The Best Local Meat-Based Dishes You Can Try in Japan

Japan is renowned for its diverse cuisine that varies significantly by region. Among its rich culinary offerings, meat-based dishes stand out for their unique flavors and regional ingredients. If you’re a meat lover visiting Japan, here are some of the best local meat-based dishes you should try.

1. Kobe Beef (Hyogo Prefecture)
Kobe beef is one of the most famous types of beef in the world, celebrated for its exceptional tenderness and rich marbling. Raised in the Hyogo Prefecture, this premium beef comes from Wagyu cattle that are meticulously bred and fed. Enjoy it as a steak, in shabu-shabu (hot pot), or even as a mouthwatering burger.

2. Yakiniku (Various Regions)
Yakiniku translates to "grilled meat," and it's an essential part of Japanese dining culture. Various regions offer their own twist on this dish, often featuring different meat cuts, marinades, and sauces. Dining at a yakiniku restaurant usually involves grilling your choice of meat at the table, making for a fun and interactive meal.

3. Gyu-tan (Sendai)
Sendai is famous for gyu-tan, or grilled beef tongue. This dish is prepared by marinating thin slices of tongue before grilling them to perfection. Often served with a side of rice and pickles, gyu-tan is a must-try for meat aficionados visiting the Tohoku region.

4. Sumo Chanko Nabe (Tokyo)
Chanko nabe is a hearty hot pot dish traditionally consumed by sumo wrestlers. Packed with various meats, vegetables, and tofu, this dish is a nutritious and filling option. Many restaurants in Tokyo serve their own version of chanko nabe, making it an excellent way to experience a unique aspect of Japanese culture.

5. Tonkatsu (Nationwide)
Tonkatsu, which consists of breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, is a beloved dish across Japan. Typically served with shredded cabbage and a tangy tonkatsu sauce, this dish is a comforting and satisfying meal. While you can find it just about anywhere, seeking out a specialized tonkatsu restaurant can elevate your experience.

6. Asado (Hokkaido)
In Hokkaido, you can find “asado,” a style of grilling meat that is heavily influenced by the Argentinian tradition. Often featuring lamb or beef, asado is cooked over an open flame, imparting a smoky flavor that is both savory and delicious. Enjoy it along with local vegetables for a truly delightful meal.

7. Yakiniku Don (Kagoshima)
This dish features grilled meat served over rice and is a popular choice in Kagoshima. The beef is usually marinated in a special sauce before grilling, and it’s served alongside fresh vegetables. The combination of tender meat and fluffy rice makes for a comforting meal that’s hard to resist.

8. Basashi (Kumamoto)
Basashi is raw horse meat, typically served as sashimi with soy sauce and garlic. This dish is especially popular in Kumamoto Prefecture. While it might not be for everyone, those who are adventurous enough to try it often find it surprisingly tender and flavorful.

9. Nikujaga (Nationwide)
Nikujaga is a home-cooked dish consisting of thinly sliced beef simmered with potatoes and onions in a sweet soy sauce broth. It’s a comfort food staple in Japan, providing warmth and flavor to meals. Often enjoyed as a weekday dinner, nikujaga exemplifies the simplicity and heartiness of Japanese cuisine.

10. Hida Beef (Takayama)
Hida beef comes from the Gifu Prefecture and is another variety of Wagyu known for its exceptional tenderness and flavor. This beef can be enjoyed grilled, in shabu-shabu, or as part of a luxurious kaiseki meal. Visiting Takayama is an excellent way to experience this regional delicacy.

Exploring Japan’s local meat-based dishes offers a delicious insight into its culinary culture. From the delicate flavors of Kobe beef to the hearty satisfaction of chanko nabe, each region provides a unique experience that highlights the country's rich agricultural heritage. Make sure to savor these amazing dishes on your next visit to Japan!