneously, saving time. Clean‑up was straightforward though I emphasised drying the bamboo properly afterwards. It may cost more than a basic basket, but the material quality and experience feel worth it.

• Brand: Mk Seiko 
• Material: Bamboo tiers + wood lid 
• Ideal for: Households wanting traditional material with modern convenience 
• Price range: $90 – $140

1.2 Ebm Cedar bamboo Steamer 

This more affordable 10‑inch three‑piece set is a great entry point into bamboo steaming. The stackable tiers and lid make it practical, and the simplicity is part of its appeal. If you’re new to the concept of a Japanese‑style steamer basket, this offers strong value.

The setup was easy, the steam distribution good for dumplings and vegetables, and I liked the natural look. Because it’s less expensive, some finishing is not as refined as premium units, but for everyday use it delivers. Just ensure you line the bottom tier (with parchment or cabbage leaves) to avoid sticking.

• Brand: Asian Origins 
• Material: Bamboo 
• Ideal for: Budget‑minded cooks, small households 
• Price range: $25 – $45

1.3 Premium Ebematsu Japan Pinewood Steamer 

Though technically silicone rather than classic bamboo, this pot gives a modern twist on the steamer basket concept – particularly useful for those who want convenience. While not strictly “Japanese steamer basket” material, it fits into the broader category of “Japanese steam cooker” (secondary keyword) by offering efficient steaming in a sleek design.

What stood out was the flexibility (collapsibility or ease of storage) and the fast steaming time in my tests. It lacks the wood aroma and traditional aesthetic, but if your priority is speed and practicality (especially in smaller kitchens), it’s a solid pick. I recommend this for busy households or multi‑use kitchen setups.

• Brand: Generic silicone steamer 
• Material: Heat‑resistant silicone 
• Ideal for: Compact kitchens, fast steaming 
• Price range: $40 – $70

1.4 Muji Bamboo Steaming Basket Small Deep

Moving towards ceramic materials, this steam pot offers a different look and feel: heavy, refined, and perfect for those who care about presentation and durability. Although not a classic bamboo steamer basket, it fulfils the role of a “Japanese steam cooker” with elevated materials.
Using this pot, I found steaming slower but results had excellent texture and heat retention. Vegetables retain colour and cut beautifully. For special occasions or for those who love ceramic cookware, this is a lovely upgrade. The trade‑off is size/weight and potentially slower heating.

• Brand: Premium Porcelain 
• Material: Ceramic/porcelain 
• Ideal for: Design‑conscious kitchens, formal presentations 
• Price range: $55 – $85

1.5 Miyabi Bamboo Steamer 2-Tier

Bringing electric steaming into the mix, this Japanese brand (Iris Ohyama) appliance delivers convenience and consistency. While we continue to focus on baskets and simpler steamers, including an electric option helps cover the full spectrum: from traditional bamboo to full‑electric designs.

It was easy to use: fill the water tank, set the timer, stack in your food and walk away. My results were consistent, and the digital features meant fewer guess-work moments. For everyday use, especially families, this is a strong contender. If you already enjoy the convenience and reliability of the best Japanese rice cooker, this electric bamboo steamer will feel just as intuitive in daily cooking.

• Brand: Iris Ohyama 
• Material: Electric unit with steaming trays 
• Ideal for: Families, multi‑tier steaming 
• Price range: $110 – $170

2. Top-rated silicon Hinoki steamer

In this section we shift focus to modern materials and electric options for those who need convenience, speed, and flexibility in their steaming routine.

1. Marna Silicone Steam Cooker
2. Muji Silicone Steamer Sheet

2.1 Marna Silicone Steam Cooker

This folding tray steamer insert is excellent for those who already have suitable cookware and just need a good insert to convert a pot into a steamer. It’s compact, adjustable and saves space.

Perfect for smaller kitchens or those who don’t want another full appliance. I used it in my regular stockpot, placed parchment underneath, stacked veggies and fish. It works well, though you lose some of the “Japanese steamer basket” aesthetic. For those looking to simplify, it’s smart.

• Brand: Generic 
• Material: Metal insert 
• Ideal for: Space‑saving kitchens, budget users 
• Price range: $15 – $30

2.2 Muji Silicone Steamer Sheet

Another variant of the Mk Seiko model, this electric bamboo steamer upgrades on the earlier version with improved heat control and a refined lid. It nicely bridges traditional material with electric convenience.

