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Japan’s New ”Best Steak” From The Historical Old Town: Hida Takayama

September 26, 2024

Move over, Kobe, Hida Steak is taking its new position at the top of the food chain as the best steak in Japan.

These cuts, taken from a black-haired Japanese cattle breed found only in Gifu Prefecture, are now being hailed as some of the most sought-after, breathing new life into the region and some of its most charming villages.

What’s so special about Hida Beef? Its most distinguishing characteristics that are celebrated are its marbling, luster, color, texture and smell- all of which depend on both farming techniques and genetic makeup of the cattle. The intense marbling appears on the shoulder, flank and round cuts and coats the meat, preventing the juice from escaping, thus resulting in a tender bite that melts in one’s mouth and makes it one of the most desirable dishes in all of Japan.

Hida Beef must undergo a strict evaluation process and secure a Yield Score of Grade A or B by the Hida Beef Brand Promotion Conference and must also be graded and authorized on its texture and firmness by the Japan Meat Grading Association. It took the top prize at the 8th National Competitive Exhibition of Japanese Beef, often referred to as the “Olympics of Japanese Beef”.

Hida Beef originates from Hida Takayama, a base for alpine-style adventure and wondrous foodie immersions. In addition to its luxe culinary experience, Hida Takayama is also celebrated for its historic old town, one of the largest and best-preserved historical houses dating back to the 1600s. Just a short 15-minute walk from Takayama Station, Takayama Old Town boasts a vibrant array of shops, eateries, cafes, and traditional sake breweries, offering visitors plenty to discover. Be sure to visit the oldest in the area, Hirase Sake Brewery, and sample their signature brand, “Kusudama”. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll through the Miyagawa Morning Markets to explore local produce and traditional crafts—a perfect opportunity to connect with the local community.

For an unforgettable stay in Takayama Old Town, the historic luxury accommodation, Taniya, offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying absolute privacy for you and your family. This two-story residence, once the home of a wealthy merchant in the Edo Period, is now a designated National Historic Site. Taniya showcases magnificent architecture, featuring intricate carpentry techniques passed down through generations in the Takayama region, complemented by unique décor, traditional furnishings and a true sense of ryokan hospitality. Guests here can hire a private chef to prepare Hida Beef to their precise wishes in its fully equipped designer kitchen.

Beyond this, visitors to Hida Takayama are spoiled for choice for opportunities to taste these delectable morsels and decide for themselves how Hida Beef stacks up against the competition.