What Is “Gutsu Gutsu”? The Japanese Sound of Simmering and Bubbling

Ever leaned over a pot of stew, watching bubbles rise one after another?

Or heard soup quietly boiling on the stove on a cold day?

That’s when the Japanese onomatopoeia “Gutsu Gutsu” (ぐつぐつ) comes in — the sound and feeling of simmering warmth and slow cooking.

Before we dive in, hear what it sounds like!

What is “Gutsu Gutsu” (ぐつぐつ)?

“Gutsu gutsu” describes the bubbling sound of something boiling or simmering, especially in cooking.
It gives a sense of gentle energy — warmth, rhythm, and the promise of deliciousness.

Used for:
Lava bubbling slowly in a volcano (figuratively!)
Soup or stew bubbling on the stove
Sauce simmering

Pronunciation

goo-tsu goo-tsu
(Repeat with a low, rounded tone — like small bubbles rising to the surface.)

Category

Sound

What Does “Gutsu Gutsu” Look Like?

It looks like small, round bubbles rising one after another.
Like steam curling from a pot.
Like a kitchen filled with cozy warmth.

How Do You Say It?

Say it softly, in rhythm with the bubbles:
Gutsu… gutsu…

Like a stew simmering patiently, never rushing!

Example in Daily Life

Example: Volcano rumbling

Deep beneath the mountain,
lava moved slowly —
gutsu gutsu…

Cultural Note

In Japanese kitchens, “gutsu gutsu” evokes comfort — home-cooked meals, warmth, and patience.

In English, you might say:
“Simmering,” “bubbling,” or “boiling gently.”

But “gutsu gutsu” adds that sound texture — you can almost hear the stew breathing.

Watch & Feel the “Gutsu Gutsu” World

Feel the Gutsu Gutsu — the stew simmering

Try Using It!

When your soup starts to bubble,
When your curry smells rich and deep —
Say it happily: Gutsu gutsu〜