I found it excellent for mid‑week meals: set up the tiers, select the steaming time and walk away. The bamboo still gave a pleasant aroma and even steamed. It’s more expensive than simple baskets, but the blend of tradition + modern convenience stands out.

• Brand: Mk Seiko 
• Material: Bamboo + electric heating base 
• Ideal for: Those wanting tradition + tech 
• Price range: $18 – $35

3. Best stainless steel or sluminum Japanese steamers

Here we cover premium materials and full‑electric models for users who want high performance, durability and design.

1. Ebm 18-8 Angle stainless steel Steamer
2. Kai Dh6524 Wellness Steamer Stainless Steel
3. Ebm Aluminum Steamer

3.1 Ebm 18-8 Angle stainless steel Steamer

This steamer from EBM is made of 18‑8 stainless steel, which contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel and is commonly used in high-quality cookware. Its angled or stacked design allows efficient steam circulation across two or three tiers. In practice, it impressed with its solid build, very clean finish, and smooth steam flow. 

The high-grade stainless steel reduces concerns about rust and makes cleaning straightforward. However, because it is large and built for performance, it may be more than necessary for casual small-household steaming.

• Brand: EBM 
• Material: 18‑8 stainless steel 
• Ideal for: Serious cooks, larger households, frequent steaming 
• Price range: $120 – $220

3.2 Kai Dh6524 Wellness Steamer Stainless Steel

This steamer from KAI is labelled “Wellness Steamer Stainless Steel Free Size” and can expand or contract to fit pot sizes ranging from approximately 14 to 24 cm. It is compact, adaptable, and perfect for smaller kitchens or for users who already own a pot and only need a versatile steamer insert. In real-world use, it is convenient for everyday steaming as it fits easily in most pots and steams food evenly. The only limitation is its smaller capacity, which may be insufficient for larger batch cooking.

• Brand: KAI 
• Material: Stainless steel 
• Ideal for: Small to mid-size households, users seeking flexibility and simplicity 
• Price range: $30 – $60

3.3 Ebm Aluminum Steamer

This EBM product is made of aluminum, making it noticeably lighter than stainless steel steamers. The body and lid are sold separately and it comes in sizes such as 15 cm and 20 cm. The lighter construction makes it easier to handle, lift, and store. Aluminum heats quickly, which is ideal for steaming smaller quantities. On the other hand, aluminum may be more prone to scratches or oxidation, so it requires careful maintenance to retain its appearance over time.

• Brand: EBM
• Material: Aluminum 
• Ideal for: Lighter weight use, small steaming tasks, users who prefer ease of handling 
• Price range: Mid

4. Most popular electric Japanese steamers

For those who prefer convenience and precise temperature control, electric steamers offer a modern solution. They simplify the steaming process, maintain consistent heat, and often come with multiple tiers for cooking several dishes at once. 

Let’s take a closer look at the most popular electric Japanese steamers that make healthy cooking effortless.

1. Ebm 45cm 3-Tier Commercial Electromagnetic Square Steamer
2. Zojirushi Gourmet Electric Steamer
3. Tiger Electric Steamer & Cooker

4.1 Ebm 45cm 3-Tier Commercial Electromagnetic Square Steamer

This EBM steamer is a large 3-tier electric model, approximately 45 cm, designed for commercial use or households that steam frequently. It uses an electromagnetic heating system, which ensures even steam distribution throughout the trays. 

In practice, I was impressed with the ability to cook multiple foods at once, such as vegetables, fish, and dumplings, with fast heat-up and consistent steam. Its size and high power make it ideal for heavy use, though it may be more than necessary for smaller households or casual cooking.

• Brand: EBM
• Material: Electromagnetic electric heating + 3-tier trays
• Ideal for: Suitable for large families or semi-professional use
• Price range: $450 – $750

4.2 Zojirushi Gourmet Electric Steamer

This steamer from Zojirushi, a well-known Japanese brand, belongs to the “Gourmet Food Steamer” line, typically with two steaming tiers. It is ideal for vegetables, seafood, eggs, and even rice. In real-world use, it is very convenient, with removable steaming trays for easy cleaning. If you want a modern Japanese steam cooker that is compact and functions reliably for everyday steaming, this is a great option. The trade-off is that it is more expensive and slightly larger than simpler steamers.

