Gourmet Delights of Yamanashi Prefecture

Yamanashi Prefecture is known for its diverse cuisine, which makes the most of the region’s abundant natural resources and deep-rooted traditions. Being an inland area surrounded by mountains, Yamanashi’s local dishes often feature ingredients from the mountains and clear streams. The local foods and dishes that have been cherished by the residents for generations are packed with the unique charm of Yamanashi.

Here, we introduce three carefully selected gourmet dishes: Hōtō, Kōshū Wine Beef, and Yoshida Udon.

We hope this information will be helpful when you visit Yamanashi Prefecture.

Three Must-Try Gourmet Dishes in Yamanashi Prefecture

1. Hōtō

　● The Appeal of Hōtō

Hōtō is a traditional dish representing Yamanashi Prefecture, known for its various appealing aspects. This dish features thick, flat noodles made from wheat flour, cooked together with plenty of vegetables like pumpkin, taro, and mushrooms in a miso-based broth. This nutritious dish is particularly popular during the colder seasons, as it warms the body.

The key characteristics of Hōtō are the chewy texture of the noodles and the rich, deep flavor of the miso-based soup. Miso, a specialty of Yamanashi, is often homemade or unique to each restaurant, which adds a distinct flavor to the dish.

　● The History of Hōtō

Hōtō is well-known as one of the most representative local dishes of Yamanashi Prefecture. The origins of Hōtō are subject to various theories, with the most famous one tracing back to the Sengoku period (Warring States period) of Japan.

According to legend, Hōtō is associated with the famous warlord Takeda Shingen. It is said that Shingen provided Hōtō to his soldiers during campaigns because it was highly nutritious and filling. The dish became known as "Shingen Hōtō" because of its association with him.

　● Where to Eat Hōtō

Restaurant: Hōtō Kura Funari Kawaguchiko Branch
Appeal:
"Hōtō Kura Funari," located in Kawaguchiko, has been recognized as the best place to enjoy Hōtō in Yamanashi for three consecutive years and has now entered the hall of fame. Their specialty, "Golden Hōtō," is unforgettable, with its creamy, golden-colored soup. The base of the soup is a special golden miso mixed with pumpkin puree, combined with abalone paste and a natural, additive-free dashi broth, creating a deep, rich flavor.
Access: About a 25-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyuko Line.
Address: 6931 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture
Google Maps：https://maps.app.goo.gl/Xuv8nahRZm4tMJD1A

2. Yoshida Udon

　● The Appeal of Yoshida Udon

Yoshida Udon is a traditional dish from the Fujiyoshida area in Yamanashi Prefecture, known for its exceptionally firm and chewy texture. The typical ingredients include cabbage, daikon radish, green onions, and horse meat, though the toppings and ingredients can vary depending on the restaurant.

The defining characteristic of Yoshida Udon is its strong chewiness, much firmer than standard udon noodles. This firm texture is achieved by kneading in local yam and potato starch, in addition to wheat flour and water. The unique texture is further enhanced by the handmade process used to create the noodles.

　● The History of Yoshida Udon

The exact origins of Yoshida Udon are unclear due to a lack of precise historical records, but it is believed that the dish has been enjoyed locally since the Edo period. Located at the northern base of Mount Fuji, Fujiyoshida has long been blessed with abundant water and a thriving agricultural industry. As a result, wheat—the primary ingredient of udon—was grown locally, and udon culture naturally took root in the region.

　● Where to Eat Yoshida Udon

Restaurant: Menkyo Kaiden
Appeal:
This popular restaurant often has a line forming as soon as it opens. The springy, chewy noodles, combined with a broth that perfectly balances miso and soy sauce, create a harmonious flavor. The "suridane" (a spicy seasoning) adds a subtle sesame oil aroma that enhances the overall depth of the dish without overwhelming it. Popular toppings like seasoned eggs and tempura are known to sell out quickly, so an early visit is recommended.
Address: 1-4-58 Kamiyoshida Higashi, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture 403-0032
Access: About an 11-minute walk from Fujisan Station on the Fujikyu Railway Line
Google Maps : https://maps.app.goo.gl/tyQqv9XEQvkLAA1S

3. Koshu Wine Beef

　● The Appeal of Koshu Wine Beef

Koshu Wine Beef is a brand of beef produced in Yamanashi Prefecture, where the cattle are fed on grape pomace—a byproduct of wine production. This unique beef, rooted in Yamanashi’s renowned wine region, boasts a distinct flavor and richness that sets it apart from traditional Wagyu beef.

The addition of grape pomace to the cattle's diet enhances the beef’s flavor, imparting a deep richness that is not found in regular beef. The special feed results in finely marbled fat, giving the meat a sweet taste with a subtle, fruity aroma derived from the wine.

　● The History of Koshu Wine Beef

The history of Koshu Wine Beef is relatively recent, dating back to the late 20th century. Yamanashi Prefecture, known as one of Japan’s leading wine regions, saw an opportunity to utilize the grape pomace left over from wine production. This initiative led to the creation of Koshu Wine Beef.

In the 1980s, some livestock farmers in Yamanashi began experimenting with feeding cattle the grape pomace produced during the winemaking process. Amidst the growing competition among Japan's premium beef brands, the idea of developing a beef brand closely associated with wine was born.

　● Where to Eat Koshu Wine Beef

Restaurant: Keith Spring
Appeal:
Keith Spring is a renowned steakhouse where you can savor Koshu Wine Beef. The warm, wooden exterior invites you in, and as you step inside, the luxurious ambiance of the second floor enhances the overall dining experience. The restaurant is particularly famous for its tender and juicy cuts, such as filet, chuck flap, and ribeye steaks made from Koshu Wine Beef. These steaks are praised for their exceptional smoothness and flavor, rivaling other premium Japanese beef like Kobe and Omi beef in the same price range.
Address: 10287-4 Kobuchisawacho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Access: 2.6 km from Kobuchizawa Station
Google Maps：https://maps.app.goo.gl/yem3hotGvJvxDF3h9

Three Must-Try Gourmet Dishes in Yamanashi Prefecture (Local Specialties and Traditional Dishes)