The Best Meat-Based Foods to Try in Japan’s Rural Areas

Japan is renowned for its rich culinary culture, and while the bustling cities often take the spotlight, the rural areas offer unique meat-based delicacies that are equally tantalizing. If you’re planning a trip to Japan’s countryside, here are some of the best meat-based foods you should try.

1. Hida Beef
Hida Beef is a premium wagyu from the Gifu Prefecture. Known for its tender, marbled texture, this beef is often enjoyed as steaks, sashimi, or grilled on a teppanyaki grill. Be sure to visit a local restaurant that specializes in Hida Beef to savor its rich flavor surrounded by the natural beauty of the Japanese countryside.

2. Yakitori
This popular skewered chicken dish is widely enjoyed across Japan, but rural izakayas (Japanese pubs) often add their own twist by using locally sourced chickens. The tender meat is grilled to perfection and seasoned with salt or a savory tare sauce. Enjoying freshly grilled yakitori in a local izakaya creates an authentic dining experience unique to Japan’s rural scenery.

3. Kumamoto Basashi
Basashi is a delicacy of raw horse meat, particularly popular in Kumamoto Prefecture. Served as sashimi with soy sauce and garlic, this dish is a must-try for adventurous eaters. Basashi is often accompanied by fresh vegetables and sake, making for a unique tasting experience that reflects the region’s traditions.

4. Shio Ramen with Pork Chashu
In rural towns, ramen shops often pride themselves on using local ingredients. Shio ramen, a salt-flavored noodle soup, is particularly popular, especially when topped with tender pork chashu. The combination of rich broth and melt-in-your-mouth pork brings comfort to diners seeking a hearty meal after a day of exploring.

5. Tottori Beef
Tottori Prefecture is famous for its high-quality beef, often regarded as one of the top varieties in Japan. The cattle are raised in a stress-free environment, resulting in incredibly tender meat. Enjoy Tottori beef as a grilled dish, in sukiyaki, or as part of a shabu-shabu meal to appreciate its exquisite flavor and texture.

6. Sasakama
Though not exclusively meat, sasakama is a fish sausage that showcases local seafood combined with meat for a unique flavor. Made primarily from cod and sometimes combined with pork, this delicacy is often steamed and served as a snack or appetizer. Found in rural seaside towns, it’s a perfect representation of Japan’s coastal culinary resources.

7. Goya Chanpuru with Pork
This stir-fry dish hails from Okinawa and features goya (bitter melon) and pork. The combination of flavors highlights local ingredients and provides a nutritious option that’s both delicious and filling. Often served with rice, Goya Chanpuru exemplifies the hearty meals popular in rural Japanese homes.

8. Miso Katsu
This twist on traditional katsu originates from the Aichi Prefecture, where tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlet) is smothered in a delicious miso-based sauce. The richness of the miso complements the crispy pork, creating a flavorful, satisfying dish that tourists cannot miss when exploring this region.

When venturing into the rural regions of Japan, don't miss the chance to indulge in these meat-based delights. Each dish tells a story of local culture and tradition, ensuring a culinary experience that’s as memorable as the stunning landscapes. From premium beef to distinctive regional specialties, Japan’s countryside has something for every meat lover to enjoy.