• Brand: Zojirushi
• Material: Electronic 2-tier 
• Ideal for: Suitable for small to medium households, users who steam often 
• Price range: $150 – $260

4.3 Tiger Electric Steamer & Cooker

This product from Tiger is a multi-functional cooker that combines steaming, rice cooking, and warming. For example, the Micom Rice Cooker & Steamer comes with a steaming tray included. In practice, it is very versatile: you can use it for steaming, cooking rice, or keeping food warm. 

For households looking for an all-in-one device with steaming capability, this is an excellent choice. If your only goal is dedicated steaming, some functions may be more than necessary.

• Brand: Tiger 
• Material: Electronic multi-function (steam + cook + warm) 
• Ideal for: Ideal for families wanting an all-in-one appliance 
• Price range: $120 – $220

5. Must-have ceramic or porcelain steamers from Japan

After exploring the versatility of electric and metal steamers, many home cooks look for a more traditional yet elegant option. Ceramic and porcelain steamers bring gentle, even heat that preserves the natural flavors and textures of your ingredients. They are not only functional but also add a touch of Japanese craftsmanship and aesthetic to your kitchen. 

Let’s explore some of the must-have ceramic and porcelain steamers from Japan that combine beauty and performance.

1. Miyawo Thermatech Ceramic Steamer Insert
2. Toceram Ceramic Casserole Pot with Steamer Insert 
3. Nagatanien Donabe Steamer “Mushi Nabe”

5.1 Miyawo Thermatech Ceramic Steamer Insert

The Miyawo Thermatech Ceramic Steamer Insert from Miyawo is an elegant companion for those who already own compatible cookware and want to add a high‑quality steamer function. It is designed to fit into a casserole or donabe pot (for example the “9‑Go” size version) and brings ceramic material benefits, such as gentle heat, even steaming and easy maintenance. 

In use I found it very convenient for daily vegetable or seafood steaming, and the ceramic build gave a smoother texture to food compared to typical metal trays. One caveat is that you still need a suitable pot to go with it, so it is best suited for someone already invested in ceramic cooking gear.

• Brand: Miyawo
• Material: Thermatech ceramic insert 
• Ideal for: Users who already own a casserole or donabe pot and want a high‑quality steamer accessory 
• Price range: $45 – $80

5.2 Toceram Ceramic Casserole Pot with Steamer Insert 

From Toceram (manufactured by Tohi Ceramics Co., Ltd. in Nagasaki), the ceramic casserole pot with steamer insert is a multifunctional tool: it allows grilling, boiling, steaming, simmering and more thanks to its heat‑resistant ceramic material and included steamer insert. In practice I found that once it was warmed up, it retained heat very well and steamed ingredients with excellent texture. The versatility is a big plus: you can use it for full meals rather than just steaming. 

However the weight and the cost are higher than simple inserts or baskets, so it may be best for those who value material and multifunction use.

• Brand: Toceram 
• Material: Heat‑resistant ceramic + steamer insert 
• Ideal for: Households that want a premium all‑in‑one pot for steaming and more 
• Price range: $130 – $230

5.3 Nagatanien Donabe Steamer “Mushi Nabe”

The “Mushi Nabe” Donabe Steamer by Nagatani‑en (an 8th‑generation kiln specialising in Iga‑ware) is a traditional yet efficient option for steaming. It utilises far‑infrared heat and a steam grate, part of the Iga‑yaki clay tradition, to cook ingredients quickly while preserving flavour and nutrients. 

In my experience, using this pot on a tabletop gas burner was a real experience: the steam was strong, the texture of vegetables crisp but cooked through, and the presentation very appealing. This style of interactive, table-side cooking feels closely related to a Japanese grill, where heat control, shared dining, and visual presentation play a central role in the meal.

• Brand: Nagatani‑en 
• Material: Iga‑yaki clay donabe pot with steam grate 
• Ideal for: Those who want a traditional Japanese steamer pot experience, table‑steam style meals 
• Price range: $180 – $350

Japanese steamers are more than just kitchen tools, they are a gateway to healthier, flavorful, and authentic cooking. From the natural elegance of bamboo baskets to the precision of electric steamers and the artisanal charm of ceramic or porcelain pots, each type offers unique benefits for every cooking style. Investing in a high-quality Japanese steamer allows you to prepare meals that retain nutrients, texture, and taste while bringing a touch of Japanese culinary tradition into your home.

FAQs- People also asked about Japanese steam cooker