What is Gifu’s local dish “Kei-chan”?
**“Kei-chan (keichan)”** is a local dish enjoyed in the Hida and Oku-Mino regions of Gifu Prefecture.
Seasoned chicken and vegetables are grilled on a teppan (iron plate) or in a frying pan and eaten piping hot — a simple yet superb local comfort food.
For Gifu residents it’s a staple home-cooked dish, and you can also find it at izakaya and specialty restaurants.
If you visit on a trip, be sure to try the authentic “Kei-chan”!
History and origins of Kei-chan
The roots of Kei-chan go back to the food shortages after World War II.
In Gifu’s mountain areas there has long been a culture of raising chickens, and there was a particular custom of eating spent hens (hens that had finished laying).
To make these hens tasty, people began marinating them in miso or soy sauce and then grilling them.
Since then, each household and restaurant has added its own twists, and today you can enjoy many different flavor variations of Kei-chan.
Characteristics and appeal of Kei-chan
1. Rich, bold seasoning
The biggest characteristic of Kei-chan is its robust seasoning.
Chicken marinated in a miso-based or soy-based sauce becomes fragrant when grilled and pairs perfectly with rice or alcoholic drinks.
2. Packed with vegetables and healthy
When stir-fried with vegetables like cabbage, onions, and bean sprouts, it becomes a well-balanced dish.
It’s filling yet can be enjoyed in a relatively healthy way.
3. Highly customizable!
- Classic miso flavor
- Simple soy-based seasoning
- Spicy variations or garlic-flavored
- Creative versions with curry flavor or added cheese!
With different flavors at each restaurant, comparing tastes is part of the fun.
How to make Kei-chan
One of Kei-chan’s charms is that it’s easy to make at home!
Here’s a recipe that recreates the authentic flavor.
Ingredients (for 2 people)
- Chicken thigh … 300g (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Cabbage … 1/4 head (roughly chopped)
- Onion … 1/2 (thinly sliced)
- Garlic … 1 clove (grated)
- Cooking oil … as needed
＜Sauce ingredients＞
- Miso … 3 tbsp
- Soy sauce … 1 tbsp
- Mirin … 1 tbsp
- Sugar … 1 tbsp
- Sake … 2 tbsp
- Sesame oil … 1 tbsp
- Shichimi (Japanese seven-spice) … to taste
Directions
- Marinate the chicken in the sauce (letting it sit for about 30 minutes helps the flavor penetrate)
- Heat oil in a frying pan and cook the chicken
- Add cabbage and onion and continue to stir-fry
- When everything is cooked through, it’s ready!
Recommended places to eat Kei-chan
1. Minamichan (Gifu City)
An established Kei-chan specialty restaurant in Gifu City.
The miso sauce is superb, and the place is beloved by locals.
2. Michi-no-Eki Meihou (Gujo City)
You can easily enjoy Kei-chan at the roadside station’s restaurant.
The souvenir shop also sells Kei-chan and local specialties.
3. Izakaya Hiro (Takayama City)
Enjoy local-style Kei-chan in Hida Takayama.
It’s recommended to pair it with sake!
Enjoy Gifu sightseeing and Kei-chan!
1. Hida Takayama
The historic streets are beautiful, and there are plenty of snacks for walking around!
After trying Kei-chan, you can also enjoy Takayama ramen and Hida beef.
2. Shirakawa-go
A village of gassho-zukuri farmhouses registered as a World Heritage site.
The winter snow scenery is spectacular — perfect for enjoying local dishes.
3. Gujo Hachiman
Famous for the Gujo Odori, one of Japan’s three major Bon dances.
It’s also recommended to stroll the town and enjoy Kei-chan.
Useful information for travelers
1. Access information
- Shops near Gifu Station: About 20 minutes by JR from Nagoya Station
- Shops in Gujo City: About 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Nagoya
- Shops in Hida Takayama: About 2 hours by limited express from Nagoya
2. Takeout and souvenirs
Vacuum-packed Kei-chan can be purchased at roadside stations and supermarkets!
You can recreate Gifu’s flavors at home.
FAQ and summary
Summary
- Kei-chan is a local dish from Gifu characterized by miso- or soy-based seasoning.
- It’s simple to make by stir-frying chicken and vegetables.
- Flavors vary by shop, so tasting different versions is fun!
- It’s a recommended local dish to enjoy along with Gifu sightseeing.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Where can I eat Kei-chan?
A: It’s served at izakaya, specialty restaurants, and roadside stations throughout Gifu Prefecture.
Q: What does Kei-chan taste like?
A: It has a rich flavor seasoned with miso or soy sauce, and goes well with rice and beer.
Q: Can vegetarians eat Kei-chan?
A: Since it’s a chicken dish, it’s generally not suitable for vegetarians.
Q: Where can I buy Kei-chan as a souvenir?
A: You can buy it at supermarkets and roadside stations in Gifu. Frozen and vacuum-packed versions are popular.
Finally
Gifu Prefecture’s local dish “Kei-chan” is simple yet deeply flavorful!
When you travel there, be sure to enjoy the authentic taste.
Tasting local food culture will make your trip even more memorable.
