About Gifu's Food

Gifu Prefecture's food is characterized by a diverse array of dishes that make use of the region's rich natural environment and traditions. Being an inland prefecture surrounded by mountains, Gifu offers many local dishes that feature mountain and river ingredients. The food that has been cherished by the locals is full of unique charms that can only be found in Gifu. Some of the must-try foods in Gifu include Hida beef, Hoba miso, and Keichan.

I hope this information will be useful when you visit Gifu Prefecture.

Gifu’s Selected Foods: Top 3 Picks

1. Hida Beef

　● The Appeal of Hida Beef

Hida beef is one of Japan's most prestigious wagyu brands, known for its exceptionally high quality. To be certified as Hida beef, the cattle must be of the Japanese Black breed, raised in Gifu Prefecture for at least 14 months. Additionally, the meat quality grade must be 3 or higher. The distinctive marbling of Hida beef, with fine, evenly distributed fat, gives the meat its unique tenderness and rich flavor. This marbling melts in your mouth, releasing a burst of savory umami, making it particularly popular for dishes like yakiniku (grilled meat) and steak.

The pure water flowing from the high mountains where the cattle are raised, the seasonal temperature variations, and the clean air create an ideal environment for raising Hida beef.

　● The History of Hida Beef

The origins of Hida beef trace back to the Japanese Black cattle raised in Gifu Prefecture, a breed renowned as one of the finest in Japan. To be recognized as Hida beef, the cattle must be born and raised in Gifu, with a meat quality grade of A5 or A4, the highest ranks. Meeting these rigorous standards ensures that Hida beef features a rich marbling that melts in your mouth, providing an unparalleled dining experience.

The branding of Hida beef began in earnest during the Showa era. Particularly in the 1960s and 70s, Gifu Prefecture implemented advanced breeding techniques and selection processes to improve the quality of its wagyu. As a result, Hida beef has since gained high acclaim both domestically and internationally.

　● Where to Enjoy Hida Beef

Restaurant Name: Mingei Shokujidokoro Suzuya
Attraction:
Suzuya is a dining establishment known for its elegant atmosphere, inspired by the traditional architectural style of Hida Takayama. The restaurant specializes in serving traditional local dishes featuring seasonal mountain and river ingredients from the Hida Takayama region. A must-try dish is the "Hoba Miso Steak," which uses homemade miso combined with sesame oil, sake, and sugar to create a slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the tender Hida beef. The dish is prepared by grilling the beef with leeks and mushrooms, and the enticing aroma of the grilled miso makes it an unforgettable culinary experience.
Access: About a 6-minute walk from Takayama Station
Address: 24 Hanakawa-cho, Takayama, Gifu Prefecture
Google Maps：https://maps.app.goo.gl/KbAstVCwddPbRZU99

2. Takayama Ramen

　● The Appeal of Takayama Ramen

Takayama Ramen is a beloved local specialty that has been cherished for generations, with many historic ramen shops in the area. One of its greatest attractions is the simple yet deeply flavorful soy sauce-based broth. The broth is made by extracting dashi from chicken bones and seafood, then adding soy sauce to create a clear brown soup.

The noodles are characterized by their medium-thin, curly texture. These noodles hold the broth well, allowing the full flavor of the soup to be savored with every bite. Many of the noodles are handmade, giving them a unique texture and taste.

　● The History of Takayama Ramen

The origins of Takayama Ramen date back to the early Showa period. It began under the influence of Chinese cuisine. After World War II, Chinese restaurants spread across Japan, and with them, ramen culture flourished. In Takayama, a unique ramen culture developed that was well-suited to the local ingredients and climate, eventually becoming established as Takayama Ramen.

　● Where to Enjoy Takayama Ramen

Restaurant Name: Menya Shirakawa
Attraction:
Located in Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, this popular ramen shop is famous for its long lines of customers every day. Loved by both tourists and locals alike, this renowned shop serves "Chuka Soba," featuring a broth that has been simmered for 10 hours. The deep, rich flavor of the broth, made from bonito and chicken bones, is truly satisfying and never gets old, no matter how many times you enjoy it.
Address: 56-2 Aioi-cho, Takayama, Gifu Prefecture
Access: About an 8-minute walk from JR Takayama Main Line Takayama Station (East Exit)
Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/nwUdhKEUQ8aSgAoq6

3. Keichan

　● The Appeal of Keichan

Keichan is a beloved local dish of Gifu Prefecture, particularly popular in the Hida and Oku-Mino regions. This dish features chicken marinated in miso or soy sauce, which is then stir-fried on a hot plate with vegetables like cabbage and onions. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that is commonly served as a home-cooked meal, as well as in izakayas (Japanese pubs) and set meal restaurants. The ease of preparation and the rich taste have made it a favorite among many people.

The chicken used is often fresh and locally sourced. Gifu Prefecture is known for its poultry production, with local brands such as "Mino Jidori" and "Oku-Mino Koji Dori" frequently used in Keichan.

　● The History of Keichan

The origins of Keichan date back to the post-war period during times of food scarcity. The dish is closely linked to the poultry farming industry in the Hida region and Gujo City of Gifu Prefecture. It was originally devised as a way to make the most of surplus chicken meat, becoming a popular, easy-to-make dish in local households. The use of miso or soy sauce for seasoning also reflects the traditional food preservation practices of the region.

　● Where to Enjoy Keichan

Restaurant Name: Maruhachi Shokudo
Attraction:
Known as the birthplace of Keichan, this historic eatery offers a traditional taste of this local specialty. At Maruhachi Shokudo, you can savor the authentic flavor of Keichan, where chicken marinated in miso or soy sauce is grilled together with vegetables like cabbage and onions. This beloved local dish is a must-try for anyone visiting the area. Although the restaurant is popular and often has long lines, especially on weekdays, you might be lucky enough to get a seat right away.
Address: 139-1 Mukaiano, Gero City, Gifu Prefecture
Google Maps：https://maps.app.goo.gl/jxjqgGPHnny26QvH6

Three Must-Try Local Foods in Gifu Prefecture (Famous Specialties and Traditional Dishes You Can’t Miss)