Hida-Gyu or Hida Beef is the name given to the beef that comes from the Japanese black-haired cattle breed that has been raised.
Hida beef, or Hida-gyu, is a premium beef from the Japanese black-haired cattle breed, raised in Gifu Prefecture for at least 14 months. It is renowned for its fine marbling and must meet rigorous quality standards, including yield and texture grades, as verified by Japan’s Meat Grading Association. Originating in 1981 with a bull named Yasufuku, Hida beef has become a prestigious brand through controlled breeding, feeding, and care, coupled with the region's optimal environmental conditions. The meat's tenderness and umami are celebrated in various dishes, from steaks to sukiyaki and shabu-shabu. Several restaurants in the Takayama area offer authentic Hida beef experiences, ranging from traditional Japanese preparations to innovative uses like Hida Beef hamburgers and sushi. These dining spots often attract long waits due to their reputation for serving high-quality, melt-in-your-mouth beef delicacies. Hida beef is part of Japan's rich beef heritage, alongside other esteemed varieties like Matsusaka, Omi, and Yonezawa beefs.