What is Hida Beef? — Gifu's Finest Wagyu
The renowned brand beef from Gifu Prefecture, "Hida Beef," captivates many with its tenderness and rich flavor.
Known for its top-grade marbling and juicy taste, it can be enjoyed in various dishes such as steaks, barbecue, sushi, and shabu-shabu.
This wagyu, raised in the pure air and clean waters of the Hida region, is highly acclaimed not only in Japan but also by gourmet enthusiasts overseas.
History and Characteristics of Hida Beef
1. History of Hida Beef
The roots of Hida Beef trace back to the 1960s.
It was developed into exquisite wagyu by Gifu farmers who carefully raised Tajima cattle introduced from Hyogo Prefecture, refining them over many years.
In 1988, it was branded as "Hida Beef," and today it receives top-class recognition nationwide.
2. Certification Standards of Hida Beef
To be certified as Hida Beef, stringent criteria must be met.
- It must be black-haired wagyu fattened for over 14 months in Gifu Prefecture.
- It must achieve a beef grade of "A5" or "A4" from the Japan Meat Grading Association.
Thanks to these strict standards, Hida Beef is consistently offered as high-quality wagyu.
3. Taste Characteristics of Hida Beef
The greatest allure of Hida Beef is its fine marbling and sweet fat.
One bite melts in your mouth, and the savory flavor spreads gently.
It is also known for its mild, elegant aroma and light, easy-to-eat fat.
Recommended Ways to Enjoy Hida Beef
Hida Beef can be enjoyed through various cooking methods.
Check out the popular ways to savor it and have the ultimate Hida Beef experience in Gifu!
1. Hida Beef Steak
A luxurious dish that allows you to savor the meat's flavor to the fullest with a simple cooking method.
The recommended doneness is medium-rare, and it tastes best with salt and wasabi, highlighting the meat's natural flavor.
2. Hida Beef Barbecue
Enjoyed by slowly grilling over charcoal.
The fat of Hida Beef melts, enhancing its savory and sweet flavors.
3. Hida Beef Sushi
"Hida Beef Nigiri Sushi" is very popular in restaurants in Takayama and Gifu!
Grilled Hida Beef placed on rice, seasoned with salt or sauce, makes for an exquisite sushi experience.
4. Hida Beef Shabu-Shabu
Thinly sliced Hida Beef lightly dipped in kombu broth offers a supreme taste.
It's traditionally eaten with ponzu or sesame sauce.
5. Hida Beef Croquettes
Crunchy croquettes filled with the condensed flavor of Hida Beef are also popular.
Highly recommended as a walking snack in Takayama!
Recommended Restaurants to Enjoy Hida Beef
1. Maruaki (Takayama)
A yakiniku restaurant specializing in Hida Beef. Enjoy high-quality Hida Beef at reasonable prices.
2. Kotteushi (Takayama)
A famous "Hida Beef Nigiri Sushi" shop located in the historic streets of a tourist spot. Their grilled sushi is divine!
3. Hida Takayama Teppanyaki Lindenbaum (Takayama)
A popular restaurant where you can enjoy Hida Beef steak on a teppanyaki grill.
4. Kitchen Hida (Takayama)
An establishment where you can enjoy Western-style dishes such as Hida Beef hamburgers and beef stew.
Where to Purchase Hida Beef? A Great Souvenir!
Hida Beef can be purchased at butcher shops within Gifu Prefecture and through online shops.
If you want to take Hida Beef home during your trip, choose vacuum-packed or frozen products.
Recommended Purchase Spots
- Hida Beef Specialty Store "Maruaki" (Takayama, Gifu City)
- Roadside Station "Hida Kaido Nagisa" (Hida City)
- JA Hida Direct Sales Store (Takayama)
Travel Tips for Visitors
1. Access to Hida Takayama
- From Tokyo: About 4 hours via Shinkansen to Nagoya and then Takayama Main Line
- From Osaka: About 3.5 hours using JR Shin-kaisoku and Limited Express Hida
- From Nagoya: About 2 hours on the Limited Express Hida
2. Best Season
Hida Beef can be enjoyed year-round, but shabu-shabu and sukiyaki during the cold autumn and winter months are exceptional!
3. Enjoy with Hida Takayama Sightseeing!
After enjoying Hida Beef, fully indulge in the charm of Gifu by visiting the historic streets of Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Gero Onsen!
FAQs and Summary
Summary
- Hida Beef is Gifu Prefecture's brand wagyu, certified only for the highest A5 and A4 grades.
- It can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, including steak, barbecue, sushi, and shabu-shabu.
- Experience authentic Hida Beef in Takayama and Gifu City!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between Hida Beef and other wagyu?
A: Hida Beef is noted for its fine marbling and sweet fat. It is said to have a better melt-in-the-mouth quality than other wagyu.
Q: Can I take Hida Beef home during my trip?
A: Vacuum-packed or frozen products can be taken home. Use a cooler bag to keep them fresh.
Q: Can Hida Beef be purchased overseas?
A: Some high-end wagyu stores carry it, but enjoying it on-site is highly recommended!
In Conclusion
Hida Beef is one of Japan's finest wagyu.
When visiting Gifu, be sure to indulge in authentic Hida Beef and enjoy a blissful time!
